Cost of Living: Memphis, TN vs Athens, GA (2026)

Memphis

Tennessee
68
VS

Athens

Georgia
83

Memphis is 18% cheaper than Athens.

$1,123/mo ↓ 3%
Median Rent
$1,162/mo ↑ 3%
$51,211/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$51,655/yr ≈ Same
$157,100 ↓ 42%
Home Value
$271,800 ↑ 73%
$1,087/mo ↓ 7%
Owner Costs
$1,163/mo ↑ 7%
629,063
Population
126,987

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
5.49%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
0.64%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

26.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
27.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Memphis, TN and Athens, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 68 and 83 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $444/year higher in Athens. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Memphis is $157,100 compared to $271,800 in Athens.

Tennessee has no state income tax, giving Memphis residents a significant tax advantage over Georgia's 5.49% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Memphis vs Athens — common questions

Is Memphis or Athens cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Memphis is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 83 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Memphis and Athens?
Median rent in Memphis is $1,123/month and in Athens it's $1,162/month — a difference of $39/month.
Which city has higher income, Memphis or Athens?
Median household income is $51,211 in Memphis and $51,655 in Athens. Median household income is $444/year higher in Athens.
How do taxes compare between Tennessee and Georgia?
Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Memphis or Athens?
It depends on your priorities. Memphis has a cost index of 68 with median rent of $1,123/mo, while Athens has a cost index of 83 with rent of $1,162/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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