How Machine Learning Engineers in Tennessee get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Tennessee compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $113,800 | $86,500 | $147,900 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $141,400 | $107,500 | $183,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $162,600 | $123,600 | $211,400 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $195,100 | $148,300 | $253,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $221,100 | $168,000 | $287,500 |
Pay varies sharply within Tennessee. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Tennessee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $171,300 | $130,200 | $222,700 | +5% |
Top occupations by median pay in Tennessee — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Tennessee
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Machine Learning Engineer salary in Tennessee is $162,600 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $123,600 and the 75th at $211,400.
Pay-wise, Tennessee sits -10% below the national Machine Learning Engineer median ($180,700). Wages run below the national median, but cost of living is often correspondingly lower; net purchasing power may be similar to higher-paying states.
Senior Machine Learning Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in Tennessee earn around $195,100 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $221,100 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Tennessee ranks 33rd for Machine Learning Engineer pay. The highest-paying state pays around $298,200 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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