Moving from Phoenix to Memphis (2026)
Memphis has a COL index of 83 vs 100 for Phoenix (100 = US average). You'd pay about 17% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$466/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10083
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,500$1,100
per month
State tax
2.5%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,584$4,741
per month
Salary needed in Memphis to match your Phoenix lifestyle
Based on the 17% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Phoenix | Equivalent in Memphis |
|---|---|
| $40K | $33,200 |
| $50K | $41,500 |
| $60K | $49,800 |
| $75K | $62,250 |
| $80K | $66,400 |
| $100K | $83,000 |
| $120K | $99,600 |
| $150K | $124,500 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Phoenix vs Memphis
| Expense | Phoenix | Memphis |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,584 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,500 | $1,100 |
| Groceries | $369 | $357 |
| Transport | $64 | $55 |
| Utilities | $210 | $170 |
| Internet | $60 | $55 |
| Left after essentials | $2,381 | $3,004 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Memphis cheaper than Phoenix?
Yes. Memphis has a cost of living index of 83 vs 100 for Phoenix (100 = US average). That's about 17% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Phoenix to Memphis?
On a $75K salary, moving from Phoenix to Memphis could save roughly $466/month on core expenses. That's ~$5,592/year.
What salary do I need in Memphis to match my Phoenix lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Phoenix, you'd need roughly $62,250/year in Memphis. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Memphis to PhoenixPhoenix vs Memphis — full comparisonPhoenix 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