Is Memphis or Phoenix more affordable?
Memphis has a median rent of $950/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Memphis, TN vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Memphis and Phoenix.
3
Memphis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Phoenix wins
TN
Memphis
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
633,104
Population
1,608,139
$41,228
Median Income
+50.4%$62,000✓
Cost of Living
$950✓
Median Rent / mo
+73.7%$1,650
$155,000✓
Median Home Price
+171.0%$420,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
2.50%
9.75%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
49°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
214 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
54"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Memphis vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Memphis or Phoenix?
Tennessee has no state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Memphis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Memphis and Phoenix?
Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Memphis or Phoenix?
Memphis. Phoenix. 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.