Memphis, TN vs Atlanta, GA: 68 vs 122

$1,123/mo ↓ 31%

Median Rent

$1,617/mo ↑ 44%

$51,211/yr ↓ 38%

Median Income

$81,938/yr ↑ 60%

$157,100 ↓ 63%

Home Value

$420,600 ↑ 168%

$1,087/mo ↓ 36%

Owner Costs

$1,695/mo ↑ 56%

629,063

Population

499,287

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Memphis, TN and Atlanta, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 68 and 122 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $494/month cheaper in Memphis, saving renters about $5,928/year.

Median household income is $30,727/year higher in Atlanta. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Memphis is $157,100 compared to $420,600 in Atlanta.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Memphis vs Atlanta — common questions

Is Memphis or Atlanta cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Memphis is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 122 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Memphis and Atlanta?

Median rent in Memphis is $1,123/month and in Atlanta it's $1,617/month — a difference of $494/month.

Which city has higher income, Memphis or Atlanta?

Median household income is $51,211 in Memphis and $81,938 in Atlanta. Median household income is $30,727/year higher in Atlanta.

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 Atlanta?

It depends on your priorities. Memphis has a cost index of 68 with median rent of $1,123/mo, while Atlanta has a cost index of 122 with rent of $1,617/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Memphis

Atlanta

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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