Is Memphis or Philadelphia more affordable?
Memphis has a median rent of $950/month, while Philadelphia is $1,100/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Memphis, TN vs Philadelphia, PA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Memphis and Philadelphia.
4
Memphis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Philadelphia wins
TN
Memphis
vs
PA
Philadelphia
Overview
633,104
Population
1,603,797
$41,228
Median Income
+19.2%$49,127✓
Cost of Living
$950✓
Median Rent / mo
+15.8%$1,100
$155,000✓
Median Home Price
+35.5%$210,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
3.07%
9.75%
Local Tax Rate
8.00%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
63°F
49°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
214 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
208 days
54"
Annual Rainfall
42"
Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Who should choose
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,603,797.
Read full Philadelphia guide →Memphis vs Philadelphia — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Memphis or Philadelphia?
Tennessee has no state income tax. Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Memphis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Memphis and Philadelphia?
Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F
Which city is better for families — Memphis or Philadelphia?
Memphis. Philadelphia. 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.