How Veterinarians 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) | $84,700 | $64,300 | $110,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $105,300 | $80,000 | $136,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $121,100 | $92,000 | $157,400 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $145,300 | $110,400 | $188,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $164,600 | $125,100 | $214,000 |
Pay varies sharply within Tennessee. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Tennessee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $127,500 | $96,900 | $165,800 | +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 Veterinarian salary in Tennessee is $121,100 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $92,000 and the 75th at $157,400.
Pay-wise, Tennessee sits -10% below the national Veterinarian median ($134,500). 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 Veterinarians (10–14 years of experience) in Tennessee earn around $145,300 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $164,600 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Tennessee ranks 33rd for Veterinarian pay. The highest-paying state pays around $188,300 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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