Healthcare HQs (HCA), music, tech relocation. Here's how Graphic Designers 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) | $43,200 | $32,800 | $56,200 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $53,700 | $40,800 | $69,800 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $61,800 | $46,900 | $80,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $74,100 | $56,200 | $96,300 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $84,000 | $63,700 | $109,200 |
Highest-paying metros for Graphic Designers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Nashville metro economy.
The average Graphic Designer salary in the Nashville metro is $61,800 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $46,900 to $80,300 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $101,900 or more.
Yes — Nashville pays +5% relative to the Tennessee state median for Graphic Designers. 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 Graphic Designers. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Nashville, the median Graphic Designer salary of $61,800 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Graphic Designers in Nashville start around $43,200, while seniors (10+ years) reach $74,100 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 →