Moving from Detroit to Memphis (2026)
Memphis has a COL index of 83 vs 87 for Detroit (100 = US average). You'd pay about 5% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$132/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
8783
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200$1,100
per month
State tax
4.1%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,484$4,741
per month
Salary needed in Memphis to match your Detroit lifestyle
Based on the 5% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Detroit | Equivalent in Memphis |
|---|---|
| $40K | $38,161 |
| $50K | $47,701 |
| $60K | $57,241 |
| $75K | $71,552 |
| $80K | $76,322 |
| $100K | $95,402 |
| $120K | $114,483 |
| $150K | $143,103 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Detroit vs Memphis
| Expense | Detroit | Memphis |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,484 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,200 | $1,100 |
| Groceries | $369 | $357 |
| Transport | $65 | $55 |
| Utilities | $175 | $170 |
| Internet | $60 | $55 |
| Left after essentials | $2,615 | $3,004 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Memphis cheaper than Detroit?
Yes. Memphis has a cost of living index of 83 vs 87 for Detroit (100 = US average). That's about 5% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Detroit to Memphis?
On a $75K salary, moving from Detroit to Memphis could save roughly $132/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,584/year.
What salary do I need in Memphis to match my Detroit lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Detroit, you'd need roughly $71,552/year in Memphis. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Memphis to DetroitDetroit vs Memphis — full comparisonDetroit cost of livingMemphis cost of living
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only