Memphis vs Pittsburgh: cost of living compared
Pittsburgh is 13% more expensive than Memphis overall. Memphis (TN) has no state income tax; PA tops out around 3.07%.
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 Pittsburgh reveals a noticeable difference in overall cost of living, with Memphis generally being the more affordable option. This disparity is largely driven by housing expenses, which are significantly lower in the Tennessee city. While other categories like food, transportation, and healthcare also show Memphis as cheaper, the substantial savings on housing are the primary factor contributing to its lower overall cost.
Housing
Housing costs present a significant contrast between the two metros. Both median home prices and typical rental rates for a one-bedroom are considerably lower in Memphis than in Pittsburgh. Memphis often features more traditional Southern-style homes, while Pittsburgh's housing stock includes many older, multi-story brick residences. Beyond the mortgage or rent, property taxes and insurance costs can also vary, impacting the total cost of homeownership.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses for residents will differ, particularly due to state income tax. Tennessee has no state income tax, unlike Pennsylvania, which levies a percentage on income. For other categories, Memphis tends to be more affordable across the board. Transportation, food, and healthcare costs are all lower in Memphis, as are utility expenses, making daily spending notably less impactful on a budget there.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, lifestyle differences are apparent. Memphis offers a warmer, humid Southern climate with mild winters, while Pittsburgh experiences four distinct seasons, including colder, snowy winters. Getting around in Memphis often relies on personal vehicles, though its average commute is slightly shorter. Pittsburgh's hilly terrain and river systems influence its transportation, and it has a more established public transit system. The pace of life can feel different, with Memphis often perceived as having a more relaxed Southern atmosphere.
Bottom line
For households weighing a move between Memphis and Pittsburgh, the financial implications are clear: Memphis generally offers a more budget-friendly environment. The absence of state income tax combined with significantly lower housing costs and reduced expenses across most other categories means a household budget will likely stretch further in Memphis. While Pittsburgh offers its own unique character, the cost of living differential is a major consideration for anyone prioritizing financial savings.
| Measure | Memphis, TN | Pittsburgh, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 78 | 88 |
| Housing index | 54 | 64 |
| Transportation index | 88 | 98 |
| Food index | 85 | 95 |
| Healthcare index | 88 | 98 |
| Utilities index | 92 | 102 |
| Misc index | 78 | 88 |
| Median home price | $178,000 | $218,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $900/mo | $1,050/mo |
| Average commute | 25 min | 28 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Pittsburgh home with the True Cost Calculator.