Houston, TX vs Memphis, TN: 88 vs 68

$1,313/mo ↑ 17%

Median Rent

$1,123/mo ↓ 14%

$62,894/yr ↑ 23%

Median Income

$51,211/yr ↓ 19%

$253,400 ↑ 61%

Home Value

$157,100 ↓ 38%

$1,316/mo ↑ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,087/mo ↓ 17%

2,300,419

Population

629,063

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Memphis, TN, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 68 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $190/month cheaper in Memphis, saving renters about $2,280/year.

Median household income is $11,683/year higher in Houston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $157,100 in Memphis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Memphis — common questions

Is Houston or Memphis cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Memphis is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 88 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Memphis?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Memphis it's $1,123/month — a difference of $190/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Memphis?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $51,211 in Memphis. Median household income is $11,683/year higher in Houston.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Tennessee?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Memphis?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Memphis has a cost index of 68 with rent of $1,123/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Memphis, TN (2026)

Houston

Memphis

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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