Memphis vs Nashville: Which City is Right for You? Comparing Real Estate, Cost of Living, Culture, and More

You might be considering settling down in a house in Memphis, TN, or making a move to a new apartment in Nashville, TN, as these two Tennessee cities share a love for music, rich history, and vibrant cultures. Memphis offers a more laid-back lifestyle with affordable housing, while Nashville is known for its booming job market and lively entertainment scene. Whether you’re drawn to the blues on Beale Street or the country music venues on Broadway, choosing the right city to call home is an important decision.

From housing costs and job opportunities to culture and lifestyle, there’s a lot to compare. In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the key differences to help you decide whether Memphis or Nashville is the best fit for your next move.

Housing in Memphis vs Nashville

Memphis and Nashville offer distinct housing markets that reflect their unique lifestyles and opportunities. Let’s explore the key differences in housing costs, space, and living options.

Housing in Memphis

Memphis’s housing market is known for its affordability, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers. From historic homes in Midtown to more modern options in suburban neighborhoods like Germantown, Memphis offers a range of choices.

• Median home cost: The median sale cost for a house in Memphis is approximately $179,900, significantly lower than Nashville’s prices.
• Average rental cost: Apartments in Memphis cost around $1,169 per month, providing budget-friendly options for renters.

Housing in Nashville

Nashville’s booming economy and rapid growth have made its housing market competitive. The city offers everything from luxury condos in Downtown Nashville to charming single-family homes in Nashville neighborhoods like East Nashville and Green Hills.

• Median home cost in Nashville: Approximately $460,000, reflecting the city’s growing demand.
• Average rental cost: Apartments in Nashville are around $1,775 per month, higher than Memphis but consistent with its economic boom.

Cost of living in Memphis vs Nashville

The overall cost of living in Memphis is about 10% lower than in Nashville, making it a more affordable option for those seeking a budget-friendly lifestyle. Key differences are seen in housing, groceries, and lifestyle expenses.

1. Utilities

Utilities in Memphis are approximately 20% less expensive than in Nashville. Memphis benefits from a milder climate and lower infrastructure costs, which help keep energy expenses down. In contrast, Nashville’s rapid growth and higher demand for energy contribute to slightly elevated utility costs.

2. Groceries

Groceries in Memphis are about the same as in Nashville. Memphis’s proximity to agricultural regions helps maintain competitive food prices, while Nashville’s growing population and increased demand for goods have a minimal impact on grocery costs.

3. Transportation

Transportation costs are about 2% higher in Nashville compared to Memphis. Nashville’s traffic congestion and reliance on public transit increase commuting expenses, whereas Memphis’s smaller size and car-friendly layout help keep transportation costs more manageable.

4. Healthcare

Healthcare in Memphis is approximately 9% more affordable than in Nashville. Memphis’s lower facility costs and reduced demand for specialized services contribute to its more budget-friendly healthcare options, while Nashville’s expanding population drives up healthcare expenses.

5. Lifestyle

Lifestyle expenses in Memphis are about 6% lower than in Nashville. Memphis offers more affordable options for dining, entertainment, and cultural activities, while Nashville’s vibrant music and arts scenes come with higher costs.

Memphis vs Nashville in size and population

Memphis and Nashville, two major cities in Tennessee, differ significantly in size and population. Memphis spans approximately 317 square miles with a population of around 633,000, offering a spacious and relaxed urban environment. Nashville, by contrast, covers 475 square miles and boasts a population of over 690,000, creating a slightly denser and faster-paced atmosphere. Memphis’s larger geographical footprint provides room for sprawling neighborhoods and open spaces, while Nashville’s compact yet growing layout reflects its rapid economic and cultural development.

Memphis vs Nashville weather and climate

Memphis’ climate and Nashville’s climate both experience a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Memphis tends to be slightly warmer year-round due to its southern location, with summer temperatures frequently reaching the high 90s. Nashville, while still warm, enjoys slightly cooler summers and falls. Both cities experience occasional severe weather, with Memphis being more prone to thunderstorms and tornadoes, while Nashville’s weather is slightly more stable overall.

Memphis vs Nashville job market

Memphis: Logistics and healthcare hub

Memphis’s economy is centered on logistics, transportation, and healthcare, with major employers like FedEx, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and International Paper driving job growth. The city’s strategic location near the Mississippi River makes it a logistics hub, offering opportunities in distribution and supply chain management. Memphis has a median household income of approximately $51,000, with an average hourly wage of $26.91, providing steady earning potential in its core industries.

Nashville: Music and tech growth

Nashville’s job market is booming, led by the music, healthcare, and tech industries. Major healthcare providers like HCA Healthcare and Vanderbilt University Medical Center are top employers, while the city’s tech scene continues to grow with startups and established companies alike. The median household income in Nashville is around $80,000, with an average hourly wage of $29.59, reflecting its expanding opportunities. Nashville’s strong job market attracts professionals in creative and corporate sectors.

