Baker Salary in Nashville, TN
Bakers in Nashville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $15.67 per hour, which translates to about $626.80 per week, $2,716.13 per month, and $32,593.60 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Nashville is growing positively at around 8.1% per year, indicating a healthy job market with expanding opportunities in baking and pastry arts within the region.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Nashville, TN?
The salary for a Baker in Nashville varies depending on experience, skill level, and employer type. Below is an approximate breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.91 | $476.40 | $2,057.20 | $24,686.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.67 | $626.80 | $2,716.13 | $32,593.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.61 | $824.40 | $3,563.40 | $42,868.80 |
Do Bakers in Nashville Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips as their work is performed behind the scenes and involves preparing baked goods rather than customer-facing service. Their earnings primarily come from wages or salary rather than gratuities.
Baker Salary in Nashville vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of about $16.13 per hour, which amounts to roughly $33,550.40 annually.
Compared to the national average, Bakers in Nashville earn slightly less per hour and annually, with an hourly wage of $15.67 and yearly pay of approximately $32,593.60. This reflects regional cost of living differences and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Nashville for Bakers
Nearby areas offering higher salaries for Bakers include:
- Franklin: $18.10 per hour
- Maryville: $16.79 per hour
Bakers working in Franklin, TN, may enjoy the highest pay in the vicinity, reflecting perhaps higher demand or more upscale bakery establishments in that area.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Nashville?
Several key factors influence a Baker’s salary in Nashville:
- Experience and Skills: Bakers with specialization in artisan breads, pastries, or cake decoration and several years of experience command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale bakeries, hotels, or specialty pastry shops typically yields better salaries compared to supermarkets or fast casual outlets.
- Certifications: Professional credentials like Certified Baker (CB) or ServSafe Food Handler Certification can positively impact earnings.
- Work Schedule: Bakers working early morning shifts or overtime hours might receive shift differentials or bonuses.
- Local Demand: Rising demand for baked goods in Nashville fuels salary growth.
How To Become a Baker in Nashville
To pursue a career as a Baker in Nashville, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Institutions like Nashville State Community College Culinary Arts Program offer Associate degrees focusing on baking and pastry arts.
- Complete Specialized Baking Training: The Art Institute of Tennessee – Nashville provides comprehensive baking and pastry curricula helpful for beginners and advancing Bakers.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required to assure compliance with health standards.
- Seek Professional Certification: The Certified Baker (CB) credential from the Retail Bakers of America demonstrates proficiency and may increase job prospects.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Work experience as a bakery assistant or apprentice is invaluable for skill development.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Nashville
Prominent employers in Nashville looking for qualified Bakers include:
- Panera Bread
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Publix
Establishments That Bakers in Nashville Work At
Bakers in Nashville typically find employment in a variety of establishments including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Often employing bakers to produce bakery items or desserts, these offer moderate salaries.
- Specialty Bakeries and Pastry Shops: These establishments generally pay higher wages due to the skilled craftsmanship required.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Bakers here focus on mass production of baked goods with consistent but usually lower wages.
- Hotels and Catering Services: They offer opportunities for skilled bakers to work in larger kitchens with potential for better pay and benefits.
Salary levels vary with the prestige and size of the establishment, with specialty bakeries and high-end venues providing higher earning opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Nashville for Bakers
If you are interested in careers related to Baking, you might consider roles that share culinary and kitchen skills.
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef, all of which involve related culinary expertise and offer distinct salary prospects.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Nashville
Bakers in Nashville should stay informed about labor regulations and tax requirements affecting their employment conditions and pay.
- The official website of Tennessee offers comprehensive information on state labor laws and employment standards.
- For federal labor regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor website serves as a valuable resource.