Is Detroit or Memphis more affordable?
Detroit has a median rent of $800/month, while Memphis is $950/month. Detroit is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Detroit, MI vs Memphis, TN
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Detroit and Memphis.
2
Detroit wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Memphis wins
MI
Detroit
vs
TN
Memphis
Overview
672,662
Population
633,104
$33,381
Median Income
+23.5%$41,228✓
Cost of Living
$800✓
Median Rent / mo
+18.8%$950
$85,000✓
Median Home Price
+82.4%$155,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
4.25%
State Income Tax
None✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.75%
Climate & Weather
58°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
40°F
Avg Low Temp
49°F
183 days
Sunny Days / Year
214 days✓
34"
Annual Rainfall
54"
Who should choose
Detroit, MI
Detroit is a city in Michigan with a population of 672,662.
Read full Detroit guide →Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Detroit vs Memphis — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Detroit or Memphis?
Michigan has a 4.25% state income tax. Tennessee has no state income tax. Memphis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Detroit and Memphis?
Detroit gets 183 sunny days/year. Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Avg high in Detroit: 58°F. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Detroit or Memphis?
Detroit. 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.