Is Memphis or San Francisco more affordable?
Memphis has a median rent of $950/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Memphis, TN vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Memphis and San Francisco.
4
Memphis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
TN
Memphis
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
633,104
Population
865,933
$41,228
Median Income
+206.1%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$950✓
Median Rent / mo
+124.2%$2,130
$155,000✓
Median Home Price
+670.6%$1,194,500
28%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
9.75%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
49°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°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
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a city in California with a population of 865,933.
Read full San Francisco guide →Memphis vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Memphis or San Francisco?
Tennessee has no state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Memphis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Memphis and San Francisco?
Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Memphis or San Francisco?
Memphis. San Francisco. 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.