Memphis, TN

Very Low · 68

Tennessee · Population 629,063 · Updated March 2026

$1,123
Median Rent / Month
$51,211
Median Income
$157,100
Median Home Value
$1,087
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Memphis

26.3%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Moderate
Rent takes 25-35% of median income — moderate affordability.

Tax Burden in Tennessee

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

0%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
7.0%
Sales Tax
0.64%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$13,476
Annual Rent
$0
State Income Tax
$1,005
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Memphis is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 68 (where 100 equals the national median), Memphis residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,123/month while earning a median household income of $51,211/year.

The median home value in Memphis, TN is $157,100, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,087 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. With a rent-to-income ratio of 26.3%, Memphis falls within the generally affordable range, though it's approaching the 30% burden threshold.

Tennessee has no state income tax, which can represent significant savings compared to high-tax states. Combined with a 7.0% sales tax rate and 0.64% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment helps keep costs manageable in Memphis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Memphis

What is the cost of living in Memphis, TN?
The cost of living index in Memphis, TN is 68 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,123, median household income is $51,211/year, and the median home value is $157,100.
Is Memphis, TN affordable?
Yes, Memphis is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 68. The rent-to-income ratio is 26.3%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Memphis, TN?
The median gross rent in Memphis, TN is $1,123 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $13,476.
What is the median household income in Memphis?
The median household income in Memphis, TN is $51,211 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Tennessee?
Tennessee has a top income tax rate of 0%, a sales tax of 7.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.64%. Notably, there is no state income tax.

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