Is Memphis or Sacramento more affordable?
Memphis has a median rent of $950/month, while Sacramento is $1,650/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Memphis, TN vs Sacramento, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Memphis and Sacramento.
3
Memphis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Sacramento wins
TN
Memphis
vs
CA
Sacramento
Overview
633,104
Population
524,943
$41,228
Median Income
+47.3%$60,715✓
Cost of Living
$950✓
Median Rent / mo
+73.7%$1,650
$155,000✓
Median Home Price
+222.6%$500,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
33%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
9.75%
Local Tax Rate
8.75%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
73°F
49°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
214 days
Sunny Days / Year
269 days✓
54"
Annual Rainfall
18"
Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Who should choose
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento is a city in California with a population of 524,943.
Read full Sacramento guide →Memphis vs Sacramento — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Memphis or Sacramento?
Tennessee has no state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Memphis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Memphis and Sacramento?
Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Sacramento gets 269 sunny days/year. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F. Avg high in Sacramento: 73°F
Which city is better for families — Memphis or Sacramento?
Memphis. Sacramento. 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.