Speech-Language Pathologist Salary in Memphis, TN: $78,575 (2026)

Speech-Language Pathologist Pay in Memphis: What to Expect (2026)

Memphis offers a median speech-language pathologist salary of $78,575, which is $2,679 below the Tennessee state average of $81,254. Compared to the national median of $89,290, 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 $78,575 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $91,366 in an average-cost city. This makes Memphis an attractive option for speech-language pathologists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for speech-language pathologists in Memphis spans from $52,976 at the 10th percentile to $112,640 at the 90th percentile — a $59,664 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $54,560, while senior speech-language pathologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $105,600. 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.

Speech-Language Pathologist Salary in Memphis by Experience

In Memphis, an entry-level speech-language pathologist earns around $54,560, while experienced professionals earn up to $105,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$54,560

$-7,440 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$79,200

$-10,800 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$105,600

$-14,400 vs national

Percentile	Memphis	TN State	National
10th Percentile	$52,976	$54,782	$60,200
25th Percentile	$64,240	$66,430	$73,000
Median (50th)	$78,575	$81,254	$89,290
75th Percentile	$95,040	$98,280	$108,000
90th Percentile	$112,640	$116,480	$128,000

Percentile

Memphis

10th Percentile

$52,976

25th Percentile

$64,240

Median (50th)

$78,575

75th Percentile

$95,040

90th Percentile

$112,640

How to Become a Speech-Language Pathologist in Memphis

Education

Most speech-language pathologist positions require a master's degree. Memphis and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Speech AssessmentLanguage TherapySwallowing TherapyAAC DevicesDocumentationPatient Education

Job Outlook

Nationally, speech-language pathologist employment is projected to grow 19% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Memphis may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Speech-Language Pathologist Salary in Memphis

How much does a Speech-Language Pathologist make in Memphis, TN? ▼

The median speech-language pathologist salary in Memphis, Tennessee is $78,575 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $89,290. Salaries range from $52,976 (10th percentile) to $112,640 (90th percentile).

How much does a Speech-Language Pathologist make per hour in Memphis? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $78,575, a speech-language pathologist in Memphis earns approximately $38 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Memphis compare to the Tennessee state average for speech-language pathologist pay? ▼

Memphis's median speech-language pathologist salary of $78,575 is 3.3% below the Tennessee state average of $81,254. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Memphis, TN? ▼

Memphis has a cost of living index of 86% compared to the national average. This means a speech-language pathologist salary of $78,575 in Memphis has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a speech-language pathologist in Memphis? ▼

Most speech-language pathologist positions in Memphis require a master's degree. Key skills include Speech Assessment, Language Therapy, Swallowing Therapy, AAC Devices. The job market is projected to grow 19% nationally over the next decade.

Speech-Language Pathologist Salary in Memphis, Tennessee