salaryAbout the sameBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Memphis to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,266
$1,399
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,254
$1,194
💵 Families earn per year
$71,108
$55,797
🔑 Buying a house
$194,700
$169,000
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
91.7
92.2
🏛️ Property tax per year
$3,496
$1,845
⚡ Electric bill per month
$141
$223
👥 People living there
212,421
618,980
Commute to work
19.5 min
21.1 min
College degree
29.7%
28%
Own their home
60.5%
44.9%
Below poverty line
15%
23.1%
Unemployment
5.6%
8.3%
Bottom line
- Pick Des Moines for lower rent, higher incomes, shorter commutes and 3 more.
- Pick Memphis for cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Des Moines | Memphis | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $75,040 | $58,690 | -22% in Memphis |
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $20,410 | $24,550 | +20% in Memphis |
| Carpenter | $61,360 | $50,620 | -18% in Memphis |
| Medical Assistant | $46,920 | $39,260 | -16% in Memphis |
| Dental Hygienist | $93,660 | $78,580 | -16% in Memphis |
| Warehouse Worker | $46,370 | $39,510 | -15% in Memphis |
| Nursing Assistant | $43,940 | $38,010 | -13% in Memphis |
| Firefighter | $56,910 | $62,910 | +11% in Memphis |
Frequently asked questions
Is Des Moines or Memphis cheaper to live in?
Des Moines and Memphis cost about the same once rent and everyday costs are combined.
What salary do I need in Memphis to match $60,000 in Des Moines?
About $60,313 a year gives the same standard of living in Memphis.
Where do people earn more, Des Moines or Memphis?
The typical household earns $71,108 in Des Moines and $55,797 in Memphis, 27% more in Des Moines.