Moving from Birmingham to Memphis (2026)

Memphis has a COL index of 83 vs 84 for Birmingham (100 = US average). You'd pay about 1% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$413/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
84 โ†’ 83
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200 โ†’ $1,100
per month
State tax
5% โ†’ None
income tax
COL difference
84 โ†’ 83
1% cheaper

Salary needed in Memphis to match your Birmingham lifestyle

Based on the 1% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in BirminghamEquivalent in Memphis
$40K$39,524
$50K$49,405
$60K$59,286
$75K$74,107
$80K$79,048
$100K$98,810
$120K$118,571
$150K$148,214

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Save ~$93/moon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Birmingham vs Memphis

ExpenseBirminghamMemphis
Monthly take-home$4,428$4,741
1BR rent$1,200$1,100
Groceries$357$357
Transport$40$55
Utilities$175$170
Internet$58$55
Left after essentials$2,598$3,004

Frequently asked questions

Is Memphis cheaper than Birmingham?

Yes. Memphis has a cost of living index of 83 vs 84 for Birmingham (100 = US average). That's about 1% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Birmingham to Memphis?

On a $75K salary, moving from Birmingham to Memphis saves roughly $413/month on core expenses. That's ~$4,956/year.

What salary do I need in Memphis to match my Birmingham lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Birmingham, you'd need roughly $74,107/year in Memphis. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only