Software Engineer Salary in Memphis, Tennessee
The median software engineer salary in Memphis, TN is $106,812 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 3.4% below the Tennessee state average.
Software Engineer Pay in Memphis: What to Expect (2026)
Memphis offers a median software engineer salary of $106,812, which is $3,726 below the Tennessee state average of $110,538. Compared to the national median of $124,200, 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 $106,812 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $124,200 in an average-cost city. This makes Memphis an attractive option for software engineers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for software engineers in Memphis spans from $64,156 at the 10th percentile to $170,779 at the 90th percentile — a $106,623 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $67,080, while senior software engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $159,100. 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.
Software Engineer Salary in Memphis by Experience
In Memphis, an entry-level software engineer earns around $67,080, while experienced professionals earn up to $159,100 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Memphis, TN
| Percentile | Memphis |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $64,156 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,452 |
| Median (50th) | $106,812 |
| 75th Percentile | $136,052 |
| 90th Percentile | $170,779 |
Software Engineer Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Software Engineer in Memphis
Education
Most software engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Memphis and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Memphis may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Software Engineer Jobs in Memphis
Browse open software engineer positions in Memphis, TN: