Is Memphis or Seattle more affordable?
Memphis has a median rent of $950/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Memphis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Memphis, TN vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Memphis and Seattle.
3
Memphis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Seattle wins
TN
Memphis
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
633,104
Population
726,054
$41,228
Median Income
+155.6%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$950✓
Median Rent / mo
+89.6%$1,801
$155,000✓
Median Home Price
+395.2%$767,500
28%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
None
State Income Tax
None
9.75%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
49°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°F
214 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
54"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Memphis, TN
Memphis is a city in Tennessee with a population of 633,104.
Read full Memphis guide →Who should choose
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Memphis vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Memphis or Seattle?
Tennessee has no state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Memphis and Seattle?
Memphis gets 214 sunny days/year. Avg high in Memphis: 70°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Memphis or Seattle?
Memphis. Seattle. 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.