In Memphis, TN, Registered Nurses earn a median of $77,290 a year — about 18% below the U.S. median of $94,480. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #49.
What that pay is worth in Memphis
Local prices run 92 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $82,140 salary stretches further than the sticker number — about $89,109 in national-average buying power.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Memphis?
A typical Memphis home runs about $157,100 — 1.9 times the average Registered Nurse salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,123/mo takes roughly 16% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Registered Nurse pay ladder in Memphis
Entry-level (10th percentile) Registered Nurses earn about $62,190; the top 10% reach $104,790 — a $42,600 spread, moderate for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Registered Nurse job market in Memphis
Memphis employs roughly 12,760 Registered Nurses. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Memphis with other cities
See the full Registered Nurse 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 Registered Nurses make in Memphis?
The average Registered Nurse in Memphis, TN earns about $82,140 per year, 13.1% below the national average of $94,480.
What is the take-home pay for Registered Nurses in Memphis after taxes?
After federal and TN taxes, this $82,140 salary is worth about $66,615 a year - roughly $5,551 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 19%.
What do the highest-paid Registered Nurses earn in Memphis?
The top 10% of Registered Nurses in Memphis earn about $104,790 a year, versus about $62,190 for the bottom 10%.
Can Registered Nurses afford a home in Memphis?
A typical Memphis home runs about $157,100 - roughly 1.9x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.