Is Memphis or San Jose more affordable?
Memphis has a median rent of $950/month, while San Jose is $2,500/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Memphis, TN vs San Jose, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Memphis and San Jose.
3
Memphis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Jose wins
TN
Memphis
vs
CA
San Jose
Overview
633,104
Population
1,013,240
$41,228
Median Income
+184.9%$117,474✓
Cost of Living
$950✓
Median Rent / mo
+163.2%$2,500
$155,000✓
Median Home Price
+609.7%$1,100,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
9.75%
Local Tax Rate
9.38%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
49°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
214 days
Sunny Days / Year
257 days✓
54"
Annual Rainfall
15"
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 Jose, CA
San Jose is a city in California with a population of 1,013,240.
Read full San Jose guide →Memphis vs San Jose — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Memphis or San Jose?
Tennessee has no state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Memphis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Memphis and San Jose?
Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Memphis or San Jose?
Memphis. San Jose. 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.