Is Des Moines or Memphis more affordable?
Des Moines has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Memphis is $950/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Des Moines, IA vs Memphis, TN
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Des Moines and Memphis.
1
Des Moines wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Memphis wins
IA
Des Moines
vs
TN
Memphis
Overview
214,133
Population
633,104
$57,000✓
Median Income
-27.7%$41,228
Cost of Living
$1,000
Median Rent / mo
-5.0%$950✓
$220,000
Median Home Price
-29.5%$155,000✓
21%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
3.90%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.75%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
49°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
214 days✓
36"
Annual Rainfall
54"
Who should choose
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines is a city in Iowa with a population of 214,133.
Read full Des Moines guide →Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Des Moines vs Memphis — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Des Moines or Memphis?
Iowa has a 3.90% state income tax. Tennessee has no state income tax. Memphis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Des Moines and Memphis?
Des Moines gets 204 sunny days/year. Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Avg high in Des Moines: 62°F. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Des Moines or Memphis?
Des Moines. 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.