Is Chattanooga or Memphis more affordable?
Chattanooga has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Memphis is $950/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Chattanooga, TN vs Memphis, TN
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Chattanooga and Memphis.
2
Chattanooga wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Memphis wins
TN
Chattanooga
vs
TN
Memphis
Overview
181,099
Population
633,104
$52,000✓
Median Income
-20.7%$41,228
Cost of Living
$1,100
Median Rent / mo
-13.6%$950✓
$280,000
Median Home Price
-44.6%$155,000✓
25%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
None
State Income Tax
None
9.25%
Local Tax Rate
9.75%
Climate & Weather
68°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
48°F
Avg Low Temp
49°F
215 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
214 days
54"
Annual Rainfall
54"
Who should choose
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga is a city in Tennessee with a population of 181,099.
Read full Chattanooga guide →Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Chattanooga vs Memphis — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Chattanooga or Memphis?
Tennessee has no state income tax. Tennessee has no state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Chattanooga and Memphis?
Chattanooga gets 215 sunny days/year. Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Avg high in Chattanooga: 68°F. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Chattanooga or Memphis?
Chattanooga. Memphis. 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.