Is Memphis or Chattanooga more affordable?
Memphis has a median rent of $950/month, while Chattanooga is $1,100/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Memphis, TN vs Chattanooga, TN
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Memphis and Chattanooga.
2
Memphis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Chattanooga wins
TN
Memphis
vs
TN
Chattanooga
Overview
633,104
Population
181,099
$41,228
Median Income
+26.1%$52,000✓
Cost of Living
$950✓
Median Rent / mo
+15.8%$1,100
$155,000✓
Median Home Price
+80.6%$280,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
25%
Taxes
None
State Income Tax
None
9.75%
Local Tax Rate
9.25%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
68°F
49°F
Avg Low Temp
48°F
214 days
Sunny Days / Year
215 days✓
54"
Annual Rainfall
54"
Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Who should choose
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga is a city in Tennessee with a population of 181,099.
Read full Chattanooga guide →Memphis vs Chattanooga — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Memphis or Chattanooga?
Tennessee 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 Memphis and Chattanooga?
Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Chattanooga gets 215 sunny days/year. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F. Avg high in Chattanooga: 68°F
Which city is better for families — Memphis or Chattanooga?
Memphis. Chattanooga. 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.