Cincinnati vs Memphis: cost of living compared
Memphis is 11% cheaper than Cincinnati overall. Memphis (TN) has no state income tax; OH tops out around 3.5%.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Memphis generally offers a more affordable cost of living compared to Cincinnati. The most significant difference driving this overall affordability gap is housing, which is noticeably cheaper in Memphis. Beyond housing, other categories like food, transportation, and healthcare also contribute to Memphis's lower overall expenses, making it a more budget-friendly option across the board.
Housing
Housing costs present a substantial difference between the two metros. Both home prices and typical rents for a one-bedroom apartment are considerably lower in Memphis. Cincinnati's housing market is more expensive for both buyers and renters. While both metros feature a mix of housing types, Memphis's lower property values mean a smaller initial investment for homeowners, though property taxes and insurance costs can vary.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses are generally lower in Memphis. Transportation, food, healthcare, and utilities are all more affordable there. A key financial distinction is Tennessee's lack of a state income tax, which contrasts with Ohio's income tax. This difference can significantly impact take-home pay and overall disposable income, making everyday spending more manageable in Memphis.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, movers will notice lifestyle differences. Cincinnati, nestled in a more temperate climate, features a distinct four-season experience with colder winters. Memphis, situated further south, experiences milder winters and hotter, more humid summers, with a greater risk of severe weather. Commute times are roughly similar in both cities, and both offer riverfront amenities and a mix of urban and suburban environments.
Bottom line
For households prioritizing budget, Memphis presents a clear advantage with its noticeably lower overall cost of living. The absence of a state income tax in Tennessee further enhances financial flexibility. While Cincinnati offers a different climate and urban character, the financial savings on housing and everyday essentials in Memphis could lead to a significantly different household budget outcome for those considering a move.
| Measure | Cincinnati, OH | Memphis, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 88 | 78 |
| Housing index | 66 | 54 |
| Transportation index | 92 | 88 |
| Food index | 92 | 85 |
| Healthcare index | 95 | 88 |
| Utilities index | 98 | 92 |
| Misc index | 88 | 78 |
| Median home price | $228,000 | $178,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,050/mo | $900/mo |
| Average commute | 26 min | 25 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Memphis home with the True Cost Calculator.