Graphic Designer Salary in Tennessee
Based on 4K+ workers in Tennessee
Median Annual Salary (TN)
$57,270
$27.53/hr
vs National Average
$60,609
-5.5% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$38K – $93K
4K employed in Tennessee
Understanding the Graphic Designer salary in Tennessee reveals a median annual earning of $57,270. This figure falls 6% below the national average, with a typical salary range spanning from $37,910 to $92,540. Currently, there are approximately 3,880 individuals employed in this role across the state.
Several factors influence the Graphic Designer salary in Tennessee. Experience level is paramount, with senior designers commanding higher pay than entry-level professionals. Additionally, the specific industry and the size of the employing company can significantly impact compensation, as can the designer's specialized skills and the cost of living in various Tennessee cities.
Salary Distribution — Graphic Designer in Tennessee
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $37,910 |
| 25th percentile | $47,510 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $57,270 |
| 75th percentile | $75,170 |
| 90th percentile | $92,540 |
Top-Paying Industries for Graphic Designer (U.S.)
Which industries pay Graphic Designers the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Graphic Designers in Tennessee tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | $100,350 | 130 |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $78,930 | 5K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $78,530 | 9K |
| Finance and Insurance | $77,600 | 4K |
| Administrative and Support Services | $70,920 | 8K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Graphic Designer in Tennessee vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Tennessee) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $49,090 |
| 2023 | $47,740 |
| 2024 | $51,740 |
| 2025 | $57,270 |
| 2026 (projected) | $60,706 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Tennessee Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $49,090 | $53,507 |
| 2023 | $47,740 | $54,331 |
| 2024 | $51,740 | $57,115 |
| 2025 | $57,270 | $60,609 |
| 2026 (projected) | $60,706 | $64,246 |
Graphic Designer Salary by Experience Level in Tennessee
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $47,510 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $57,270 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $75,170 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $92,540 |
Graphic Designer Salary in Other States
Related Graphic Designer Salaries in Tennessee
How other high-demand occupations in Tennessee compare to Graphic Designer ($57,270 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Graphic Designer | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art Director in TN | $89,860 | +56.9% | $43.20/hr |
| Producer and Director in TN | $73,020 | +27.5% | $35.11/hr |
| Commercial and Industrial Designer in TN | $71,230 | +24.4% | $34.25/hr |
| Interior Designer in TN | $63,660 | +11.2% | $30.61/hr |
| Audio and Video Technician in TN | $49,970 | -12.7% | $24.02/hr |
| Insurance Sales Agent in TN | $57,120 | -0.3% | $27.46/hr |
| Securities Sales Agent in TN | $58,050 | +1.4% | $27.91/hr |
| Kindergarten Teacher in TN | $58,070 | +1.4% | $27.92/hr |
| Computer User Support Specialist in TN | $55,990 | -2.2% | $26.92/hr |
| Plumber in TN | $58,600 | +2.3% | $28.17/hr |
| Truck Driver in TN | $58,620 | +2.4% | $28.18/hr |
| Paralegal in TN | $58,820 | +2.7% | $28.28/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Graphic Designer in Tennessee?
- The median salary for a Graphic Designer in Tennessee is $57,270 per year, which is equivalent to $28 per hour. This median figure means half of Graphic Designers in the state earn more, and half earn less.
How does the salary for Graphic Designers in Tennessee compare to the national average?
- Graphic Designers in Tennessee earn 5.5% less than the national average. The median salary in Tennessee is $57,270 annually, while the national median is higher.
What is the salary range for Graphic Designers in Tennessee?
- In Tennessee, Graphic Designers can expect to earn between $37,910 and $92,540 annually. The median salary falls within this range at $57,270 per year.
How many Graphic Designers are employed in Tennessee?
- There are approximately 3,880 Graphic Designers employed in Tennessee. This number reflects the current job market for this profession within the state.