Healthcare HQs (HCA), music, tech relocation. Here's how College Professors 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) | $77,400 | $58,900 | $100,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $96,300 | $73,200 | $125,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $110,700 | $84,200 | $144,000 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $132,800 | $101,000 | $172,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $150,500 | $114,500 | $195,800 |
Highest-paying metros for College Professors — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Nashville metro economy.
The average College Professor salary in the Nashville metro is $110,700 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $84,200 to $144,000 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $182,700 or more.
Yes — Nashville pays +5% relative to the Tennessee state median for College Professors. 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 College Professors. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Nashville, the median College Professor salary of $110,700 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level College Professors in Nashville start around $77,400, while seniors (10+ years) reach $132,800 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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