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Science · Tennessee

How to Become a Physicists in Tennessee

Physicists in Tennessee earn a median salary of $173,660/year, which is 4% above the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a physicists takes home approximately $9,376/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$174K
Median salary in Tennessee
+4%
vs. national average
None
State income tax
260
Employed in Tennessee

What a physicists can afford in Tennessee

Gross annual salary$173,660
Est. monthly take-home (no state tax)$10,788/mo
Median 2BR rent (Tennessee)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home13.1% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$173,660/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$9,376/mo

Becoming a physicists in Tennessee

1

Meet education requirements

Physicists 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 physicists 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 physicistss. 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 260 physicists. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Memphis.

Physicists salary by metro area in Tennessee

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin$227K$109.02/hr
Memphis$132K$63.58/hr40
Knoxville$127K$60.91/hr100

Physicists salary range in Tennessee

10th percentile (entry)
$65K
25th percentile
$125K
Median (50th)
$174K
75th percentile
$227K
90th percentile (senior)
$227K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a physicists make in Tennessee?

The median physicists salary in Tennessee is $173,660 per year ($83.49/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $166,290. Salaries range from $64,930 to $226,750.

What are the requirements to become a physicists in Tennessee?

Physicists 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 physicists afford to live in Tennessee?

At the median salary of $173,660, a physicists in Tennessee would take home approximately $10,788/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 13.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for physicists in Tennessee?

The highest paying metro areas for physicists in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($226,750), Memphis ($132,250), Knoxville ($126,690). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Tennessee have state income tax for physicists?

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