Cost of Living: Memphis, TN vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Memphis

Tennessee
68
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Memphis is 24% cheaper than Spokane.

$1,123/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↑ 2%
$51,211/yr ↓ 22%
Median Income
$65,745/yr ↑ 28%
$157,100 ↓ 52%
Home Value
$326,200 ↑ 108%
$1,087/mo ↓ 10%
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ↑ 12%
629,063
Population
229,228

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
0%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
0.64%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

26.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Memphis, TN and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 68 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $14,534/year higher in Spokane. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Memphis is $157,100 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

Frequently Asked Questions

Memphis vs Spokane — common questions

Is Memphis or Spokane cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Memphis is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Memphis and Spokane?
Median rent in Memphis is $1,123/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $18/month.
Which city has higher income, Memphis or Spokane?
Median household income is $51,211 in Memphis and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $14,534/year higher in Spokane.
How do taxes compare between Tennessee and Washington?
Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Memphis or Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Memphis has a cost index of 68 with median rent of $1,123/mo, while Spokane has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,141/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Memphis details → View Spokane details →

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