Healthcare HQs (HCA), music, tech relocation. Here's how Petroleum 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) | $104,100 | $79,100 | $135,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $129,400 | $98,300 | $168,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $148,800 | $113,100 | $193,500 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $178,500 | $135,700 | $232,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $202,300 | $153,800 | $263,100 |
Highest-paying metros for Petroleum Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Nashville metro economy.
The average Petroleum Engineer salary in the Nashville metro is $148,800 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $113,100 to $193,500 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $245,600 or more.
Yes — Nashville pays +5% relative to the Tennessee state median for Petroleum 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 Petroleum Engineers. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Nashville, the median Petroleum Engineer salary of $148,800 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Petroleum Engineers in Nashville start around $104,100, while seniors (10+ years) reach $178,500 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 →