Nashville vs Salt Lake City: cost of living compared
Salt Lake City is about the same as Nashville overall. Nashville (TN) has no state income tax; UT tops out around 4.65%.
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 Nashville and Salt Lake City reveals an overall cost of living that is quite similar for both metros, each sitting above the national average. However, the components driving these costs differ significantly. Salt Lake City's higher housing expenses are somewhat balanced by more affordable transportation. Conversely, Nashville offers slightly more accessible housing for buyers but has higher transportation costs. The differing state income tax structures also play a role in the overall financial picture for residents in each city.
Housing
Housing costs present a notable difference between the two cities. Buying a home in Salt Lake City is generally more expensive than in Nashville. However, for those looking to rent a one-bedroom, Nashville tends to be slightly higher. Both metros feature a mix of housing types, from urban apartments to suburban homes. Property taxes and insurance costs will vary, but the initial purchase price or monthly rent is a primary factor in housing affordability in each location.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses show a mix of similarities and differences. Food, healthcare, and miscellaneous costs are roughly comparable between Nashville and Salt Lake City. Utilities are also quite similar, with Salt Lake City being a touch more affordable. A major distinction for everyday budgeting is state income tax; Salt Lake City has a state income tax, while Nashville does not. Transportation costs are noticeably higher in Nashville compared to Salt Lake City, impacting daily commuting expenses.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move between these cities means experiencing distinct lifestyles. Nashville, known for its warm, humid summers and mild winters, has a generally flatter topography. Salt Lake City, nestled in a mountain valley, experiences four distinct seasons with colder, snowy winters and hot, dry summers. Commute times are shorter in Salt Lake City. Both cities offer a blend of urban amenities and access to outdoor activities, though the specific character and density of each metro vary.
Bottom line
For those considering a move, the overall financial impact of living in Nashville or Salt Lake City is quite similar. While Salt Lake City presents higher home purchase prices, it offers more affordable transportation and slightly lower one-bedroom rents. Nashville, with its lack of state income tax, can offer a different take-home pay scenario but has higher transportation expenses. A household's specific needs regarding housing, commute, and tax considerations will ultimately determine which metro aligns better with their budget.
| Measure | Nashville, TN | Salt Lake City, UT |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 108 | 108 |
| Housing index | 119 | 127 |
| Transportation index | 104 | 89 |
| Food index | 98 | 98 |
| Healthcare index | 98 | 98 |
| Utilities index | 98 | 95 |
| Misc index | 95 | 95 |
| Median home price | $438,000 | $498,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,650/mo | $1,550/mo |
| Average commute | 29 min | 24 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Salt Lake City home with the True Cost Calculator.