Construction Manager in Memphis, TN

The Salary Picture: Where Memphis Stands

If you're a Construction Manager (CM) eyeing Memphis, let's cut straight to the numbers. The median salary for a Construction Manager in the Memphis metro is $105,742 per year, which breaks down to $50.84 per hour. That's slightly below the national average of $108,210, but before you write it off, consider this: Memphis's cost of living is your secret weapon. With a Cost of Living Index of 92.4 (100 = U.S. average), your paycheck stretches further here than it does in most major cities.

The local job market is solid for this role. There are approximately 1,237 construction management positions in the metro, and the 10-year job growth is projected at 8%. This isn't explosive growth, but it's steady—reflecting the city's stable demand for infrastructure, commercial build-outs, and ongoing residential projects.

To give you a clearer picture of where you might fall in that salary range, here's a typical experience-based breakdown. Note that these are industry-standard estimates based on Memphis's market conditions.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities in Memphis
Entry-Level (Project Engineer/Assistant)	$65,000 - $80,000	Submittals, RFI management, field coordination, basic scheduling on smaller projects (e.g., local retail fit-outs, small commercial).
Mid-Level (Project Manager)	$90,000 - $115,000	Running full projects, managing subcontractors, budget oversight, client communication. This is roughly the median range.
Senior-Level (Senior PM/Project Executive)	$120,000 - $150,000+	Overseeing multiple projects, high-level risk management, business development, mentoring. Common with large healthcare or industrial work.
Expert/Executive (Director, VP)	$155,000 - $200,000+	Strategic leadership for a region or division, major client relationships, P&L responsibility. Often with national firms like Turner or McCarthy.

Local Insight: The gap between the Memphis median ($105,742) and the national average ($108,210) is minimal. The real differentiator here is the industry you're in. Specialties like healthcare construction (think Methodist Le Bonheur or Baptist Memorial expansions) or advanced manufacturing (in the industrial corridors) often command premiums of 10-15% above the median, as they require more specialized knowledge.

How Memphis Compares to Other Tennessee Cities:

• Nashville: Salaries are higher (median closer to $115k), but the cost of living is significantly steeper, especially housing. The market is more competitive.
• Knoxville: Salaries are slightly lower than Memphis, and the job market is smaller, more focused on residential and university work.
• Chattanooga: Similar salary scale to Memphis but with a tighter, more niche job market, often tied to automotive and outdoor industry projects.

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the base number. In Memphis, benefits are a key part of the package. Many local firms, especially the large family-owned ones, offer strong profit-sharing, 401(k) matches, and vehicle allowances. These can add $15k-$25k in annual value.

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The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get practical. A median salary of $105,742 sounds good, but what does it mean for your day-to-day life in Memphis? We'll use a standard tax estimate (federal, state, FICA) and the local average rent to build a monthly budget.

Estimated Monthly Take-Home Pay (after taxes):

• Gross Monthly: $8,812
• Estimated Deductions (25-28%): ~$2,300 - $2,467
• Net Monthly Take-Home: ~$6,345 - $6,512 (This is a conservative estimate; use a paycheck calculator for your exact situation).

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Construction Manager:

Expense Category	Estimated Cost	Notes for Memphis
Housing (1BR Apartment)	$1,146	The city average. You can find older apartments in Midtown for $950-$1,100 or new builds in East Memphis for $1,300-$1,500.
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet)	$250 - $350	Summers are hot and humid (high A/C bills). Winters are mild.
Groceries & Household	$500 - $600	Memphis has great local markets (Miss Cordelia's, high point) and standard chains.
Transportation	$400 - $600	This varies wildly. If you live and work in the same area, gas is cheap. A commute from the suburbs will cost more. Car insurance is higher in TN.
Health Insurance (Employer-Sponsored)	$300 - $500	Premiums vary by employer.
Savings & Debt	$1,000 - $1,500	This is the key. After all expenses, you should have a healthy amount to put toward retirement, student loans, or savings.
Discretionary (Food, Fun, etc.)	$1,000 - $1,500	Memphis has a fantastic and affordable food scene. Country music, Grizzlies games, and riverfront activities are plentiful.

Total Estimated Monthly Expenses: $4,596 - $5,696
Remaining (Savings/Debt): ~$650 - $1,916

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
Absolutely. This is where Memphis shines for professionals. The median home price in the Memphis metro is around $280,000. With a $105,742 salary and a solid credit score (720+), you're in a strong position. A 20% down payment ($56,000) is ideal, but many conventional and FHA loans require less. Your estimated mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) on a $280k home would be roughly $1,600 - $1,800/month. Compared to renting, this is often a wash or even cheaper, and you build equity.

