Tennessee does not set a minimum wage above the federal level, so employers covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act must pay the federal minimum of $7.25 per hour. Tennessee has no state minimum wage law, so the federal rate applies.
Wage rates for 2026
Overtime & premium pay
| Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Weekly | 40 hours (1.5x) |
Tennessee has no state minimum wage law and follows the federal $7.25 under the FLSA.
Related labor laws in Tennessee
Paid sick leave
Not required by state law.
Overtime
Overtime is required after 40 hours (1.5x) in a week. Tennessee has no state minimum wage law and follows the federal $7.25 under the FLSA.
Pay frequency & final paycheck
Rules for how often employees must be paid and when a final paycheck is due vary. Confirm the current requirements with the Tennessee Department of Labor.
Meal & rest breaks
Whether a meal break or paid rest break is required, and whether that time is paid, follows Tennessee and federal rules.
Time off to vote
Whether employees get time off to vote, and whether it is paid, is set by state election law.
Jury duty
Your job is protected during jury service. Whether the employer must pay you depends on the state.
Bereavement leave
Only six states require bereavement or funeral leave. Many employers offer it voluntarily.
As of 2026, no city or county in Tennessee sets a minimum wage above the state rate, so the statewide $7.25 applies everywhere.