Is Kansas City or Memphis more affordable?
Kansas City has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Memphis is $950/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Kansas City, MO vs Memphis, TN
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Kansas City and Memphis.
1
Kansas City wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Memphis wins
MO
Kansas City
vs
TN
Memphis
Overview
508,090
Population
633,104
$57,542✓
Median Income
-28.4%$41,228
Cost of Living
$1,100
Median Rent / mo
-13.6%$950✓
$230,000
Median Home Price
-32.6%$155,000✓
23%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
4.70%
State Income Tax
None✓
8.60%
Local Tax Rate
9.75%
Climate & Weather
65°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
44°F
Avg Low Temp
49°F
214 days
Sunny Days / Year
214 days
39"
Annual Rainfall
54"
Who should choose
Kansas City, MO
Kansas City is a city in Missouri with a population of 508,090.
Read full Kansas City guide →Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Kansas City vs Memphis — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Kansas City or Memphis?
Missouri has a 4.70% state income tax. Tennessee has no state income tax. Memphis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Kansas City and Memphis?
Kansas City gets 214 sunny days/year. Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Avg high in Kansas City: 65°F. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Kansas City or Memphis?
Kansas City. 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.