How AI Engineers in Tennessee get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Tennessee compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $124,400 | $94,500 | $161,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $154,600 | $117,500 | $201,000 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $177,800 | $135,100 | $231,100 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $213,300 | $162,100 | $277,300 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $241,800 | $183,700 | $314,200 |
Pay varies sharply within Tennessee. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Tennessee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $187,200 | $142,300 | $243,400 | +5% |
Top occupations by median pay in Tennessee — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Tennessee
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average AI Engineer salary in Tennessee is $177,800 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $135,100 and the 75th at $231,100.
Pay-wise, Tennessee sits -10% below the national AI Engineer median ($197,500). Wages run below the national median, but cost of living is often correspondingly lower; net purchasing power may be similar to higher-paying states.
Senior AI Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in Tennessee earn around $213,300 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $241,800 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Tennessee ranks 33rd for AI Engineer pay. The highest-paying state pays around $345,700 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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