Memphis vs Orlando: cost of living compared
Orlando is 35% more expensive than Memphis overall. Neither TN nor FL has a state income tax.
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
Comparing Memphis and Orlando reveals a significant difference in overall cost of living, with Memphis being noticeably more affordable. This disparity is primarily driven by housing expenses, which are substantially higher in Orlando. While other categories like transportation, food, and utilities also show Memphis as more budget-friendly, the gap in housing costs creates the largest impact on a household's financial outlook when considering a move between these two cities.
Housing
Housing costs present a stark contrast, with both median home prices and typical rental rates for a one-bedroom dwelling being considerably higher in Orlando. Memphis offers much more accessible homeownership and rental opportunities. Beyond the mortgage, Orlando homeowners may face higher insurance premiums, including potential flood coverage, and common additional fees like those for community associations. Property taxes in Florida can also reset to market value upon sale, impacting new buyers.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses generally favor Memphis. While neither state has an income tax, costs for transportation, groceries, and healthcare are all more modest in Memphis. Utilities, however, show Orlando as somewhat more expensive. This means that routine spending on necessities and getting around will typically require a larger portion of one's budget in Orlando compared to Memphis, affecting overall discretionary income.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond finances, a move between these metros brings distinct lifestyle changes. Orlando offers a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, while Memphis experiences more distinct seasons. Orlando is known for its major attractions and a generally faster pace, often with newer, planned communities. Memphis has a rich cultural heritage and a more established urban character. Orlando also experiences hurricane season, which can bring significant weather events.
Bottom line
For those prioritizing affordability, Memphis offers a considerably lower cost of living across most categories, especially housing. A move to Orlando would likely entail a substantial increase in overall expenses, driven mainly by housing, but also by transportation and utilities. While both cities offer no state income tax, the financial implications of moving from Memphis to Orlando are significant, requiring a larger budget for comparable living standards.
| Measure | Memphis, TN | Orlando, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 78 | 105 |
| Housing index | 54 | 104 |
| Transportation index | 88 | 104 |
| Food index | 85 | 98 |
| Healthcare index | 88 | 98 |
| Utilities index | 92 | 108 |
| Misc index | 78 | 92 |
| Median home price | $178,000 | $358,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $900/mo | $1,650/mo |
| Average commute | 25 min | 29 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Orlando home with the True Cost Calculator.