Is Columbus or Memphis more affordable?
Columbus has a median rent of $1,050/month, while Memphis is $950/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Columbus, OH vs Memphis, TN
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Columbus and Memphis.
1
Columbus wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Memphis wins
OH
Columbus
vs
TN
Memphis
Overview
905,748
Population
633,104
$53,373✓
Median Income
-22.8%$41,228
Cost of Living
$1,050
Median Rent / mo
-9.5%$950✓
$240,000
Median Home Price
-35.4%$155,000✓
24%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
3.99%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.50%
Local Tax Rate
9.75%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
42°F
Avg Low Temp
49°F
178 days
Sunny Days / Year
214 days✓
39"
Annual Rainfall
54"
Who should choose
Columbus, OH
Columbus is a city in Ohio with a population of 905,748.
Read full Columbus guide →Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Columbus vs Memphis — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Columbus or Memphis?
Ohio has a 3.99% state income tax. Tennessee has no state income tax. Memphis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Columbus and Memphis?
Columbus gets 178 sunny days/year. Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Avg high in Columbus: 62°F. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Columbus or Memphis?
Columbus. Memphis. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.