Is $50K a Good Salary in Memphis, TN?
Full budget breakdown for Memphis on $50K/year — take-home after taxes, rent burden, what you can afford, and how it compares to the city median.
Monthly budget in Memphis on $50K
US average equivalent
$60,000
Your $50K in Memphis (COL: 83) buys the same as $60,000/yr in a city with average US cost of living.
vs Memphis median
+19%
The median household income in Memphis is $42,000/yr. You're earning 19% above that.
Cities where $50K goes further
These cities have a lower rent burden at $50K than Memphis.
Other salary levels in Memphis
Frequently asked questions
Is $50K a good salary in Memphis?
$50K/year in Memphis gives you approximately $3,160/month in take-home pay after federal and state taxes. With a median 1BR rent of $1,100/month, your rent burden is 35% of take-home — which is considered manageable. Memphis is one of the more affordable cities for this salary, ranking #21 out of 179 cities.
How much is $50K after taxes in Memphis?
On $50K/year in Memphis (TN), you take home approximately $3,160/month after federal income tax, FICA (no state income tax in ${city.state_code}), and FICA. That is roughly $37,920/year net.
What is the cost of living in Memphis on $50K?
Monthly estimated costs in Memphis: rent $1,100, groceries ~$357, transportation ~$55, utilities ~$170, internet ~$55. Total estimated expenses: ~$1,737/month, leaving ~$1,423/month after essentials on a $50K salary.
Tax estimates use 2026 brackets · Rent data: Zillow Observed Rent Index · Budget figures are estimates for general guidance only