How to Become a Registered Nurses in Tennessee
Registered Nurses in Tennessee earn a median salary of $79,030/year, which is 16% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a registered nurses takes home approximately $3,920/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a registered nurses can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a registered nurses in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Registered Nurses 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
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 registered nursess. 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 67,990 registered nurses. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Memphis.
Registered Nurses salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $81K | $39.02/hr | 24,460 |
| Memphis | $79K | $38.1/hr | 13,570 |
| Clarksville | $78K | $37.47/hr | 1,610 |
| Chattanooga | $77K | $36.96/hr | 5,940 |
| Morristown | $77K | $36.84/hr | 680 |
| Cleveland | $76K | $36.65/hr | 560 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $75K | $35.91/hr | 2,220 |
| Johnson City | $73K | $35.26/hr | 2,550 |
| Knoxville | $73K | $35.25/hr | 7,970 |
| Jackson | $72K | $34.44/hr | 1,950 |
Registered Nurses salary range in Tennessee
Registered Nurses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a registered nurses make in Tennessee?▼
The median registered nurses salary in Tennessee is $79,030 per year ($38/hr). This is 16% below the national median of $93,600. Salaries range from $59,540 to $102,040.
What are the requirements to become a registered nurses in Tennessee?▼
Registered Nurses 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 registered nurses afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $79,030, a registered nurses in Tennessee would take home approximately $5,332/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 26.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for registered nurses in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for registered nurses in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($81,170), Memphis ($79,250), Clarksville ($77,930). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for registered nurses?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means registered nurses keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.