Memphis, Tennessee—a vibrant hub of culture, industry, and historic neighborhoods—offers numerous opportunities for skilled tradespeople like handymen. As homeowners and businesses seek reliable maintenance services, the demand for handyman professionals continues to grow. In 2026, this trade remains both accessible and financially rewarding, especially for those with experience and specialized skills.
This article dives into the Handyman salary in Memphis, TN for 2026, detailing average pay, experience-based wages, influencing factors, job outlook, benefits, and how Memphis compares with nearby cities.
Average Handyman Salary in Memphis, TN
Handyman pay in Memphis can vary, but data from recent salary reports shows a solid earning range for professionals in this field.
Estimated Salary Overview
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Hourly Wage | $27.07 per hour (Indeed data) |
| Typical Annual Salary | $46,000 – $68,000 (Glassdoor estimate) |
| Median Annual Pay | ~$56,000 per year (Glassdoor estimate) |
| Overtime Pay | ~$6,250 annually (Indeed) |
In general, handymen in Memphis earn between roughly $45,000 and $70,000+ annually, with variations based on experience, specialization, and employer type.
Handyman Salary by Experience
Experience significantly influences earnings. More seasoned handymen typically command higher wages due to their broader skill set and ability to tackle complex tasks.
Breakdown by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Typical Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 years) | $35,000 – $45,000 |
| Mid-Level (3–6 years) | $45,000 – $58,000 |
| Experienced / Senior (7+ years) | $58,000 – $70,000+ |
These ranges reflect broader local market data and trends for handymen working in residential and commercial roles in Memphis.
Factors That Influence Handyman Earnings
Several key factors determine how much a handyman can earn in Memphis:
1. Skill Set and Expertise
Handymen with diverse skills—such as carpentry, minor electrical work, plumbing fixes, painting, and drywall—usually earn more than those with basic repair skills.
2. Experience Level
As shown above, more experience often leads to higher wages and the ability to work on bigger projects.
3. Type of Work
Residential maintenance tends to pay differently than commercial contracts. Commercial work may offer higher consistent pay.
4. Certifications and Training
While licensing isn’t always required for general handyman tasks in Tennessee, additional training or trade certifications (e.g., OSHA safety, specialty carpentry) can make a professional more competitive and increase earning potential.
5. Employment Type
Self-employed handymen or independent contractors may earn more but must manage their own overhead costs (tools, insurance, transport) compared with salaried positions.
Job Market Trends for Handyman Professionals in Memphis
Handyman work is generally stable and in demand in Memphis due to:
Ongoing home repairs and renovations
Increasing aging housing stock
Commercial property maintenance needs
Growth in local rental markets and property management services
Trends in 2026
More homeowners are investing in maintenance and upgrades post-pandemic.
Businesses increasingly seek reliable maintenance technicians for facilities.
Skilled handymen with broader trade know-how are particularly sought after.
Benefits of Working as a Handyman in Memphis
Aside from salary, there are several benefits and advantages tied to making a career as a handyman:
✔ Job Flexibility
Many handymen can choose freelance or contract work or remain with an employer.
✔ Skill Diversity
A broad skill set can allow for higher pay and career flexibility.
✔ Demand Stability
Routine home and business repairs ensure consistent work opportunities.
✔ Potential for Business Growth
Experienced handymen can start their own service business, expanding their earning potential beyond standard wages.
Hourly Rates and Pay Structures
Many handyman jobs are paid hourly, though some professionals also negotiate flat rates for certain jobs.
Hourly Rate Trends in Memphis
Average reported hourly rate: around $27 per hour
Typical job postings list $28–$30 per hour roles for qualified technicians.
Some experienced professionals command higher rates or negotiate project-based pricing.
Local job listings also show variations, with some employers offering $34–$40 per hour roles, particularly for skilled or specialized handyman jobs.
Comparison with Nearby Cities
For broader perspective, here’s how handyman earnings in Memphis compare with a nearby Tennessee city:
| City | Typical Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Memphis, TN | $46,000 – $68,000+ |
| Nashville, TN (Mr. Handyman level) | ~$60,500+ |
While Nashville roles (especially with national companies) may present higher averages, Memphis offers competitive pay with a lower cost of living.
Tips to Maximize Handyman Earnings in Memphis
Whether you’re starting out or looking to grow, here’s how you can increase your earnings:
⭐ Expand Your Skill Set
Learn multiple trades (e.g., carpentry, minor electrical, painting, installation) to take on more jobs.
⭐ Consider Certifications
While not always mandatory, certifications or trade school training can make you more marketable.
⭐ Focus on Customer Service
Repeat business and referrals can significantly increase income.
⭐ Specialize in Lucrative Niches
Certain services (built-ins, custom fixtures, minor renovations) can command higher rates.
⭐ Negotiate Project-Based Pricing
For larger jobs, flat fees can often yield more than hourly billing.
Outlook for 2026 and Beyond
The handyman field in Memphis shows steady demand with opportunities for growth, especially for individuals willing to diversify their skills and differentiate themselves in the market.
Steady employment opportunities in residential and commercial sectors
Potential entrepreneurial growth for self-employed professionals
Increased demand thanks to renovation and property maintenance trends
If you’re considering a career as a handyman or thinking about expanding your services, Memphis is a market with strong potential and solid compensation levels for skilled workers.