Tennessee, with its rich cultural heritage and economic diversity, offers a unique backdrop for business administration professionals. Salaries in the state vary across industries, reflecting a dynamic job market with opportunities for entrepreneurs, leaders and managers alike.
With its music and recording scene and healthcare and biotech companies, Tennessee has a strong economy in the following types of industries:
Automotive manufacturing:
With major plants and headquarters, the automotive industry is a cornerstone of Tennessee's economy.
Healthcare and biotechnology:
Boasting renowned healthcare institutions, Tennessee is a hub for medical research and innovation.
Music and entertainment:
Nashville, the state capital, is renowned as the country music capital and a hub for the entertainment industry.
Agriculture:
The state's fertile lands contribute to a thriving agricultural sector.
There are roughly 70,580 people employed as general and operations managers in Tennessee, says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median wage per hour is $49 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 5.8%.
Some of the biggest employers of business administration professionals in the state are located in Nashville, Franklin and Memphis and include:
Nashville, TN. Operating numerous hospitals, HCA HQ and its different locations offer opportunities for business administrators in healthcare management.
FedEx Corporation:
Memphis, TN. As a global logistics giant, FedEx provides positions for business administrators, particularly in operations and supply chain roles.
Eastman Chemical Company:
Kingsport, TN. A major player in the chemical industry, Eastman hires business administrators for various management positions.
Bridgestone Americas, Inc.:
Nashville, TN. In the tire and rubber industry, Bridgestone offers opportunities for business administrators in operations and management.
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Business administration salary Tennessee statistics
While the median salary for business administration professionals—a category that includes careers in management, sales, marketing and several other business fields—is just over $76,850 a year according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, pay may vary depending upon several factors, including where you work and live and the cost of living, how much experience you have, what certifications you have earned and your level of education.
Here are salary ranges for four areas of business administration in Tennessee:
Entrepreneurs:
Entrepreneurs in Tennessee may yield incomes ranging from $50,000 for small ventures to significant earnings for those who successfully navigate the competitive business landscape.
Leadership roles:
Top executives, including CEOs and CFOs, in Tennessee's major corporations can command salaries exceeding $150,000, with the potential for higher earnings based on industry and company size.
Operations and general managers:
Salaries for operations and general managers in Tennessee generally fall between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, influenced by factors such as company size and industry demands.
Logisticians/Supply chain managers:
Positioned in a state with a robust manufacturing sector, supply chain managers in Tennessee can earn salaries ranging from $60,000 to $110,000 per year, depending on experience and industry.
Median business administration salary in Tennessee
The median annual salary for general and operations managers in Tennessee is $102,850, which is lower than the national median. However, it's important to note that salaries may vary based on experience, education, industry and location within Tennessee.
General and Operations Managers
10%$47,510
25%$65,880
50%$102,850Median
75%$161,270
90%$228,340
Median Hourly Wage$49
Job growth5.8%
Total Employment66,610
Metro area
Median Salary
Bottom 10%
Top 10%
Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin, TN
$108,380
$54,120
N/A
Knoxville, TN
$103,360
$48,100
$234,460
Chattanooga, TN-GA
$103,200
$46,370
$219,580
Memphis, TN-MS-AR
$100,760
$47,230
$227,720
Kingsport-Bristol, TN-VA
$92,540
$45,620
$207,720
Jackson, TN
$89,850
$46,200
$216,080
Cleveland, TN
$89,830
$44,360
$206,290
Johnson City, TN
$87,120
$41,400
$212,740
Morristown, TN
$83,270
$40,870
$200,000
Clarksville, TN-KY
$77,440
$36,470
$181,640
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2033. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
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Salary range for a business administration career in Tennessee
The salary range for general and operations professionals in Tennessee typically spans from $47,510 to $228,340 per year. This accounts for entry-level positions to senior-level roles and takes into consideration the other factors such as experience, education and time in the position.
Pay by metro area within the state of Tennessee
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. For example, cities like Memphis or Nashville tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is an industry hub, say you work in business and you live in a city that has several high profile corporate businesses or healthcare industries, pay may be more competitive. Unfortunately, Tennessee has no metro area that ranks in the top five for either highest pay or highest number of workers in a business administration sector. Here are the top metro areas for operations managers.
