Memphis vs Smyrna: Lawyer Salary (2026)
Compare lawyer salaries between Memphis, TN and Smyrna, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Memphis, TN | Smyrna, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $140,759▲ | $136,785 |
| Hourly Rate | $67.67▲ | $65.76 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,761 | $79,335▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $92,775 | $98,485▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $209,065▲ | $175,086 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $338,150▲ | $212,018 |
| Total Employed | 1,670▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Memphis, TN offers better overall compensation for lawyers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Smyrna.
The salary gap between Memphis and Smyrna is $3,974 (2.91%). Memphis's median is -15.80% compared to the US national median of $167,174.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Memphis spans $260,389,Smyrna spans $132,683. Memphis has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Memphis ($152,702 effective) pays 2.48% more than Smyrna ($149,003 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Memphis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($140,759/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($338,150)
- ✓Larger job market (1,670 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $152,702)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Smyrna if…
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, lawyer salaries in Memphis grew 47.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 10.0% growth in Smyrna over the same period.
Memphis, TN
$90,890 (2019) → $134,440 (2025)
Smyrna, TN
$118,772 (2024) → $130,645 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Memphis, TN
Smyrna, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays lawyers more: Memphis or Smyrna?
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Should I relocate from Memphis to Smyrna as a lawyer?
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Written by Alexandra Chen, JD
Career Analyst
Alexandra has 10 years of experience in corporate law. She specializes in mergers and acquisitions. Alexandra works at a mid-sized law firm in New York City.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.70% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Alexandra Chen, JD, a licensed lawyer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov