Memphis, TN vs Fort Lauderdale, FL: 68 vs 132

$1,123/mo ↓ 37%

Median Rent

$1,776/mo ↑ 58%

$51,211/yr ↓ 36%

Median Income

$79,935/yr ↑ 56%

$157,100 ↓ 66%

Home Value

$455,600 ↑ 190%

$1,087/mo ↓ 39%

Owner Costs

$1,778/mo ↑ 64%

629,063

Population

183,032

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Memphis, TN and Fort Lauderdale, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 68 and 132 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $653/month cheaper in Memphis, saving renters about $7,836/year.

Median household income is $28,724/year higher in Fort Lauderdale. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Memphis is $157,100 compared to $455,600 in Fort Lauderdale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Memphis vs Fort Lauderdale — common questions

Is Memphis or Fort Lauderdale cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Memphis is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 132 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Memphis and Fort Lauderdale?

Median rent in Memphis is $1,123/month and in Fort Lauderdale it's $1,776/month — a difference of $653/month.

Which city has higher income, Memphis or Fort Lauderdale?

Median household income is $51,211 in Memphis and $79,935 in Fort Lauderdale. Median household income is $28,724/year higher in Fort Lauderdale.

How do taxes compare between Tennessee and Florida?

Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.

Should I move to Memphis or Fort Lauderdale?

It depends on your priorities. Memphis has a cost index of 68 with median rent of $1,123/mo, while Fort Lauderdale has a cost index of 132 with rent of $1,776/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Memphis, TN vs Fort Lauderdale, FL (2026)

Memphis

Fort Lauderdale

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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