Insider Tip: Property taxes in Shelby County are relatively low compared to other metros. Always factor in the cost of homeowners insurance, which can be higher due to the region's risk of severe weather (tornadoes, storms).

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Where the Jobs Are: Memphis's Major Employers

The Memphis construction scene is dominated by a mix of large national firms with a major local footprint and strong, family-owned regional powerhouses. Here are the key players you need to know.

1. Turner Construction Company: A global leader with a significant Memphis office. They handle massive projects, especially in healthcare (St. Jude, Le Bonheur) and commercial sectors. Stable, with great training. Hiring is often for experienced PMs and superintendents.
2. McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.: Another national giant with a deep Memphis presence. They are heavily invested in healthcare (Baptist, Methodist) and higher education. Known for a strong safety culture and complex project work.
3. Brasfield & Gorrie: Based in Birmingham but a powerhouse in the Southeast. Their Memphis office is active in healthcare, industrial, and sports/recreation facilities. They have a reputation for being a great place to grow your career.
4. Walsh Construction: A large, family-owned firm with a strong Midwest and Southeast presence. Their Memphis team works on diverse projects, from senior living to multifamily and higher ed.
5. D.A. Dodd & Sons, Inc.: A true Memphis staple. This family-owned firm has been building the city for decades, specializing in commercial, industrial, and institutional projects. They offer a more local, relationship-driven work environment.
6. Gilbert & Sons Construction: Another long-standing local name, focused on commercial, industrial, and renovation projects. They are known for handling complex historic renovations in the downtown and Midtown areas.
7. Metro Construction: A significant player in the retail and commercial tenant improvement market. If you're interested in the fast-paced world of retail build-outs for national brands, this is a key employer.

Hiring Trends: The biggest driver in Memphis right now is healthcare. With Methodist, Baptist, St. Jude, and the new VA hospital, the healthcare construction pipeline is massive. Industrial is also booming, with new manufacturing and distribution centers popping up near the airport and along I-40/I-55. Multifamily and mixed-use are strong in Downtown, Midtown, and the developing South Main district.

Insider Tip: Many of these firms post jobs on their own websites first. Check them regularly. Also, the Greater Memphis Chamber's job board and local industry-specific recruiters are valuable resources.

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Getting Licensed in TN

Tennessee does not have a state-level license specifically for "Construction Managers." Licensing is handled by the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors (TBLIC) and focuses on the contractor performing the physical work, not necessarily the manager overseeing it. However, to be qualified to manage projects, you will need relevant credentials.

1. Professional Certifications (Most Important):

   • Certified Construction Manager (CCM): Offered by the CMAA. This is the gold standard and highly respected by employers like Turner and McCarthy. It requires a mix of education and experience (typically 4 years for non-degree holders, 8 years with a degree). Cost: Exam + application fees (~$1,250).
   • Project Management Professional (PMP): Offered by PMI. Widely recognized across industries, useful for managing complex schedules and budgets.
   • LEED AP: If you're interested in sustainable building, this is valuable, especially for university and corporate projects.

2. State Contractor Licensing (If You Own a Business):

   • If you plan to start your own company and sign contracts, you'll need a Tennessee Contractor's License. This is a multi-step process:
   • Financial Statement: You must show net worth (minimum $100,000 for a commercial license).
   • Proof of Experience: You need to document relevant experience.
   • Passing an Exam: The exam covers business and law, and trade-specific knowledge.
   • Bonding & Insurance: You'll need a surety bond and general liability insurance.
   • Cost: Application and exam fees are around $500, but the financial and insurance requirements are the real investment.

Timeline to Get Started:

• For a CM Job: No state license is required to be hired. Start applying with your resume highlighting experience and any current certifications. You can pursue your CCM or PMP while working.
• For Starting a Business: The process can take 3-6 months from application to receiving your license, assuming you have your financials and experience in order.

Insider Tip: Even if you don't get licensed in TN, having a license from another state can be a huge plus on your resume, as it shows you understand regulatory frameworks.

