How to Become a Architectural and Civil Drafters in Tennessee
Architectural and Civil Drafters in Tennessee earn a median salary of $64,980/year, which is 1% above the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a architectural and civil drafters takes home approximately $3,096/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a architectural and civil drafters can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a architectural and civil drafters in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Architectural and Civil Drafters positions in Tennessee typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many architectural and civil drafters positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for architectural and civil drafterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 1,410 architectural and civil drafters. The highest concentrations are in Knoxville and Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin.
Architectural and Civil Drafters salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knoxville | $70K | $33.79/hr | 250 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $68K | $32.46/hr | 520 |
| Memphis | $63K | $30.42/hr | 250 |
| Johnson City | $61K | $29.4/hr | 50 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $61K | $29.14/hr | 40 |
| Clarksville | $50K | $24.25/hr | 40 |
| Chattanooga | $48K | $23.06/hr | 190 |
Architectural and Civil Drafters salary range in Tennessee
Architectural and Civil Drafters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a architectural and civil drafters make in Tennessee?▼
The median architectural and civil drafters salary in Tennessee is $64,980 per year ($31.24/hr). This is 1% above the national median of $64,280. Salaries range from $41,500 to $93,260.
What are the requirements to become a architectural and civil drafters in Tennessee?▼
Architectural and Civil Drafters positions in Tennessee typically require Bachelor's degree. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a architectural and civil drafters afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $64,980, a architectural and civil drafters in Tennessee would take home approximately $4,508/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 31.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for architectural and civil drafters in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for architectural and civil drafters in Tennessee are Knoxville ($70,270), Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($67,520), Memphis ($63,270). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for architectural and civil drafters?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means architectural and civil drafters keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.