Urban Planner Salary in Memphis, Tennessee
The median urban planner salary in Memphis, TN is $68,404 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 3.4% below the Tennessee state average.
Urban Planner Pay in Memphis: What to Expect (2026)
Memphis offers a median urban planner salary of $68,404, which is $2,387 below the Tennessee state average of $70,791. Compared to the national median of $79,540, 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 $68,404 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $79,540 in an average-cost city. This makes Memphis an attractive option for urban planners seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for urban planners in Memphis spans from $43,000 at the 10th percentile to $104,920 at the 90th percentile — a $61,920 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $44,720, while senior urban planners with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $101,480. 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.
Urban Planner Salary in Memphis by Experience
In Memphis, an entry-level urban planner earns around $44,720, while experienced professionals earn up to $101,480 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Memphis, TN
| Percentile | Memphis |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $43,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $54,180 |
| Median (50th) | $68,404 |
| 75th Percentile | $86,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $104,920 |
Urban Planner Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Urban Planner in Memphis
Education
Most urban planner positions require a master's degree. Memphis and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, urban planner employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Memphis may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Urban Planner Jobs in Memphis
Browse open urban planner positions in Memphis, TN: