Quick answer
Memphis 1BR rent: $980/mo. Walk Score: 36/100. State tax: None. Pick your lifestyle below for a personalised breakdown.
TN · 2026
Is Memphis Good For You?
Memphis, TN evaluated for 7 different lifestyles — remote workers, families, retirees, young professionals, tech workers, outdoor enthusiasts, and first-time renters. Pick yours for a personalised cost-of-living breakdown.
1BR rent
$980/mo
Walk Score
36/100
State tax
None
Median home
$195K
Choose Your Lifestyle
Is Memphis Good for Remote Workers?
Cost savings, walkability, and time-zone fit for remote roles
Is Memphis Good for Families?
School districts, home prices, and family quality of life
Is Memphis Good for Retirees?
State tax on retirement income, healthcare, and walkability
Is Memphis Good for Young Professionals?
Job market, nightlife, rent-to-salary ratio, and social scene
Is Memphis Good for Tech Workers?
Tech job market depth, salary vs. cost savings over SF/NYC
Is Memphis Good for Outdoor Enthusiasts?
Climate, trail access, and outdoor recreation proximity
Is Memphis Good for First-Time Renters?
What rent actually costs, red flags to avoid, and upfront budget
Memphis at a Glance
Memphis is the most affordable large city in Tennessee — $980/month 1BR, $195K median home, and no state income tax. FedEx's global headquarters anchors a major logistics sector. Beale Street and a deep blues and soul music heritage give it genuine cultural weight. Crime is a real issue and shapes neighborhood selection. For logistics and supply chain professionals, it's a career hub that is dramatically cheap to live in.