How to Become a Cost Estimators in Tennessee
Cost Estimators in Tennessee earn a median salary of $74,570/year, which is 3% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a cost estimators takes home approximately $3,659/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a cost estimators can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a cost estimators in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Cost Estimators 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 cost estimators 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 cost estimatorss. 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 3,830 cost estimators. The highest concentrations are in Kingsport-Bristol and Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin.
Cost Estimators salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kingsport-Bristol | $82K | $39.54/hr | 220 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $79K | $37.99/hr | 1,350 |
| Memphis | $77K | $36.82/hr | 600 |
| Cleveland | $76K | $36.64/hr | 60 |
| Chattanooga | $70K | $33.81/hr | 360 |
| Knoxville | $70K | $33.62/hr | 510 |
| Jackson | $67K | $31.98/hr | 100 |
| Clarksville | $65K | $31.13/hr | 70 |
| Johnson City | $64K | $30.95/hr | 60 |
| Morristown | $63K | $30.42/hr | 40 |
Cost Estimators salary range in Tennessee
Cost Estimators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cost estimators make in Tennessee?▼
The median cost estimators salary in Tennessee is $74,570 per year ($35.85/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $77,070. Salaries range from $46,540 to $114,550.
What are the requirements to become a cost estimators in Tennessee?▼
Cost Estimators 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 cost estimators afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $74,570, a cost estimators in Tennessee would take home approximately $5,071/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for cost estimators in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for cost estimators in Tennessee are Kingsport-Bristol ($82,250), Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($79,030), Memphis ($76,590). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for cost estimators?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means cost estimators keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.