Waiter and Waitress Salary in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee · 12.0% below national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $26,986 | -5.0% | High |
| Memphis | $23,861 | -16.0% | High |
Tennessee is home to a strong job market for Waiter and Waitresss. The state's key industries — Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $28,406 per year, Tennessee's Waiter and Waitress 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 $19,254–$24,886, while experienced Waiter and Waitresss can command $37,558–$42,326.
Looking ahead, the Waiter and Waitress profession in Tennessee is projected to grow at 3.0% 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 Waiter and Waitress salary in Tennessee?The average Waiter and Waitress salary in Tennessee is $28,406 per year in 2026, which is 12.0% below the national average of $32,280.
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What city in Tennessee pays Waiter and Waitresss the most?Major metro areas typically pay Waiter and Waitresss 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 Waiter and Waitresss?Tennessee has a strong job market with major industries in Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism. This makes it one of the better states for Waiter and Waitress employment.
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How does Tennessee Waiter and Waitress salary compare to the US average?At $28,406/year, Tennessee Waiter and Waitress salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average of $32,280/year.