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

Memphis

Tennessee
68
VS

Allen

Texas
137

Memphis is 50% cheaper than Allen.

$1,123/mo ↓ 40%
Median Rent
$1,877/mo ↑ 67%
$51,211/yr ↓ 60%
Median Income
$129,130/yr ↑ 152%
$157,100 ↓ 63%
Home Value
$429,900 ↑ 174%
$1,087/mo ↓ 48%
Owner Costs
$2,083/mo ↑ 92%
629,063
Population
107,684

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
0%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
0.64%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

26.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Memphis, TN and Allen, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 68 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $754/month cheaper in Memphis, saving renters about $9,048/year.

Median household income is $77,919/year higher in Allen. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Memphis is $157,100 compared to $429,900 in Allen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Memphis vs Allen — common questions

Is Memphis or Allen cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Memphis is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 137 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Memphis and Allen?
Median rent in Memphis is $1,123/month and in Allen it's $1,877/month — a difference of $754/month.
Which city has higher income, Memphis or Allen?
Median household income is $51,211 in Memphis and $129,130 in Allen. Median household income is $77,919/year higher in Allen.
How do taxes compare between Tennessee and Texas?
Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Memphis or Allen?
It depends on your priorities. Memphis has a cost index of 68 with median rent of $1,123/mo, while Allen has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,877/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Memphis details → View Allen details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Memphis and Allen

Memphis vs. Detroit Memphis vs. Louisville Memphis vs. Portland Memphis vs. Baltimore Memphis vs. Las Vegas Memphis vs. Milwaukee Allen vs. Tuscaloosa Allen vs. New York Allen vs. Tyler Allen vs. Los Angeles Allen vs. Riverview Allen vs. Chicago