Is Memphis or New Orleans more affordable?
Memphis has a median rent of $950/month, while New Orleans is $1,150/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Memphis, TN vs New Orleans, LA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Memphis and New Orleans.
3
Memphis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
New Orleans wins
TN
Memphis
vs
LA
New Orleans
Overview
633,104
Population
383,997
$41,228
Median Income
+4.3%$42,996✓
Cost of Living
$950✓
Median Rent / mo
+21.1%$1,150
$155,000✓
Median Home Price
+38.7%$215,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.25%
9.75%
Local Tax Rate
9.45%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
49°F
Avg Low Temp
59°F
214 days
Sunny Days / Year
218 days✓
54"
Annual Rainfall
64"
Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Who should choose
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans is a city in Louisiana with a population of 383,997.
Read full New Orleans guide →Memphis vs New Orleans — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Memphis or New Orleans?
Tennessee has no state income tax. Louisiana has a 4.25% state income tax. Memphis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Memphis and New Orleans?
Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. New Orleans gets 218 sunny days/year. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F. Avg high in New Orleans: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Memphis or New Orleans?
Memphis. New Orleans. 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.