“When I started as a health inspector, I was curious about the salary. I found the average to be around $50,000, though it depends on location. Working in a larger city helped me earn more, and with experience, my pay steadily increased.”
Health inspectors typically earn around $50,000 annually. However, this amount can vary depending on factors like location and experience. For instance, working in larger cities or gaining more experience can lead to a higher salary.
Stay tuned as we share valuable insights on how much health inspectors make! We’ll discuss the factors that impact their salary and give you a clearer idea of what you can expect from this career. Keep reading to find out more about health inspector earnings!
How Much Does A Public Health Inspector Make In Tennessee?
In Tennessee, the average salary for a Public Health Inspector is $50,796 annually. This works out to about $24.42 per hour. To break it down, it’s around $976 per week or $4,233 per month. However, salaries can range from $42,658 to $68,525 per year. Typically, most inspectors earn between $45,400 and $51,300 annually.

While the salary range is relatively steady, the job market for Public Health Inspectors in Tennessee is not highly active at the moment. Despite this, opportunities in the field may be available, particularly in larger cities. Factors like experience and location can impact overall earnings. So, although the job market isn’t booming, career growth remains possible.
The Role And Responsibilities Of A Health Inspector – Key Tasks And Insights!
Health inspectors, or environmental health specialists, ensure public safety by conducting inspections in various facilities. They assess compliance with health regulations, focusing on sanitation, food safety, and workplace health.
Typically working in government agencies, healthcare, the food industry, and local municipalities, they help prevent disease outbreaks by educating the public and business owners on health standards. Health inspectors also enforce laws related to environmental hazards and offer recommendations for improvements, ensuring that businesses and public spaces adhere to hygiene and safety regulations for community well-being.
Average Salary Of Health Inspectors In The U.S.- Top Factors Affecting Pay!
In the U.S., the average salary for health inspectors varies widely based on location, qualifications, and experience. However, the average salary for a health inspector typically ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 per year.
Salary Breakdown by Location:
- Tennessee: In Tennessee, the average annual salary for a public health inspector is approximately $50,796, which breaks down to $24.42 per hour. However, salaries can range from $42,658 to $68,525 depending on factors like city, experience, and specific job responsibilities.
- Top Cities: Health inspectors in cities like Ardmore can make as much as $57,833 annually, which is above the Tennessee average, while cities like Franklin and Gordonsville also offer salaries above the state average.
Salary by Experience:
Experience plays a significant role in determining a health inspector’s salary. Typically, those with more years of experience tend to earn higher salaries. However, salary growth in this field may not be as steep as in other professions, with a difference of approximately $5,900 between the 25th and 75th percentiles.
Factors Affecting Health Inspector Salaries – Key Factors For Better Pay In 2025!
Several factors can influence the salary of a health inspector, and understanding these can help give a better idea of what to expect. Let’s take a closer look at the key elements that play a role in determining their earnings.

Location:
The location of a health inspector’s job significantly affects their salary. Larger cities or areas with a higher cost of living tend to offer better pay. For example, health inspectors in Nashville earn around $54,037 annually, while those in smaller areas like Johnson City earn about $53,755. Therefore, location can make a noticeable difference in salary.
Experience and Education:
Experience and education also play a key role in salary. More experienced health inspectors generally earn higher wages. Additionally, those who pursue certifications or advanced degrees in public health or environmental science may be more competitive in the job market, which can lead to higher pay. As you gain experience and qualifications, your earning potential increases.
Employer Type:
Another factor affecting salary is the type of employer. Health inspectors working for government agencies often have stable salary with benefits. On the other hand, those working for private companies or consulting roles might experience more pay variation, depending on the contract and industry. Employer type can bring different benefits and salary levels.
Benefits of Being a Health Inspector – Why It’s a Great Career Choice!
Being a health inspector comes with many perks, aside from a competitive salary. Here are some key benefits:
- Health Insurance: Health inspectors often receive comprehensive healthcare benefits. This includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, ensuring they can access necessary healthcare services without high out-of-pocket costs. In addition, these benefits help health inspectors focus on their work without worrying about medical expenses.
- Retirement Plans: Another major benefit for health inspectors, especially those working in government positions, is access to retirement plans. These may include pension plans or 401(k) options, which allow inspectors to save for the future. This ensures financial security when they decide to retire.
- Paid Time Off: Health inspectors typically enjoy paid time off (PTO), including vacation and sick leave. This allows them to take a break when needed without sacrificing income. PTO helps maintain a healthy work-life balance, making the job more sustainable in the long run.
- Job Stability: Health inspection is generally considered a stable career, especially for those employed by government agencies. The demand for health inspectors is ongoing, as public health regulations and safety standards need continuous oversight. This stability can offer peace of mind to those pursuing this career path.
How Much Do Health Inspectors Make In Tennessee?
Let’s break down how much health inspectors earn in Tennessee. The salary can vary based on a few factors, but here’s a general idea of what you can expect:

