Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee · 12.0% below national average · Very High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $42,034 | -5.0% | Very High |
| Memphis | $37,167 | -16.0% | Very High |
Tennessee is home to a strong job market for Substance Abuse Counselors. The state's key industries — Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $44,246 per year, Tennessee's Substance Abuse Counselor salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average.
The cost of living in Tennessee (index: 0.88) makes salaries stretch further than in higher-cost states. Entry-level professionals in Tennessee can expect to earn $29,754–$37,611, while experienced Substance Abuse Counselors can command $55,289–$61,708.
Looking ahead, the Substance Abuse Counselor profession in Tennessee is projected to grow at 5.8% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Healthcare continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Substance Abuse Counselor salary in Tennessee?The average Substance Abuse Counselor salary in Tennessee is $44,246 per year in 2026, which is 12.0% below the national average of $50,280.
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What city in Tennessee pays Substance Abuse Counselors the most?Major metro areas typically pay Substance Abuse Counselors the highest wages in Tennessee due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is Tennessee a good state for Substance Abuse Counselors?Tennessee has a strong job market with major industries in Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism. This makes it one of the better states for Substance Abuse Counselor employment.
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How does Tennessee Substance Abuse Counselor salary compare to the US average?At $44,246/year, Tennessee Substance Abuse Counselor salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average of $50,280/year.