Memphis vs Nashville transportation

Memphis: Car-dependent with some transit options

Memphis’s transportation system relies heavily on personal vehicles, with limited public transit options provided by the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA). While biking is becoming more popular, the city’s infrastructure is still catching up.

• Walk Score: 35
• Bike Score: 41
• Transit Score: 22

Nashville: Expanding transit options

Nashville’s transportation is also car-centric, but recent efforts to expand public transit, such as WeGo Public Transit, have improved connectivity. The city is moderately walkable in central areas like Downtown and The Gulch.

• Walk Score: 29
• Bike Score: 30
• Transit Score: 22

Memphis vs Nashville travel in and out

Both Memphis and Nashville serve as major transportation hubs in Tennessee, offering robust options for regional and national travel.

• Memphis: Memphis International Airport, Amtrak’s City of New Orleans route, Greyhound and Megabus services, and easy access to the Mississippi River for cargo and leisure travel.
• Nashville: Nashville International Airport, Amtrak connecting to nearby cities, Greyhound and Megabus buses, and a growing infrastructure for regional and national travel.

Memphis vs Nashville lifestyle and things to do

A day in the life of a Memphian

Life in Memphis is steeped in history and culture, with a laid-back vibe that revolves around its music and food scenes. Start your day with coffee at a cozy Midtown café before visiting historic sites like the National Civil Rights Museum. Evenings are for blues music on Beale Street or sampling Memphis’s famous barbecue at local joints. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a walk along the Mississippi River at Tom Lee Park or explore Shelby Farms Park for a dose of nature.

Top things to do in Memphis:

• Tour Graceland, Elvis Presley’s iconic home
• Visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music
• Catch live blues on Beale Street
• Explore the Memphis Zoo
• Watch a Memphis Grizzlies (NBA) game at FedExForum

Google Street View of Graceland

Memphis parks and outdoor activities:

• Stroll along Tom Lee Park
• Explore Shelby Farms Park
• Visit Overton Park for picnics and concerts
• Bike along the Big River Crossing
• Paddle on the Mississippi River

Google Street View of Tom Lee Park

Memphis tourist attractions:

• Graceland
• Sun Studio
• National Civil Rights Museum
• Memphis Botanic Garden
• Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid

A day in the life of a Nashvillian

Nashville’s lively music scene and neighborhoods create an exciting daily rhythm. Start with brunch at a trendy East Nashville spot, then explore iconic landmarks like the Country Music Hall of Fame. Evenings might involve live music at the Ryman Auditorium or one of the city’s many honky-tonks. Outdoor enthusiasts can kayak on the Cumberland River or stroll through Centennial Park.

Top things to do in Nashville:

• Visit the Grand Ole Opry
• Explore the Johnny Cash Museum
• Tour the historic Belle Meade Plantation
• Take in live music at the Bluebird Café
• Stroll through the Nashville Farmers’ Market

Google Street View of Belle Meade Plantation

Nashville parks and outdoor activities:

• Walk through Centennial Park
• Explore Percy Warner Park
• Paddle along the Cumberland River
• Visit Radnor Lake State Park
• Relax at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

Google Street View of Percy Warner Park

Nashville tourist attractions:

• Country Music Hall of Fame
• Ryman Auditorium
• Parthenon Replica in Centennial Park
• Cheekwood Estate and Gardens
• Music Row

Memphis vs Nashville food and culture

Memphis: The soul of barbecue and blues

Memphis is renowned for its soul food and barbecue, with staples like dry-rub ribs and pulled pork drawing food lovers from all over. Beale Street serves as the epicenter of the city’s blues culture, offering live music at historic clubs and bars. The city’s cultural identity is also tied to its history, showcased at the National Civil Rights Museum and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. Annual events like the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest and the Memphis Music Festival celebrate the city’s rich culinary and musical heritage.

Nashville: Music city’s diverse food scene

Nashville’s food scene blends Southern comfort with modern innovation, with staples like hot chicken, biscuits, and meat-and-three meals dominating local menus. In addition to its iconic country music scene, Nashville offers a growing indie music and arts culture. The city hosts festivals like the CMA Music Festival and the Nashville Film Festival, attracting visitors year-round. Local landmarks like the Ryman Auditorium and the Johnny Cash Museum are cultural cornerstones that celebrate Nashville’s role in music history.

Memphis vs Nashville sports scene

Memphis: Basketball and minor league action

Memphis’s sports culture is highlighted by the Memphis Grizzlies (NBA), who play home games at FedExForum and attract a loyal fan base. The city is also home to the Memphis Redbirds, a Triple-A baseball team with games at AutoZone Park. College basketball, particularly the Memphis Tigers, plays a significant role in the city’s sports identity.

Nashville: Hockey and football enthusiasm

Nashville’s sports scene thrives with the Tennessee Titans (NFL) and the Nashville Predators (NHL). Nissan Stadium and Bridgestone Arena are major venues for high-energy games. Nashville SC, the city’s MLS team, adds to the growing soccer enthusiasm, while college football fans rally behind Vanderbilt University and nearby programs.

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