Preschool Teacher Salary in Tennessee
Preschool Teacher pay in Tennessee, explained
Preschool teachers in Tennessee earn a median of $34,280 per year ($16.48 per hour), which is 10% below the national median of $38,140. Entry-level workers earn around $27,160, while the most experienced preschool teachers reach about $64,480. Pay varies by employer, setting, and metro area within Tennessee.
Is $34,280 good pay in Tennessee?
Adjusted for Tennessee's cost of living (which runs 92% of the U.S. average), that $34,280 is worth about $37,314 in national buying power — ranking Tennessee #36 for real pay (vs #42 on the sticker number).
Preschool Teacher pay by experience in Tennessee
Preschool Teacher pay in neighboring states
| State | Median / yr | Real pay | vs TN |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee (here) | $34,280 | $37,314 | — |
| Georgia | $43,920 | $45,611 | −$9,640 |
| Virginia | $37,140 | $36,734 | −$2,860 |
| Mississippi | $36,250 | $41,689 | −$1,970 |
| Missouri | $36,090 | $39,739 | −$1,810 |
| North Carolina | $35,710 | $37,858 | −$1,430 |
| Arkansas | $34,190 | $39,327 | +$90 |
| Kentucky | $29,780 | $33,031 | +$4,500 |
| Alabama | $28,310 | $31,872 | +$5,970 |
Preschool Teacher in Tennessee: FAQ
How much do preschool teachers make in Tennessee?
Preschool teachers in Tennessee earn a median of $34,280 per year ($16.48 per hour), compared with $38,140 nationally.
Does Tennessee pay preschool teachers well?
At $34,280, Tennessee pays 10% below the national median for preschool teachers. An estimated 5,420 work in the state.