Cost of Living: Memphis, TN vs Murfreesboro, TN (2026)

Memphis

Tennessee
68
VS

Murfreesboro

Tennessee
105

Memphis is 35% cheaper than Murfreesboro.

$1,123/mo ↓ 18%
Median Rent
$1,376/mo ↑ 23%
$51,211/yr ↓ 33%
Median Income
$76,241/yr ↑ 49%
$157,100 ↓ 57%
Home Value
$365,100 ↑ 132%
$1,087/mo ↓ 24%
Owner Costs
$1,435/mo ↑ 32%
629,063
Population
157,547

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
0%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
7.0%
0.64%
Property Tax
0.64%

Affordability

26.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Memphis, TN and Murfreesboro, TN, the overall cost of living indices are 68 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $253/month cheaper in Memphis, saving renters about $3,036/year.

Median household income is $25,030/year higher in Murfreesboro. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Memphis is $157,100 compared to $365,100 in Murfreesboro.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Tennessee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Memphis vs Murfreesboro — common questions

Is Memphis or Murfreesboro cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Memphis is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 105 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Memphis and Murfreesboro?
Median rent in Memphis is $1,123/month and in Murfreesboro it's $1,376/month — a difference of $253/month.
Which city has higher income, Memphis or Murfreesboro?
Median household income is $51,211 in Memphis and $76,241 in Murfreesboro. Median household income is $25,030/year higher in Murfreesboro.
How do taxes compare between Tennessee and Tennessee?
Both cities are in Tennessee and share the same state tax rates: 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax.
Should I move to Memphis or Murfreesboro?
It depends on your priorities. Memphis has a cost index of 68 with median rent of $1,123/mo, while Murfreesboro has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,376/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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