In Memphis, TN, Mechanical Engineers earn a median of $99,990 a year — about 5% below the U.S. median of $105,220. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #23.
What that pay is worth in Memphis
Local prices run 92 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $97,200 salary stretches further than the sticker number — about $105,447 in national-average buying power.
Can Mechanical Engineers afford a home in Memphis?
A typical Memphis home runs about $157,100 — 1.6 times the average Mechanical Engineer salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,123/mo takes roughly 14% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Mechanical Engineer pay ladder in Memphis
Entry-level (10th percentile) Mechanical Engineers earn about $63,470; the top 10% reach $132,250 — a $68,780 spread, wide for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Mechanical Engineer job market in Memphis
Memphis employs roughly 390 Mechanical Engineers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Memphis with other cities
See the full Mechanical Engineer salary by city ranking to weigh Memphis against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Mechanical Engineers make in Memphis?
The average Mechanical Engineer in Memphis, TN earns about $97,200 per year, 7.6% below the national average of $105,220.
What is the take-home pay for Mechanical Engineers in Memphis after taxes?
After federal and TN taxes, this $97,200 salary is worth about $77,210 a year - roughly $6,434 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 21%.
What do the highest-paid Mechanical Engineers earn in Memphis?
The top 10% of Mechanical Engineers in Memphis earn about $132,250 a year, versus about $63,470 for the bottom 10%.
Can Mechanical Engineers afford a home in Memphis?
A typical Memphis home runs about $157,100 - roughly 1.6x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.