Memphis, TN vs Baton Rouge, LA: 68 vs 73

$1,123/mo ↑ 8%

Median Rent

$1,044/mo ↓ 7%

$51,211/yr ↑ 3%

Median Income

$49,944/yr ↓ 2%

$157,100 ↓ 30%

Home Value

$224,500 ↑ 43%

$1,087/mo ↑ 4%

Owner Costs

$1,043/mo ↓ 4%

629,063

Population

223,699

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Memphis, TN and Baton Rouge, LA, the overall cost of living indices are 68 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $79/month cheaper in Baton Rouge, saving renters about $948/year.

Median household income is $1,267/year higher in Memphis. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Memphis is $157,100 compared to $224,500 in Baton Rouge.

Tennessee has no state income tax, giving Memphis residents a significant tax advantage over Louisiana's 4.25% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Memphis vs Baton Rouge — common questions

Is Memphis or Baton Rouge cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Memphis is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 73 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Memphis and Baton Rouge?

Median rent in Memphis is $1,123/month and in Baton Rouge it's $1,044/month — a difference of $79/month.

Which city has higher income, Memphis or Baton Rouge?

Median household income is $51,211 in Memphis and $49,944 in Baton Rouge. Median household income is $1,267/year higher in Memphis.

How do taxes compare between Tennessee and Louisiana?

Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. Louisiana has 4.25% income tax, 4.45% sales tax, and 0.55% property tax.

Should I move to Memphis or Baton Rouge?

It depends on your priorities. Memphis has a cost index of 68 with median rent of $1,123/mo, while Baton Rouge has a cost index of 73 with rent of $1,044/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Memphis, TN vs Baton Rouge, LA (2026)

Memphis

Baton Rouge

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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