Is Indianapolis or Memphis more affordable?
Indianapolis has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Memphis is $950/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Indianapolis, IN vs Memphis, TN
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Indianapolis and Memphis.
1
Indianapolis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Memphis wins
IN
Indianapolis
vs
TN
Memphis
Overview
887,642
Population
633,104
$51,225✓
Median Income
-19.5%$41,228
Cost of Living
$1,000
Median Rent / mo
-5.0%$950✓
$225,000
Median Home Price
-31.1%$155,000✓
23%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
3.15%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.75%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
42°F
Avg Low Temp
49°F
186 days
Sunny Days / Year
214 days✓
42"
Annual Rainfall
54"
Who should choose
Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis is a city in Indiana with a population of 887,642.
Read full Indianapolis guide →Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Indianapolis vs Memphis — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Indianapolis or Memphis?
Indiana has a 3.15% state income tax. Tennessee has no state income tax. Memphis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Indianapolis and Memphis?
Indianapolis gets 186 sunny days/year. Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Avg high in Indianapolis: 62°F. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Indianapolis or Memphis?
Indianapolis. 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.