How to Become a Public Relations Specialists in Tennessee
Public Relations Specialists in Tennessee earn a median salary of $56,200/year, which is 19% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a public relations specialists takes home approximately $2,521/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a public relations specialists can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a public relations specialists in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Public Relations Specialists 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 public relations specialists 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 public relations specialistss. 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 3,000 public relations specialists. The highest concentrations are in Chattanooga and Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin.
Public Relations Specialists salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chattanooga | $63K | $30.3/hr | 310 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $60K | $28.85/hr | 1,190 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $55K | $26.57/hr | 100 |
| Memphis | $55K | $26.4/hr | 510 |
| Knoxville | $53K | $25.38/hr | 390 |
| Jackson | $50K | $24.03/hr | 40 |
| Clarksville | $50K | $23.9/hr | 90 |
| Johnson City | $46K | $22.18/hr | 40 |
Public Relations Specialists salary range in Tennessee
Public Relations Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a public relations specialists make in Tennessee?▼
The median public relations specialists salary in Tennessee is $56,200 per year ($27.02/hr). This is 19% below the national median of $69,780. Salaries range from $31,860 to $93,990.
What are the requirements to become a public relations specialists in Tennessee?▼
Public Relations Specialists 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 public relations specialists afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $56,200, a public relations specialists in Tennessee would take home approximately $3,933/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for public relations specialists in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for public relations specialists in Tennessee are Chattanooga ($63,020), Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($60,000), Kingsport-Bristol ($55,270). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for public relations specialists?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means public relations specialists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.