Memphis vs Portland: cost of living compared
Portland is 64% more expensive than Memphis overall. Memphis (TN) has no state income tax; OR tops out around 8.75%.
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
Portland's overall cost of living is substantially higher than Memphis, making it a much more expensive place to reside. This significant difference is primarily driven by housing expenses, which are dramatically higher in Portland. While other categories also show Portland as more costly, housing creates the widest gap in affordability between the two metros, impacting both renters and homeowners.
Housing
Housing costs present a stark contrast, with Portland being considerably more expensive for both home purchases and rental properties. Memphis offers much more affordable housing options, whether buying a house or renting an apartment. While specific property taxes and insurance vary, the initial investment and ongoing mortgage or rent payments are substantially lower in Memphis.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses also differ, with Portland generally having higher costs for food, healthcare, and transportation. Utilities are somewhat similar, but Memphis typically sees lower prices. A key financial difference is Oregon's state income tax, which is a significant factor absent in Tennessee, impacting take-home pay and overall daily spending power in Portland.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, the metros offer distinct lifestyles. Portland, known for its mild, wet climate and focus on outdoor activities, has a more developed public transit system and a denser urban feel. Memphis, with its hot, humid summers and milder winters, is generally more car-dependent and has a different pace, reflecting its Southern character and river city heritage.
Bottom line
Moving from Memphis to Portland would entail a substantial increase in household expenses, primarily due to significantly higher housing costs and the presence of a state income tax. Conversely, a move to Memphis would offer considerable savings across most spending categories, allowing for a much more affordable lifestyle, especially regarding housing and everyday necessities.
| Measure | Memphis, TN | Portland, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 78 | 128 |
| Housing index | 54 | 132 |
| Transportation index | 88 | 104 |
| Food index | 85 | 108 |
| Healthcare index | 88 | 112 |
| Utilities index | 92 | 98 |
| Misc index | 78 | 108 |
| Median home price | $178,000 | $498,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $900/mo | $1,750/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 Portland home with the True Cost Calculator.