Healthcare HQs (HCA), music, tech relocation. Here's how Database Administrator (DBA)s 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) | $78,100 | $59,300 | $101,500 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $97,000 | $73,700 | $126,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $111,600 | $84,800 | $145,000 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $133,900 | $101,700 | $174,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $151,700 | $115,300 | $197,200 |
Highest-paying metros for Database Administrator (DBA)s — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Nashville metro economy.
The average Database Administrator (DBA) salary in the Nashville metro is $111,600 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $84,800 to $145,000 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $184,100 or more.
Yes — Nashville pays +5% relative to the Tennessee state median for Database Administrator (DBA)s. 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 Database Administrator (DBA)s. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Nashville, the median Database Administrator (DBA) salary of $111,600 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Database Administrator (DBA)s in Nashville start around $78,100, while seniors (10+ years) reach $133,900 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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