Software Engineer Salary in Memphis 2026

Quick Answer

Software Engineer Salary in Memphis: Full Breakdown

Based on the most recent BLS data available (2024), software engineers in Memphis earn an annual mean salary of $116,280. This figure reflects compensation for professionals classified under SOC code 15-1252 (Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers) working in the Memphis Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA code 32820).

The $116,280 annual salary translates to approximately $9,690 per month or $56 per hour (based on a standard 2,080-hour work year), providing a useful baseline for budgeting and financial planning.

Cost of Living Context

Memphis offers a notably lower cost of living compared to major tech hubs like San Francisco, Seattle, or New York. This means software engineers in Memphis can maintain a higher standard of living relative to their peers in coastal tech centers, even though the nominal salary may appear lower.

The affordability of Memphis is a significant advantage for software engineers considering relocation. Housing costs, in particular, are substantially below the national average, which allows professionals to allocate more of their income toward savings, investments, or lifestyle expenses.

Salary Trend Over Time

The BLS data shows that software engineer compensation in Memphis has been tracked through at least 2024. The $116,280 annual mean represents the most recent official benchmark for this occupation in the region. Monitoring year-over-year changes in this figure can help professionals understand wage growth trends in Memphis’s technology sector.

To stay current on salary trends, professionals should regularly review updated BLS OEWS reports, which are typically released annually and provide the most authoritative occupational wage data available.

Job Outlook

Software engineering continues to be a high-demand field nationally and regionally. Memphis, as a growing technology hub in the Mid-South, has been attracting tech talent and investment. The demand for software engineers in Memphis is driven by:

• Growth in healthcare technology and logistics software (reflecting Memphis’s strengths in healthcare and supply chain)
• Expansion of fintech and financial services companies
• Increasing digital transformation across traditional industries
• Remote work opportunities that allow companies to hire from Memphis

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth for software developer positions across the United States, making this an attractive career path for both entry-level and experienced professionals.

Top Employers for Software Engineers in Memphis

Memphis’s software engineering job market includes positions across healthcare, logistics, financial services, and technology companies. Major employers in the region span both established corporations and growing startups. Professionals seeking software engineering roles in Memphis should explore opportunities with:

• Healthcare organizations and medical device companies
• Logistics and supply chain management firms
• Financial services and banking institutions
• Manufacturing and industrial technology companies
• Local and regional technology startups

The diversity of employers across these sectors provides software engineers with varied career paths and specialization opportunities.

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FAQ

What is the starting salary for a software engineer in Memphis?

Entry-level software engineer positions in Memphis typically offer salaries below the $116,280 annual mean, with starting compensation generally ranging from $50,000 to $75,000 depending on education, certifications, and specific skills. Candidates with computer science degrees, bootcamp certifications, or relevant internship experience may command higher starting offers. The exact starting salary varies by employer, project complexity, and whether the role involves front-end, back-end, full-stack, or specialized development work.

How does software engineer salary in Memphis compare to the national average?

The national average for software engineers is typically higher than Memphis’s $116,280 figure, with major tech hubs like San Francisco, Seattle, and New York offering significantly higher nominal salaries—often in the $130,000–$180,000+ range. However, when adjusted for cost of living, Memphis’s lower housing and living expenses mean that a software engineer’s purchasing power and quality of life may be comparable to or better than in high-cost coastal cities. This makes Memphis an attractive option for professionals prioritizing affordability and work-life balance.

Is it worth moving to Memphis for a software engineer position?

Memphis can be an excellent relocation destination for software engineers, particularly those prioritizing affordable housing, lower cost of living, and a strong quality of life. The city’s growing tech sector, combined with its significantly lower housing costs compared to traditional tech centers, means software engineers can build wealth more quickly and enjoy a higher standard of living on the same salary. Additionally, Memphis offers cultural attractions, a vibrant music scene, and a welcoming community. Professionals should weigh these lifestyle factors against potential career advancement opportunities and networking benefits available in larger tech hubs.

What skills command the highest software engineer salaries in Memphis?

While specific salary data by skill set is not available in the current dataset, software engineers in high-demand specializations—such as cloud architecture (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), machine learning and AI, cybersecurity, and DevOps—typically earn above-average compensation. Full-stack developers with expertise in modern frameworks (React, Node.js, Python) and those with experience in healthcare IT or financial technology also tend to earn premium salaries in Memphis’s market.

How often does software engineer salary data get updated?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics releases OEWS wage data annually, typically in May. The most recent data available is from 2024, reflecting the $116,280 annual mean for software engineers in Memphis. Professionals should check the BLS website regularly for updated figures, as salary trends can shift year to year based on market demand, economic conditions, and regional growth.

What certifications can increase a software engineer’s earning potential in Memphis?

Industry-recognized certifications such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Microsoft Azure Administrator, Google Cloud Professional, Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA), and specialized security certifications (CISSP, CEH) can increase earning potential. Additionally, certifications in project management (PMP, Agile/Scrum) and specialized domains like healthcare IT compliance (HIPAA) may command premium compensation in Memphis’s growing healthcare technology sector.

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Data source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, 2024. Occupational data classified under SOC code 15-1252 for Memphis MSA (code 32820).

Last updated: April 10, 2026

Disclaimer: Salary data presented here is based on aggregated public sources and represents averages. Actual compensation varies significantly based on individual qualifications, experience, employer, specific role responsibilities, and market conditions. This content is informational and should not be construed as financial or career advice. Consult with recruiting professionals and career advisors for personalized guidance.