Healthcare HQs (HCA), music, tech relocation. Here's how Surgeons 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) | $278,000 | $211,200 | $361,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $345,500 | $262,500 | $449,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $397,200 | $301,800 | $516,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $476,600 | $362,100 | $619,500 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $540,100 | $410,400 | $702,100 |
Highest-paying metros for Surgeons — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Nashville metro economy.
The average Surgeon salary in the Nashville metro is $397,200 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $301,800 to $516,300 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $655,300 or more.
Yes — Nashville pays +5% relative to the Tennessee state median for Surgeons. 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 Surgeons. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Nashville, the median Surgeon salary of $397,200 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Surgeons in Nashville start around $278,000, while seniors (10+ years) reach $476,600 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 →