Registered Nurses Salary in Chattanooga, TN-GA
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Chattanooga, TN-GA
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In Chattanooga, TN-GA, the typical registered nurse earns a median annual salary of $76,870, which translates to an hourly wage of approximately $36.96. This figure is notably lower than the national median for registered nurses, which stands at $93,600. When compared to the local area’s median household income of $68,666, the earnings of registered nurses in Chattanooga are significantly higher, indicating that this occupation generally provides a substantial financial advantage over other jobs available within the region.
Entry-level registered nurses in Chattanooga typically earn around the 25th percentile mark, which is approximately $66,290 annually. In contrast, experienced nurses with more specialized skills or those who have advanced into supervisory roles can earn up to the 90th percentile, reaching annual salaries as high as $99,420. The disparity between these earnings levels is driven by factors such as years of experience, additional certifications, specialization in fields like oncology or pediatrics, and performance-based incentives. As nurses progress through their careers, opportunities for higher pay become more prevalent, reflecting the increased responsibility and expertise required at advanced stages of practice.
Salary percentile breakdown
Chattanooga economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Registered Nurses make per hour in Chattanooga?
The median hourly wage for Registered Nurses in Chattanooga, TN-GA is $36.96, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $49.49 or more per hour.
Is Chattanooga above or below average for Registered Nurses salaries?
The median Registered Nurses salary in Chattanooga, TN-GA is 17.9% below the national median of $93,600. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Registered Nurses in Chattanooga?
Entry-level Registered Nurses (10th percentile) earn around $61,140 per year in Chattanooga, TN-GA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $66,290.