salaryMemphis is 8% cheaperBased 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
$1,347
$1,399
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,153
$1,194
💵 Families earn per year
$43,073
$55,797
🔑 Buying a house
$83,900
$169,000
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
100.3
92.2
🏛️ Property tax per year
$1,402
$1,845
⚡ Electric bill per month
$196
$223
👥 People living there
638,530
618,980
Commute to work
24.8 min
21.1 min
College degree
18.1%
28%
Own their home
50.3%
44.9%
Below poverty line
32.7%
23.1%
Unemployment
14%
8.3%
Bottom line
- Pick Detroit for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes.
- Pick Memphis for higher incomes, shorter commutes, a more educated workforce and 2 more.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Detroit | Memphis | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $37,490 | $24,550 | -35% in Memphis |
| Plumber | $86,370 | $58,690 | -32% in Memphis |
| Electrician | $81,990 | $60,890 | -26% in Memphis |
| Carpenter | $65,810 | $50,620 | -23% in Memphis |
| Registered Nurse | $97,280 | $81,500 | -16% in Memphis |
| Licensed Practical Nurse | $69,300 | $59,140 | -15% in Memphis |
| HVAC Technician | $63,170 | $56,780 | -10% in Memphis |
| Physician Assistant | $131,830 | $121,900 | -8% in Memphis |
Frequently asked questions
Is Detroit or Memphis cheaper to live in?
Memphis is about 8% cheaper overall. Rent is $1,399 a month there versus $1,347 in Detroit.
What salary do I need in Memphis to match $60,000 in Detroit?
About $55,143 a year gives the same standard of living in Memphis.
Where do people earn more, Detroit or Memphis?
The typical household earns $43,073 in Detroit and $55,797 in Memphis, 23% more in Memphis.