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How to Become a Interior Designers in Tennessee

Interior Designers in Tennessee earn a median salary of $58,730/year, which is 7% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a interior designers takes home approximately $2,690/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$59K
Median salary in Tennessee
-7%
vs. national average
None
State income tax
1,290
Employed in Tennessee

What a interior designers can afford in Tennessee

Gross annual salary$58,730
Est. monthly take-home (no state tax)$4,102/mo
Median 2BR rent (Tennessee)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home34.4% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$58,730/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,690/mo

Becoming a interior designers in Tennessee

1

Meet education requirements

Interior Designers positions in Tennessee typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many interior designers 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.

3

Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification

Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for interior designerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Tennessee

Tennessee employs 1,290 interior designers. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Chattanooga.

Interior Designers salary by metro area in Tennessee

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin$60K$29/hr780
Chattanooga$59K$28.36/hr120
Knoxville$58K$27.86/hr140
Memphis$49K$23.63/hr150

Interior Designers salary range in Tennessee

10th percentile (entry)
$38K
25th percentile
$46K
Median (50th)
$59K
75th percentile
$71K
90th percentile (senior)
$89K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a interior designers make in Tennessee?

The median interior designers salary in Tennessee is $58,730 per year ($28.24/hr). This is 7% below the national median of $63,490. Salaries range from $38,050 to $89,460.

What are the requirements to become a interior designers in Tennessee?

Interior Designers 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 interior designers afford to live in Tennessee?

At the median salary of $58,730, a interior designers in Tennessee would take home approximately $4,102/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 34.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for interior designers in Tennessee?

The highest paying metro areas for interior designers in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($60,320), Chattanooga ($58,980), Knoxville ($57,940). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Tennessee have state income tax for interior designers?

No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means interior designers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.