Georgia vs Tennessee: Healthcare Job Market Comparison
Southeast healthcare giants. Atlanta's Emory vs. Nashville's HCA heartland.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Georgia | Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| Avg RN salary (BLS May 2024) | $78,820 | $75,130 |
| Cost of living (100 = US avg) | 91.3 | 90.3 |
| State income tax (top rate) | 5.39% | 0% |
Salary figures are approximate, drawn from public sources including BLS.
Notable Health Systems
Georgia
- • Emory Healthcare
- • Piedmont Healthcare
- • Grady Health
Tennessee
- • Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- • HCA Healthcare
- • Ballad Health
Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays nurses more, Georgia or Tennessee?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), registered nurses in Georgia earn an average of $78,820, compared to $75,130 in Tennessee. The gap is roughly $3,690 per year before adjusting for cost of living.
How does the cost of living compare between Georgia and Tennessee?
Using the MERIC Q4 2024 cost-of-living index (100 = national average), Georgia is 91.3 and Tennessee is 90.3. Tennessee (90.3) is the more affordable of the two, while Georgia (91.3) is more expensive. Housing is typically the largest driver of these differences.
Which state has a more favorable tax environment for healthcare providers?
Georgia has a top state income tax rate of 5.39%, while Tennessee's top rate is 0%. Always factor in property tax, sales tax, and local taxes before making a relocation decision. States with no income tax often offset through higher sales or property taxes.
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