Is Memphis or San Diego more affordable?
Memphis has a median rent of $950/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Memphis, TN vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Memphis and San Diego.
3
Memphis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Diego wins
TN
Memphis
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
633,104
Population
1,386,932
$41,228
Median Income
+93.3%$79,685✓
Cost of Living
$950✓
Median Rent / mo
+121.1%$2,100
$155,000✓
Median Home Price
+403.2%$780,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
9.75%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
49°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
214 days
Sunny Days / Year
266 days✓
54"
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Who should choose
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →Memphis vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Memphis or San Diego?
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 San Diego?
Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Memphis or San Diego?
Memphis. San Diego. 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.