Memphis, TN vs Santa Rosa, CA: 68 vs 172

$1,123/mo ↓ 46%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 86%

$51,211/yr ↓ 47%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↑ 90%

$157,100 ↓ 77%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 336%

$1,087/mo ↓ 49%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 96%

629,063

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Memphis, TN and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 68 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $961/month cheaper in Memphis, saving renters about $11,532/year.

Median household income is $46,199/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Memphis is $157,100 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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 Rosa — common questions

Is Memphis or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Memphis is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Memphis and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Memphis is $1,123/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $961/month.

Which city has higher income, Memphis or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $51,211 in Memphis and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $46,199/year higher in Santa Rosa.

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 Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Memphis has a cost index of 68 with median rent of $1,123/mo, while Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with rent of $2,084/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Memphis

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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