- Average Salary: Health inspectors in Tennessee typically earn around $50,796 per year.
- Hourly Rate: This equals about $24.42 per hour, depending on the specific role and location.
- Variations: Keep in mind that salaries can change based on experience, location within Tennessee, and the type of employer.
So, while the average salary provides a helpful starting point, your earnings can vary depending on these factors.
Top 10 Highest Paying Cities For Public Health Inspector Jobs In Tennessee – Highest Salaries!
We’ve identified the top 10 cities in Tennessee where public health inspectors earn higher-than-average salaries. Leading the list is Ardmore, followed by Gordonsville and Franklin. Franklin’s salary is 8.8% higher than the Tennessee average, while Ardmore surpasses that, offering 13.9% more than the state average of $50,796.
These cities show that opportunities for public health inspectors in Tennessee are lucrative, with significant potential for economic growth by relocating. However, it’s important to note that the salary difference across these cities is relatively small, with only a 9% gap between Ardmore and Mount Juliet. Thus, when choosing a location, factors like cost of living might be just as important as salary.
A Detailed Breakdown Of The Salaries In These Cities:
City | Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage |
Ardmore | $57,833 | $4,819 | $1,112 | $27.80 |
Gordonsville | $55,288 | $4,607 | $1,063 | $26.58 |
Franklin | $55,267 | $4,605 | $1,062 | $26.57 |
Nashville | $54,037 | $4,503 | $1,039 | $25.98 |
Johnson City | $53,755 | $4,479 | $1,033 | $25.84 |
Oak Ridge | $53,506 | $4,458 | $1,028 | $25.72 |
Knoxville | $53,413 | $4,451 | $1,027 | $25.68 |
Kingsport | $53,227 | $4,435 | $1,023 | $25.59 |
Jackson | $53,107 | $4,425 | $1,021 | $25.53 |
Mount Juliet | $52,834 | $4,402 | $1,016 | $25.40 |
These figures highlight the top-paying cities for public health inspectors, but when considering a move, it’s essential to factor in the local cost of living to make the most of these salary differences.
Top 5 Best Paying Related Public Health Inspector Jobs In Tennessee – High-Paying Roles!
We’ve identified several jobs that offer higher salaries than public health inspector positions in Tennessee. For example, Designated Mechanic Examiner jobs pay up to $23,277 (45.8%) more than the average public health inspector salary of $50,796.
Here’s a breakdown of the top-paying related jobs:
Job Title | Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage |
Designated Mechanic Examiner | $74,073 | $6,172 | $1,424 | $35.61 |
A And P Mechanic | $65,453 | $5,454 | $1,258 | $31.47 |
Nace Level 2 Coating Inspector | $61,831 | $5,152 | $1,189 | $29.73 |
Level 2 NDT Inspector | $56,114 | $4,676 | $1,079 | $26.98 |
Health Inspector | $46,893 | $3,907 | $901 | $22.54 |
As seen in the table, positions like Designated Mechanic Examiner and A And P Mechanic offer significantly higher salaries compared to the standard public health inspector role.
Is The Job Market For Health Inspectors Competitive?
The job market for health inspectors is steady, but it can be competitive, especially in certain regions. Larger cities or areas with higher populations may offer more job opportunities due to greater demand for health inspections. However, competition can also be higher in these areas.
On the other hand, rural or less populated areas might have fewer openings but could offer less competition. Additionally, candidates with specialized certifications or experience in environmental health may have an edge over others in a competitive job market. Overall, staying updated with relevant qualifications can increase your chances.
FAQS:
What qualifications are required to become a health inspector?
To become a health inspector, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in environmental health, public health, or a related field. Some positions may also require certification from organizations such as the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA). In addition, a strong knowledge of local health regulations is essential for the role
How do health inspectors contribute to public safety?
A9: Health inspectors help ensure public safety by conducting regular inspections of facilities like restaurants, schools, and hospitals to ensure they meet health and safety regulations. By identifying hazards such as foodborne illnesses or unsafe working conditions, they help prevent public health crises and improve overall community well-being.
Can health inspectors work in private industries?
Yes, health inspectors can work in private industries such as food processing, manufacturing, and consulting. These positions typically involve inspecting business practices, environmental factors, and compliance with safety regulations. Health inspectors in the private sector might have more varied job duties, but the role still centers around ensuring public safety.
What skills are important for a health inspector?
Key skills for health inspectors include attention to detail, strong analytical abilities, excellent communication skills, and the ability to interpret laws and regulations. Additionally, they must be organized and able to handle multiple inspections efficiently while ensuring accuracy in their reports.
Is there room for career advancement as a health inspector?
Yes, there is potential for career advancement in the field of health inspection. With experience, health inspectors can take on supervisory roles, such as senior health inspector or environmental health manager. Additionally, pursuing certifications and continuing education can open doors to specialized roles or leadership positions in public health.
Conclusion:
Health inspectors in Tennessee earn a steady average salary of around $50,796 annually, with variations depending on location and experience. While the job market is not highly competitive, health inspectors still have the potential for career growth, especially with experience and certification.
Larger cities offer better pay, but smaller areas may provide less competition, creating unique opportunities for those pursuing this career. Overall, the role offers stability, good benefits, and room for advancement in both public and private sectors. Furthermore, the growing demand for health inspections ensures long-term job security for those in the field.
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