Healthcare HQs (HCA), music, tech relocation. Here's how Chemical Engineers in Nashville get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Nashville metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $83,000 | $63,100 | $108,000 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $103,200 | $78,400 | $134,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $118,700 | $90,200 | $154,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $142,400 | $108,200 | $185,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $161,400 | $122,600 | $209,800 |
Highest-paying metros for Chemical Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Nashville metro economy.
The average Chemical Engineer salary in the Nashville metro is $118,700 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $90,200 to $154,300 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $195,800 or more.
Yes — Nashville pays +5% relative to the Tennessee state median for Chemical Engineers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Nashville vs. national: -5%. Nashville pays roughly in line with the national average for Chemical Engineers. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Nashville, the median Chemical Engineer salary of $118,700 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Chemical Engineers in Nashville start around $83,000, while seniors (10+ years) reach $142,400 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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