Tennessee Speech-Language Pathologist Salary Guide - 2024

Speech Pathologist Programs

by Speech Pathologist Programs Staff

Updated: February 28th, 2024

People with communication and swallowing issues benefit greatly from the work of speech-language pathologists (SLPs). The demand for speech therapy services is growing, and there is a significant demand for SLPs in Tennessee. According on experience, education, and geography, the average salary for SLPs in Tennessee is competitive and subject to change.

Comparatively speaking, SLPs with advanced degrees and certifications frequently make more money than those with simply a bachelor’s degree. SLPs with particular areas of expertise, such as pediatrics, critical care, or private practice, frequently make more money overall. SLPs can earn some of the best wages in the state in the metro areas of Nashville, Knoxville, and Memphis.

The typical yearly income for SLPs in Tennessee is between $48,930 and $106,740. The overall pay that SLPs in Tennessee are paid can also be significantly impacted by benefit packages, which include paid time off, retirement plans, and health insurance.

It’s crucial to keep in mind that Tennessee’s need for SLPs is anticipated to increase more during the next few years. A growing older population will result in a greater demand for speech therapy services, especially for people with illnesses like Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. For those interested in a career in speech therapy, this demand, coupled with the good pay offered to SLPs in Tennessee, makes it an appealing option.

Tennessee Speech-Language Pathologist Salaries – Visualized

Speech-Language Pathologist Salary by Industry in Tennessee

Speech-Language Pathologists Salaries in urban areas of Tennessee

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
Chattanooga, TN-GA250$76,060
Clarksville, TN-KY120$85,630
Cleveland, TN30$72,330
Jackson, TN50$69,200
Johnson City, TN80$77,030
Kingsport-Bristol-Bristol, TN-VA110$71,780
Knoxville, TN460$71,520
Memphis, TN-MS-AR440$78,300
Morristown, TN30$73,430
Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin, TN1,010$75,490
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021

Speech-Language Pathologists Salaries in rural areas of Tennessee

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
West Tennessee nonmetropolitan area90$64,960
South Central Tennessee nonmetropolitan area90$64,210
North Central Tennessee nonmetropolitan area120$74,290
East Tennessee nonmetropolitan area90$72,270
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021

What is it like to work as an SLP in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, working as a speech-language pathologist (SLP) can be a rewarding and exciting career choice with a range of opportunities in various cities. In this post, we’ll examine the daily lives of SLPs in Nashville, Knoxville, and Memphis, three Tennessee cities.

The healthcare sector is prospering in Nashville, often known as Music Metropolis, which is a dynamic and developing city. SLPs can anticipate working in a range of places in Nashville, including schools, hospitals, private practices, and rehabilitation facilities. Additionally, the city provides many opportunities for career development and progress through the availability of several conferences, workshops, and continuing education courses.

Knoxville, which is situated in the eastern region of the state, is renowned for its magnificent mountains, lakes, and rolling hills. SLPs in Knoxville often work in a variety of places, including private practices, rehabilitation facilities, and schools. The city is an excellent area for SLPs to live and work since it has a strong sense of community and offers a friendly, laid-back environment.

Memphis, which lies in the state’s western region, is renowned for its vibrant cultural history, blues music, and mouthwatering BBQ. SLPs in Memphis can anticipate working in a range of places, including clinics, private offices, hospitals, and schools. The city has many prospects for career growth and promotion and is renowned for its strong sense of community.

In conclusion, all three locations provide chances for SLPs, but each has particular benefits and features that set it apart. Knoxville has a welcoming and laid-back lifestyle, Memphis is renowned for its rich cultural past, and Nashville is a growing city with a strong healthcare sector. Regardless of the city an SLP chooses to work in, they can anticipate having a good influence on people who struggle with communication while also having a demanding and rewarding profession.