Instructional Designer Salary in Memphis, Tennessee
The median instructional designer salary in Memphis, TN is $61,920 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 3.4% below the Tennessee state average.
Instructional Designer Pay in Memphis: What to Expect (2026)
Memphis offers a median instructional designer salary of $61,920, which is $2,160 below the Tennessee state average of $64,080. Compared to the national median of $72,000, 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 $61,920 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $72,000 in an average-cost city. This makes Memphis an attractive option for instructional designers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for instructional designers in Memphis spans from $37,840 at the 10th percentile to $101,480 at the 90th percentile — a $63,640 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $39,560, while senior instructional designers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $96,320. 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.
Instructional Designer Salary in Memphis by Experience
In Memphis, an entry-level instructional designer earns around $39,560, while experienced professionals earn up to $96,320 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Memphis, TN
| Percentile | Memphis |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $37,840 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,160 |
| Median (50th) | $61,920 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,700 |
| 90th Percentile | $101,480 |
Instructional Designer Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Instructional Designer in Memphis
Education
Most instructional designer positions require a master's degree. Memphis and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, instructional designer 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 Instructional Designer Jobs in Memphis
Browse open instructional designer positions in Memphis, TN: