EstatePass
Updated for 2026

Tennessee Real Estate Agent Salary & Income Guide

How much do real estate agents make in Tennessee? Here's the complete breakdown of average income, first-year earnings, commission structure, and top-paying cities.

$51,000

Average Salary

$33,150

First Year Income

$91,800

Top Producers

-7%

vs National Avg

Tennessee Real Estate Agent Salary by Experience Level

Experience LevelAnnual IncomeEst. Deals/Year
You are hereFirst Year (New Agent)
$33,1504
Average Agent (3-5 years)
$51,0006
Experienced Agent (5-10 years)
$68,8508
Top Producer (10+ years)
$91,80010

* Estimates based on Tennessee average home prices and typical 2.5% buyer/seller agent commission split. Actual income varies by market, brokerage split, and individual performance.

How Real Estate Agent Commissions Work in Tennessee

Average commission rate5-6%
Agent split (typical)50-70%
Average home price (US)$400,000
Average commission per deal$10,000-$12,000

Commission Calculation Example (Tennessee)

Home sale price$382,500
Total commission (5%)$19,125
Agent side (50%)$9,563
After brokerage split (60/40)$5,738

Tennessee vs National Average

Tennessee Average$51,000/year
National Average$55,000/year

Tennessee agents earn 7% less than the national average. However, cost of living is typically lower, which can offset the difference.

How to Maximize Your Income as a Tennessee Real Estate Agent

Pass the Exam on Your First Try

Every month studying instead of selling costs you potential income. With a 58% pass rate in Tennessee, proper exam prep is essential.

Build a Referral Network Early

Top agents generate 50%+ of business from referrals. Start networking from day one — past clients, other agents, and local businesses.

Specialize in a Niche Market

Focus on a specific neighborhood or property type in Tennessee. Specialists command higher commissions and close deals faster.

Choose the Right Brokerage

New agents should prioritize training and mentorship over commission split. A good brokerage can help you close your first 10 deals much faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do real estate agents make in Tennessee?

The average real estate agent in Tennessee earns approximately $51,000 per year. First-year agents typically earn around $33,150, while top producers can earn $91,800 or more. Income varies significantly based on experience, location, market conditions, and the number of transactions closed.

What is a first year real estate agent's income in Tennessee?

New real estate agents in Tennessee can expect to earn approximately $33,150 in their first year. This is lower than the state average because new agents are building their client base and learning the market. Most agents see significant income growth in years 2-3 as they build referral networks and close more deals.

How does Tennessee real estate agent salary compare to the national average?

Tennessee real estate agents earn $4,000 less than the national average of $55,000 — that's 7% below the national benchmark.

How many homes does a Tennessee agent need to sell per year?

Based on an estimated average commission of $9,563 per transaction, a Tennessee agent needs to close approximately 6 deals per year to match the state average salary of $51,000. Top producers close 20+ deals annually.

Is it worth becoming a real estate agent in Tennessee?

Real estate can be a lucrative career in Tennessee, but success depends on your dedication, market knowledge, and networking skills. With a 58% exam pass rate, preparation is key. The investment in a quality exam prep course typically pays for itself within the first transaction.

Ready to Start Your Tennessee Real Estate Career?

The first step is passing your Tennessee real estate exam. EstatePass has 1,600+ Tennessee-specific practice questions to help you pass on your first try.