Memphis, TN vs Santa Ana, CA: 68 vs 163

$1,123/mo ↓ 43%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↑ 76%

$51,211/yr ↓ 42%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↑ 73%

$157,100 ↓ 76%

Home Value

$657,800 ↑ 319%

$1,087/mo ↓ 45%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↑ 81%

629,063

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Memphis, TN and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 68 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $852/month cheaper in Memphis, saving renters about $10,224/year.

Median household income is $37,143/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Memphis is $157,100 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

Tennessee has no state income tax, giving Memphis residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Memphis vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Memphis or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Memphis is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Memphis and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Memphis is $1,123/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $852/month.

Which city has higher income, Memphis or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $51,211 in Memphis and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $37,143/year higher in Santa Ana.

How do taxes compare between Tennessee and California?

Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Memphis or Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Memphis has a cost index of 68 with median rent of $1,123/mo, while Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with rent of $1,975/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Memphis, TN vs Santa Ana, CA (2026)

Memphis

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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