Is Houston or Memphis more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Memphis is $950/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs Memphis, TN
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and Memphis.
1
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Memphis wins
TX
Houston
vs
TN
Memphis
Overview
2,304,580
Population
633,104
$52,338✓
Median Income
-21.2%$41,228
Cost of Living
$1,250
Median Rent / mo
-24.0%$950✓
$265,000
Median Home Price
-41.5%$155,000✓
29%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
None
State Income Tax
None
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
9.75%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
49°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
214 days✓
50"
Annual Rainfall
54"
Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Houston vs Memphis — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or Memphis?
Texas has no state income tax. Tennessee has no state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Houston and Memphis?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or Memphis?
Houston. 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.