How to Become a Pharmacists in Tennessee
Pharmacists in Tennessee earn a median salary of $131,290/year, which is 5% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a pharmacists takes home approximately $6,962/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a pharmacists can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a pharmacists in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Pharmacists 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
Many pharmacists 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 pharmacistss. 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 8,050 pharmacists. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Jackson.
Pharmacists salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $136K | $65.15/hr | 2,650 |
| Jackson | $135K | $64.87/hr | 210 |
| Memphis | $134K | $64.54/hr | 1,490 |
| Knoxville | $133K | $63.76/hr | 1,030 |
| Chattanooga | $130K | $62.6/hr | 630 |
| Clarksville | $128K | $61.3/hr | 210 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $127K | $60.87/hr | 320 |
| Johnson City | $126K | $60.6/hr | 310 |
| Morristown | $126K | $60.36/hr | 130 |
| Cleveland | $124K | $59.63/hr | 110 |
Pharmacists salary range in Tennessee
Pharmacists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pharmacists make in Tennessee?▼
The median pharmacists salary in Tennessee is $131,290 per year ($63.12/hr). This is 5% below the national median of $137,480. Salaries range from $72,580 to $161,360.
What are the requirements to become a pharmacists in Tennessee?▼
Pharmacists 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 pharmacists afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $131,290, a pharmacists in Tennessee would take home approximately $8,374/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 pharmacists in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for pharmacists in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($135,500), Jackson ($134,920), Memphis ($134,230). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for pharmacists?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means pharmacists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.