Jackson vs Memphis: Actuary Salary (2026)
Compare actuary salaries between Jackson, TN and Memphis, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Jackson, TN | Memphis, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $124,254 | $132,794▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $59.74 | $63.84▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,864 | $77,020▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $91,889 | $100,391▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $159,045 | $169,976▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $192,594 | $205,830▲ |
| Total Employed | 16 | 122▲ |
Verdict
Memphis, TN offers better overall compensation for actuaries, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Jackson.
The salary gap between Jackson and Memphis is $8,540 (6.87%). Memphis's median is -1.02% compared to the US national median of $134,160.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Jackson spans $118,730,Memphis spans $128,810. Memphis has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced actuarys.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Memphis ($144,656 effective) pays 6.87% more than Jackson ($135,353 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Jackson if…
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Memphis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($132,794/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($205,830)
- ✓Larger job market (122 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $144,656)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, actuary salaries in Jackson grew 13.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.0% growth in Memphis over the same period.
Jackson, TN
$106,508 (2024) → $120,401 (2025)
Memphis, TN
$113,829 (2024) → $128,676 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Jackson, TN
Memphis, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays actuarys more: Jackson or Memphis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Jackson and Memphis?
Should I relocate from Jackson to Memphis as a actuary?
What do entry-level actuarys earn in Jackson vs Memphis?
Written by Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in life insurance. She specializes in risk assessment and pricing strategies.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.20% 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 Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA, a licensed actuary with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov