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Graphic Designer Salary in Memphis, TN β€” 2026 Guide

Estimated salaries are adjusted for Memphis's cost of living (index: 84). National data from BLS OEWS 2024; city adjustments reflect local market conditions.

Graphic Designer Salary in Memphis β€” Key Numbers

$50,375
Median Salary
$36,851
25th Percentile
$68,594
75th Percentile
$90,023
90th Percentile
National median (Graphic Designer)$59,970
vs. National median-16.0%
Memphis median household income$50,200
vs. City household income+0.3%

Cost of Living in Memphis

Cost of Living Index
84(100 = avg)
Median Monthly Rent$908/mo
Rent-to-Income Ratio21.6%
Annual rent cost$10,896
Median Home Price$195,000
Home Price / Salary3.9Γ—
20% Down Payment$39,000
Years to save (20% rate)3.9 yrs

Rent-to-income below 28% is considered affordable; above 35% is cost-burdened. Home price multiple below 3Γ— is affordable; above 5Γ— is expensive by traditional guidelines.

Job Market in Memphis

5.4%
Unemployment Rate
1,360,000
Metro Population
24 min
Avg Commute
35.4
Median Age

Memphis has a metro population of 1,360,000, offering a sizeable job market with strong opportunities across key sectors. The 5.4% unemployment rate is near the national average.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Graphic Designer make in Memphis, TN?

The estimated median salary for a Graphic Designer in Memphis is $50,375 per year (2026). This is derived from the national BLS median of $59,970 adjusted by Memphis's cost of living index (84). The typical salary range runs from $36,851 (25th percentile) to $68,594 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $90,023.

Is Memphis affordable for a Graphic Designer?

On a $50,375 annual salary, a Graphic Designer in Memphis would spend approximately 21.6% of gross monthly income on median rent ($908/month). This is well within the 28% affordability threshold, making Memphis relatively affordable for this profession. The median home price of $195,000 is 3.9Γ— the annual salary.

How does a Graphic Designer's salary compare to Memphis's overall income?

Memphis's median household income is $50,200. A Graphic Designer earning the city-adjusted median of $50,375 earns 0.3% more than the typical Memphis household β€” placing them solidly in the middle-to-upper income tier for the city.

Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS, 2024 release. City salary estimates adjusted by cost of living index. City data from Census Bureau, BLS, Zillow, and ApartmentAdvisor (2024–2025). Last updated: March 2026.