Metro Area
Median Annual Salary
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA
$162,480
Trenton-Princeton, NJ
$160,460
San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA
$152,090
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
$151,420
New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ
$149,260
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA
$141,280
Sioux Falls, SD-MN
$138,940
Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT
$135,210
Huntsville, AL
$133,750
Bridgeport-Stamford-Danbury, CT
$132,880
Factors affecting your business administration salary in Tennessee
Several factors can influence the salary potential in the business administration field in Tennessee. These factors may include:
Education and experience:
Higher levels of education, such as a master's degree or an MBA, often equate to higher earning potential. Specialized certifications and training can also enhance your value in the job market. Your time on the job may contribute significantly to your pay package as well.
Industry:
Salaries can vary significantly based on the industry, with healthcare and technology often offering higher compensation.
Geographic location and cost of living:
Salaries may vary across cities in Tennessee, with metropolitan areas generally offering higher compensation.
Job title and responsibilities:
Different roles within business administration have varying salary ranges. Leadership positions such as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or Chief Financial Officer (CFO) typically command higher salaries than mid-level management roles.
How can I know if I am being paid fairly in Tennessee?
Tennessee follows federal labor laws, including minimum wage standards set by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Employers and employees can refer to the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development for information on state-specific regulations.
Research industry salaries: Utilize online salary research tools like Glassdoor, Payscale or the BLS to get an idea of the average salaries for your specific job title and industry in Tennessee. Tennessee's Equal Pay Act ensure fair and equitable pay for doing the same job.
Consult with colleagues: Discuss salary ranges with colleagues or peers in your company or industry. While it's essential to maintain professionalism, sharing information can help you gauge whether your compensation is in line with others in similar positions.
Consider where you live: Salaries can vary within Tennessee based on the cost of living in different regions. If you are in a metropolitan area, the cost of living may be higher, which could impact salary expectations.
Review company policies: Familiarize yourself with your company's policies on compensation and benefits. Understand how performance reviews and salary adjustments are handled within the organization.
Seek feedback: Schedule a meeting with your supervisor or HR department to discuss your performance and compensation. Seek feedback on your contributions and inquire about the possibility of a salary review.
Stay informed about market trends: Keep yourself updated on industry and market trends. Changes in the demand for specific skills or fluctuations in the job market can impact salary expectations.
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Education and training in TN
The educational requirements for business administration professionals in Tennessee can vary based on the specific role and employer.
While a bachelor's degree may suffice for entry-level positions, many business administration professionals in Tennessee pursue advanced degrees, such as an MBA, for career advancement.
However, a typical educational pathway may include:
Some careers in international business or leadership may require doctorates or additional education.
Tennessee's educational institutions contribute significantly to the state's skilled workforce. Universities such as the University of Tennessee and the University of Memphis offer comprehensive business administration programs. These institutions provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the competitive business landscape.
Cost of living considerations for Tennessee
When evaluating business admin salaries in different areas of TN, it's crucial to consider the cost of living. The cost of housing, transportation, health care and other expenses can vary across cities or regions within the state. Assessing the cost of living helps you gauge how salaries align with local expenses and make more informed decisions about job opportunities or potential relocation.
Tennessee boasts a lower cost of living compared to many other states, says RentCafe—around 11% lower than the national average—with housing at 19% lower and healthcare at 12% lower, which equates to a favorable economic environment for students and professionals alike.
Even better news is all major cities in the state also boast a lower cost of living than the national average. Take a look:
City
Cost of living percentage
Nashville
2% lower
Murfreesboro
9% lower
Columbia
5% lower
Chattanooga
7% lower
Clarksville
7% lower
Tennessee professional associations and networking
These associations provide valuable networking opportunities, continuing education and development resources and a platform for industry professionals to stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in their respective fields. It's always a good idea to explore their websites, attend events and consider joining to enhance your professional growth and connect with like-minded individuals in Tennessee.
Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry: Offers networking opportunities for business professionals across various industries.
Tennessee Manufacturers Association (TMA): Relevant for business administrators in the manufacturing sector.
This business administration salary guide for Tennessee aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding different professions under the broad business administration umbrella.
Business administration salaries in Tennessee reflect the state's economic diversity, offering a blend of opportunities in various industries. Whether in the heart of the music scene or the manufacturing sector, business professionals in Tennessee find a dynamic and rewarding environment.
Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, negotiate salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.
Find business administration salaries for other states
Learn what you may be able to earn in your state, how the cost of living and other factors could impact your pay, why education matters—especially in business administration leadership roles—and much more.