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Best Neighborhoods for Construction Managers

Where you live in Memphis impacts your commute and daily life. Here’s a breakdown of top areas for a working professional.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Why It's Good for CMs
East Memphis / Poplar Corridor	Upscale, corporate, quiet. Easy access to I-240 and I-40. 15-20 min commute to most jobs.	$1,200 - $1,600	Close to major employers (Methodist HQ, large banks), great restaurants, and excellent schools. The go-to for families.
Midtown	Historic, walkable, artsy. Central to everything. Commute is easy to downtown or any major corridor.	$1,000 - $1,400	Younger, vibrant energy. Home to the Zoo, Overton Park, and a thriving food scene. More apartments and historic homes.
Downtown / South Main	Urban, modern, active. Walk to work if you're on a project in the core.	$1,400 - $1,800	Ideal for those who want a city vibe. Close to Grizzlies games, riverwalk, and new developments. Parking can be a challenge.
Germantown/Collierville	Suburban, family-friendly, top-rated schools. Commute to downtown is 30-45 min.	$1,300 - $1,700	If you have a family and prioritize schools and safety, this is the spot. More single-family homes with yards.
The Harbor / Cordova	Affordable, convenient to I-40 and the airport. 20-25 min commute to most areas.	$950 - $1,200	Great value for renters. Close to large retail centers and easy access to the industrial corridors east of the city.

Insider Tip: Traffic in Memphis is generally manageable, but the bridge over the Mississippi River (I-40) can be a major bottleneck. If your job is in the city center and you live in Arkansas (West Memphis), that commute will be tough. It's often better to stay in Shelby County.

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The Long Game: Career Growth

A Construction Manager career in Memphis offers solid, long-term potential. The city's growth isn't explosive, but it's resilient and diverse.

Specialty Premiums & Advancement Paths:

• Healthcare: As mentioned, this is the top earner. Specializing in hospital construction, with knowledge of infection control (ICRA) and complex MEP systems, can push you toward the $130k+ range.
• Industrial & Logistics: With Amazon's massive presence and ongoing distribution projects, expertise in tilt-up concrete, steel erection, and large-scale site work is highly valued.
• Historic Renovation: Memphis has a rich architectural history. Expertise in adaptive reuse (turning old buildings into modern lofts or offices) is a niche but lucrative skill, often with projects in the South Main and downtown areas.
• Path to Leadership: The typical path is Project Engineer -> Assistant Project Manager -> Project Manager -> Senior PM -> Project Executive -> Regional Director. This can take 8-15 years. Networking with the local chapters of the CMAA and AGC (Associated General Contractors) is critical for advancement.

10-Year Outlook:
The 8% job growth is sustainable. Key projects on the horizon include continued expansion of the healthcare sector, possible updates to the convention center (Renasant Convention Center), and ongoing infrastructure work funded by state and federal grants. The city's status as a logistics hub will continue to drive warehouse and distribution center construction. While Nashville's boom is more volatile, Memphis's growth is steady, offering more stability for long-term career planning.

Insider Tip: Many senior PMs in Memphis move into owner's representative roles—for a hospital system, a university, or a large corporation. This shift often comes with better work-life balance and a similar or higher salary, leveraging your deep construction knowledge from the other side of the table.

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The Verdict: Is Memphis Right for You?

Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons.

Pros	Cons
Excellent Cost of Living. Your salary goes much further than in Nashville, Austin, or Atlanta.	Public Transportation is Limited. You will need a reliable car.
Stable, Diverse Job Market. Healthcare, industrial, and education provide a recession-resistant foundation.	Climate Challenges. Hot, humid summers and the risk of severe weather (tornadoes, ice storms).
Rich Culture & Food Scene. World-class BBQ, blues history, and minor league sports (Grizzlies, Redbirds). Affordable entertainment.	Lower Salaries vs. National. The median is below the U.S. average, though the COL adjustment often makes it a wash.
Friendly, "Hometown" Feel. The business community is tight-knit. Networking is easier than in bigger cities.	Some Areas Have Higher Crime. Like many cities, crime varies greatly by neighborhood. Research is essential.
Major Hub for Travel. Memphis International (MEM) is a Delta hub and home to FedEx's global headquarters. Easy to get anywhere.	Slower Pace. If you crave relentless, 24/7 city energy, Memphis might feel quiet.

Final Recommendation:
Memphis is an excellent choice for a Construction Manager who values work-life balance, affordability, and steady career growth over chasing the highest possible salary in a hyper-competitive market. It's ideal for mid-career professionals looking to buy a home, raise a family, and build a strong local network. If you specialize in healthcare or industrial work, you'll find ample opportunities and competitive pay. It’s not the place for someone seeking the frantic pace of a Nashville or Austin, but for those who want a rewarding career and a high quality of life, Memphis is a hidden gem.

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FAQs

Q: I have a construction management degree and 5 years of experience. How long will it take to find a job in Memphis?
A: With the right experience (especially in healthcare, commercial, or industrial), you could find a role in 1-4 months. The key is to start applying before you move. Use LinkedIn to connect with recruiters