Social Worker Salary in Knoxville, TN
How much does a social worker make in Knoxville? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Knoxville's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how social worker salaries break down across different pay periods in Knoxville.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $32,774 | $53,980 | $75,186 |
| Monthly | $2,731 | $4,498 | $6,266 |
| Biweekly | $1,261 | $2,076 | $2,892 |
| Weekly | $630 | $1,038 | $1,446 |
| Hourly | $16 | $26 | $36 |
Knoxville vs National Average
How Knoxville's social worker salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Knoxville
About Social Worker
Overview
Help individuals and families address social and personal issues.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Social Work; Master's degree often required
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +14% over the next decade
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Social Worker Salary in Knoxville, TN — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a social worker in Knoxville, TN is $53,980 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 103. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Knoxville's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level social worker professionals in Knoxville can expect to earn around $32,774 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level social workers earning approximately $75,186 per year. This represents a 129% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Knoxville's cost of living index of 103 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a higher cost-of-living city, salaries in Knoxville are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $67,560, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a social worker's salary in Knoxville typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,350 per month, housing represents about 30.0% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Social Workers are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 14% over the next decade. In Knoxville, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.