How to Become a Lawyers in Tennessee
Lawyers in Tennessee earn a median salary of $130,570/year, which is 14% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a lawyers takes home approximately $6,921/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a lawyers can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a lawyers in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Lawyers positions in Tennessee typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in Tennessee. 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 lawyerss. 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 8,830 lawyers. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Clarksville.
Lawyers salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $143K | $68.95/hr | 4,100 |
| Clarksville | $129K | $62.04/hr | 120 |
| Memphis | $122K | $58.42/hr | 1,740 |
| Knoxville | $121K | $58.19/hr | 1,060 |
| Jackson | $121K | $58.15/hr | 160 |
| Johnson City | $117K | $56.44/hr | 110 |
| Cleveland | $117K | $56.44/hr | 60 |
| Chattanooga | $115K | $55.43/hr | 730 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $101K | $48.71/hr | 290 |
| Morristown | $90K | $43.36/hr | 60 |
Lawyers salary range in Tennessee
Lawyers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a lawyers make in Tennessee?▼
The median lawyers salary in Tennessee is $130,570 per year ($62.77/hr). This is 14% below the national median of $151,160. Salaries range from $66,060 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a lawyers in Tennessee?▼
Lawyers positions in Tennessee typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a lawyers afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $130,570, a lawyers in Tennessee would take home approximately $8,333/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 16.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for lawyers in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for lawyers in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($143,420), Clarksville ($129,050), Memphis ($121,510). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for lawyers?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means lawyers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.