Is Memphis or Portland more affordable?
Memphis has a median rent of $950/month, while Portland is $1,406/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Memphis, TN vs Portland, OR
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Memphis and Portland.
4
Memphis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Portland wins
TN
Memphis
vs
OR
Portland
Overview
633,104
Population
647,176
$41,228
Median Income
+90.3%$78,476✓
Cost of Living
$950✓
Median Rent / mo
+48.0%$1,406
$155,000✓
Median Home Price
+198.6%$462,800
28%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
9.90%
9.75%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
50.49°F
49°F
Avg Low Temp
46.76°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
Portland, OR
Portland is a city in Oregon with a population of 647,176.
Read full Portland guide →Memphis vs Portland — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Memphis or Portland?
Tennessee has no state income tax. Oregon has a 9.90% state income tax. Memphis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Memphis and Portland?
Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F. Avg high in Portland: 50.49°F
Which city is better for families — Memphis or Portland?
Memphis. Portland. 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.