Is Memphis or Nashville more affordable?
Memphis has a median rent of $950/month, while Nashville is $1,250/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Memphis, TN vs Nashville, TN
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Memphis and Nashville.
3
Memphis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Nashville wins
TN
Memphis
vs
TN
Nashville
Overview
633,104
Population
682,646
$41,228
Median Income
+59.0%$65,565✓
Cost of Living
$950✓
Median Rent / mo
+31.6%$1,250
$155,000✓
Median Home Price
+88.0%$291,400
28%
Rent-to-Income %
23%
Taxes
None
State Income Tax
None
9.75%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
57.52°F
49°F
Avg Low Temp
53.73°F
214 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
54"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Who should choose
Nashville, TN
Nashville is a city in Tennessee with a population of 682,646.
Read full Nashville guide →Memphis vs Nashville — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Memphis or Nashville?
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 Nashville?
Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F. Avg high in Nashville: 57.52°F
Which city is better for families — Memphis or Nashville?
Memphis. Nashville. 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.