Phoenix, AZ vs Memphis, TN: 109 vs 68

$1,458/mo ↑ 30%

Median Rent

$1,123/mo ↓ 23%

$77,041/yr ↑ 50%

Median Income

$51,211/yr ↓ 34%

$381,900 ↑ 143%

Home Value

$157,100 ↓ 59%

$1,430/mo ↑ 32%

Owner Costs

$1,087/mo ↓ 24%

1,624,832

Population

629,063

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Memphis, TN, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 68 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $335/month cheaper in Memphis, saving renters about $4,020/year.

Median household income is $25,830/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $157,100 in Memphis.

Tennessee has no state income tax, giving Memphis residents a significant tax advantage over Arizona's 2.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Memphis — common questions

Is Phoenix or Memphis cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Memphis is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 109 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Memphis?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Memphis it's $1,123/month — a difference of $335/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Memphis?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $51,211 in Memphis. Median household income is $25,830/year higher in Phoenix.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Tennessee?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Memphis?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Memphis has a cost index of 68 with rent of $1,123/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Memphis, TN (2026)

Phoenix

Memphis

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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