Social Worker Salary in Tennessee
Based on 2K+ workers in Tennessee
Median Annual Salary (TN)
$46,500
$22.36/hr
vs National Average
$57,161
-18.7% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$38K – $68K
2K employed in Tennessee
Exploring the Social Worker salary in Tennessee reveals a median annual earning of $46,500, with a typical range between $38,320 and $68,430. This figure positions Tennessee's social worker compensation notably below the national average, approximately 19% lower. Currently, the state employs around 2,220 social workers, indicating a significant presence in the profession within Tennessee.
Several elements influence the Social Worker salary in Tennessee. Experience level, specific certifications, and the type of employer (e.g., government agency, non-profit, private practice) all play a crucial role. Furthermore, the geographical location within Tennessee and the specific demand for social workers in particular regions or specializations can also impact earning potential.
Salary Distribution — Social Worker in Tennessee
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $38,320 |
| 25th percentile | $42,780 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $46,500 |
| 75th percentile | $55,310 |
| 90th percentile | $68,430 |
Top-Paying Industries for Social Worker (U.S.)
Which industries pay Social Workers the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Social Workers in Tennessee tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Finance and Insurance | $94,250 | 550 |
| Educational Services | $72,880 | 2K |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $68,600 | 20K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $65,990 | 2K |
| Health Care and Social Assistance | $59,270 | 104K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Social Worker in Tennessee vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Tennessee) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $40,040 |
| 2023 | $43,890 |
| 2024 | $48,760 |
| 2025 | $46,500 |
| 2026 (projected) | $46,500 |
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 | $40,040 | $50,498 |
| 2023 | $43,890 | $53,608 |
| 2024 | $48,760 | $56,931 |
| 2025 | $46,500 | $57,161 |
| 2026 (projected) | $46,500 | $57,161 |
Social Worker Salary by Experience Level in Tennessee
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $42,780 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $46,500 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $55,310 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $68,430 |
Social Worker Salary in Other States
Related Social Worker Salaries in Tennessee
How other high-demand occupations in Tennessee compare to Social Worker ($46,500 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Social Worker | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiologist in TN | $610,080 | +1212.0% | $293.31/hr |
| Surgeon in TN | $373,510 | +703.2% | $179.57/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in TN | $354,580 | +662.5% | $170.47/hr |
| Anesthesiologist in TN | $330,620 | +611.0% | $158.95/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in TN | $232,220 | +399.4% | $111.64/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in TN | $226,830 | +387.8% | $109.05/hr |
| Dentist in TN | $215,290 | +363.0% | $103.50/hr |
| Psychiatrist in TN | $214,880 | +362.1% | $103.31/hr |
| Podiatrist in TN | $212,470 | +356.9% | $102.15/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in TN | $211,450 | +354.7% | $101.66/hr |
| Pediatrician in TN | $176,210 | +278.9% | $84.72/hr |
| Optometrist in TN | $134,170 | +188.5% | $64.50/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do social workers make in Tennessee?
- The median salary for social workers in Tennessee is $46,500 per year, which averages out to $22 per hour. The salary range for most social workers falls between $38,320 and $68,430 annually.
What is the typical hourly wage for a social worker in Tennessee?
- Social workers in Tennessee typically earn an hourly wage of $22. This figure is based on the median annual salary of $46,500. The broader hourly range can be from approximately $18 to $33.
How does a social worker's salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
- Social workers in Tennessee earn about 18.7% less than the national average. The median salary in Tennessee is $46,500 per year, while the national median is significantly higher.
Is the demand for social workers high in Tennessee based on employment numbers?
- There are approximately 2,220 social workers currently employed in Tennessee. While this indicates a presence in the field, specific demand often relates to salary trends and growth in the profession.