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

Memphis

Tennessee
68
VS

Killeen

Texas
75

Memphis is 9% cheaper than Killeen.

$1,123/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,147/mo ↑ 2%
$51,211/yr ↓ 12%
Median Income
$58,339/yr ↑ 14%
$157,100 ↓ 20%
Home Value
$196,000 ↑ 25%
$1,087/mo ↓ 8%
Owner Costs
$1,176/mo ↑ 8%
629,063
Population
156,144

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
23.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Memphis, TN and Killeen, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 68 and 75 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $7,128/year higher in Killeen. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Memphis is $157,100 compared to $196,000 in Killeen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Memphis vs Killeen — common questions

Is Memphis or Killeen cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Memphis is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 75 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Memphis and Killeen?
Median rent in Memphis is $1,123/month and in Killeen it's $1,147/month — a difference of $24/month.
Which city has higher income, Memphis or Killeen?
Median household income is $51,211 in Memphis and $58,339 in Killeen. Median household income is $7,128/year higher in Killeen.
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 Killeen?
It depends on your priorities. Memphis has a cost index of 68 with median rent of $1,123/mo, while Killeen has a cost index of 75 with rent of $1,147/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Memphis details → View Killeen details →

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