Moving from McAllen to Memphis (2026)

Memphis has a COL index of 83 vs 78 for McAllen (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 6% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$150 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
78 โ†’ 83
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$950 โ†’ $1,100
per month
State tax
None โ†’ None
income tax
COL difference
78 โ†’ 83
6% more expensive

Salary needed in Memphis to match your McAllen lifestyle

Based on the 6% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in McAllenEquivalent in Memphis
$40K$42,564
$50K$53,205
$60K$63,846
$75K$79,808
$80K$85,128
$100K$106,410
$120K$127,692
$150K$159,615

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$189/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

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

ExpenseMcAllenMemphis
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,741
1BR rent$950$1,100
Groceries$338$357
Transport$35$55
Utilities$165$170
Internet$60$55
Left after essentials$3,193$3,004

Frequently asked questions

Is Memphis cheaper than McAllen?

No. Memphis has a cost of living index of 83 vs 78 for McAllen (100 = US average). That's about 6% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from McAllen to Memphis?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Memphis run about $150/month more than McAllen. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in McAllen, you'd need roughly $79,808/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