Healthcare HQs (HCA), music, tech relocation. Here's how Data 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) | $98,900 | $75,200 | $128,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $123,000 | $93,500 | $159,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $141,400 | $107,500 | $183,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $169,600 | $129,000 | $220,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $192,300 | $146,200 | $250,100 |
Highest-paying metros for Data Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Nashville metro economy.
The average Data Engineer salary in the Nashville metro is $141,400 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $107,500 to $183,900 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $233,400 or more.
Yes — Nashville pays +5% relative to the Tennessee state median for Data 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 Data Engineers. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Nashville, the median Data Engineer salary of $141,400 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Data Engineers in Nashville start around $98,900, while seniors (10+ years) reach $169,600 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.
Get my personal salary report →