RateOrchard
METRO DATA PROFILE · 2024

Computer Programmers salary in Memphis, Tennessee

Metro-level median, range, and employment from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics for the Memphis metropolitan area. Skills and task data from O*NET. State and national figures shown for context.

Adrian Serafin, founder and editor of RateOrchardBy Adrian SerafinFounderUpdated April 30, 2026
Median annual$77,880
Mean annual$91,220
Range (10th to 90th)$52,000 to $138,560
Memphis, Tennessee employment140
State vs national-21.0% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Memphis computer programmers fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)

10TH$52,00025TH$56,050MEDIAN$77,88075TH$102,95090TH$138,560

The middle 50% of workers earn between $56,050 and $102,950, with a median of $77,880.

Typical entry

  • Education

    Bachelor's degree

  • Experience

    None

  • On-the-job training

    None

Top skills (O*NET)

  • Computers and Electronics

    Knowledge

    4.9 / 5
  • Programming

    Technical

    4.8 / 5
  • Written Comprehension

    Ability

    4.0 / 5
  • Oral Comprehension

    Ability

    3.9 / 5
  • Near Vision

    Ability

    3.9 / 5
  • Critical Thinking

    Cross-functional

    3.8 / 5
  • Active Listening

    Basic skill

    3.8 / 5
  • Complex Problem Solving

    Technical

    3.8 / 5

Common tasks (O*NET)

  1. 01

    Write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs, using workflow chart and diagram, and applying knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, and symbolic logic.

  2. 02

    Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced.

  3. 03

    Perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.

  4. 04

    Write, update, and maintain computer programs or software packages to handle specific jobs such as tracking inventory, storing or retrieving data, or controlling other equipment.

  5. 05

    Consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes.

  6. 06

    Conduct trial runs of programs and software applications to be sure they will produce the desired information and that the instructions are correct.

  7. 07

    Prepare detailed workflow charts and diagrams that describe input, output, and logical operation, and convert them into a series of instructions coded in a computer language.

  8. 08

    Compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions, inserting comments in the coded instructions so others can understand the program.

Sponsored

Build the skills employers list for Computer Programmers

Online courses from licensed providers. We may earn a commission when you enroll. The commission does not influence our rankings or wage data.

Explore courses

Other metros in Tennessee

How the Memphis metro compares to other major Tennessee metro areas for computer programmers.

Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Computer Programmers in Memphis, Tennessee?
According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Computer Programmers in the Memphis metropolitan area is $77,880.
Does Memphis pay more than the Tennessee state average for Computer Programmers?
The Memphis metro median is -21.5% versus the Tennessee state median of $99,270.
How does Memphis compare to the national median for Computer Programmers?
The Memphis metro median is -21.0% versus the BLS national figure of $98,561.
What is the salary range for Computer Programmers in Memphis?
BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $52,000 and the 90th-percentile at $138,560 for the Memphis metro area.
What education is required for Computer Programmers?
BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Bachelor's degree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.
Disclaimer

Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the Memphis CBSA boundary for the reference year shown and may not match individual offers, employer-specific ranges, or current market conditions. Confirm with a licensed professional before making career or compensation decisions.