Moving from Richmond to Memphis (2026)
Memphis has a COL index of 83 vs 98 for Richmond (100 = US average). You'd pay about 15% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$517/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
9883
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,600$1,100
per month
State tax
5.8%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,378$4,741
per month
Salary needed in Memphis to match your Richmond lifestyle
Based on the 15% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Richmond | Equivalent in Memphis |
|---|---|
| $40K | $33,878 |
| $50K | $42,347 |
| $60K | $50,816 |
| $75K | $63,520 |
| $80K | $67,755 |
| $100K | $84,694 |
| $120K | $101,633 |
| $150K | $127,041 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Richmond vs Memphis
| Expense | Richmond | Memphis |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,378 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,600 | $1,100 |
| Groceries | $369 | $357 |
| Transport | $70 | $55 |
| Utilities | $155 | $170 |
| Internet | $60 | $55 |
| Left after essentials | $2,124 | $3,004 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Memphis cheaper than Richmond?
Yes. Memphis has a cost of living index of 83 vs 98 for Richmond (100 = US average). That's about 15% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Richmond to Memphis?
On a $75K salary, moving from Richmond to Memphis could save roughly $517/month on core expenses. That's ~$6,204/year.
What salary do I need in Memphis to match my Richmond lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Richmond, you'd need roughly $63,520/year in Memphis. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Memphis to RichmondRichmond vs Memphis — full comparisonRichmond 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