Memphis vs Oak Ridge: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Memphis, TN and Oak Ridge, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Memphis, TN | Oak Ridge, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $62,113▲ | $59,276 |
| Hourly Rate | $29.86▲ | $28.50 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $48,632▲ | $44,467 |
| 25th Percentile | $53,196▲ | $53,034 |
| 75th Percentile | $65,223 | $74,106▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $77,381 | $91,879▲ |
| Total Employed | 5,410▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Memphis, TN offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Oak Ridge.
The salary gap between Memphis and Oak Ridge is $2,837 (4.79%). Memphis's median is -3.85% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Memphis spans $28,749,Oak Ridge spans $47,412. Oak Ridge has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced elementary school teachers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Memphis ($67,383 effective) pays 4.36% more than Oak Ridge ($64,571 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 ($62,113/year)
- ✓Larger job market (5,410 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,383)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Oak Ridge if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($91,879)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Memphis grew 10.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.4% growth in Oak Ridge over the same period.
Memphis, TN
$55,550 (2019) → $61,510 (2025)
Oak Ridge, TN
$52,240 (2024) → $58,701 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Memphis, TN
Oak Ridge, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Memphis or Oak Ridge?
What is the hourly rate difference between Memphis and Oak Ridge?
Should I relocate from Memphis to Oak Ridge as a elementary school teacher?
What do entry-level elementary school teachers earn in Memphis vs Oak Ridge?
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Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% 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 Jordan Lee, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov