Is Memphis or Raleigh more affordable?
Memphis has a median rent of $950/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Memphis, TN vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Memphis and Raleigh.
4
Memphis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Raleigh wins
TN
Memphis
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
633,104
Population
467,665
$41,228
Median Income
+76.0%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$950✓
Median Rent / mo
+52.6%$1,450
$155,000✓
Median Home Price
+158.1%$400,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.75%
9.75%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
49°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
214 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
213 days
54"
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Memphis vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Memphis or Raleigh?
Tennessee has no state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Memphis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Memphis and Raleigh?
Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Memphis or Raleigh?
Memphis. Raleigh. 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.