Memphis, TN vs Little Rock, AR: 68 vs 74

$1,123/mo ↑ 5%

Median Rent

$1,067/mo ↓ 5%

$51,211/yr ↓ 15%

Median Income

$60,583/yr ↑ 18%

$157,100 ↓ 29%

Home Value

$221,200 ↑ 41%

$1,087/mo ↓ 1%

Owner Costs

$1,099/mo ↑ 1%

629,063

Population

202,739

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Memphis, TN and Little Rock, AR, the overall cost of living indices are 68 and 74 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $56/month cheaper in Little Rock, saving renters about $672/year.

Median household income is $9,372/year higher in Little Rock. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Memphis is $157,100 compared to $221,200 in Little Rock.

Tennessee has no state income tax, giving Memphis residents a significant tax advantage over Arkansas's 4.4% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Memphis vs Little Rock — common questions

Is Memphis or Little Rock cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Memphis is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 74 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Memphis and Little Rock?

Median rent in Memphis is $1,123/month and in Little Rock it's $1,067/month — a difference of $56/month.

Which city has higher income, Memphis or Little Rock?

Median household income is $51,211 in Memphis and $60,583 in Little Rock. Median household income is $9,372/year higher in Little Rock.

How do taxes compare between Tennessee and Arkansas?

Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. Arkansas has 4.4% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Memphis or Little Rock?

It depends on your priorities. Memphis has a cost index of 68 with median rent of $1,123/mo, while Little Rock has a cost index of 74 with rent of $1,067/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Memphis, TN vs Little Rock, AR (2026)

Memphis

Little Rock

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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