Chemical Engineer Salary in Memphis, Tennessee
The median chemical engineer salary in Memphis, TN is $91,384 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 3.4% below the Tennessee state average.
Chemical Engineer Pay in Memphis: What to Expect (2026)
Memphis offers a median chemical engineer salary of $91,384, which is $3,187 below the Tennessee state average of $94,571. Compared to the national median of $106,260, Memphis pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Memphis's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 86% of the national average. This means the $91,384 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $106,260 in an average-cost city. This makes Memphis an attractive option for chemical engineers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for chemical engineers in Memphis spans from $58,480 at the 10th percentile to $147,920 at the 90th percentile — a $89,440 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $60,200, while senior chemical engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $139,320. As a major metro area with a population of 633,104, Memphis typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Chemical Engineer Salary in Memphis by Experience
In Memphis, an entry-level chemical engineer earns around $60,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $139,320 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Memphis, TN
| Percentile | Memphis |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $58,480 |
| 25th Percentile | $72,240 |
| Median (50th) | $91,384 |
| 75th Percentile | $118,680 |
| 90th Percentile | $147,920 |
Chemical Engineer Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Chemical Engineer in Memphis
Education
Most chemical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Memphis and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, chemical engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Memphis may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemical Engineer Jobs in Memphis
Browse open chemical engineer positions in Memphis, TN: