Data last updated: August 2026

Houston, TXMemphis, TN

You would need around 13.8% less money in Memphis, TN to maintain the same standard of living you have in Houston, TX.

Overall Cost of Living

13.8%

Memphis, TN is cheaper than Houston, TX

1-Bed Rent (City Center)

City A1,664 USD
City B1,376 USD
Difference-17.3%

Groceries (Monthly)

City A250 USD
City B246 USD
Difference-1.6%

Average Net Salary

City A4,689 USD
City B3,689 USD
Difference-21.3%

Editorial Insight: Planning a move from Houston, TX to Memphis, TN? Based on our verified data model, you are looking at a fantastic geo-arbitrage opportunity. Overall, the cost of living in Memphis, TN is 13.8% cheaper. Housing is typically the biggest financial win—renting a 1-bedroom apartment in Memphis, TN's center costs around 1,376 USD, which is a staggering 17.3% less than in Houston, TX. If you are retaining a remote income, the Remote Wealth team ranks this as a highly strategic move for wealth accumulation.

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Reviewed by the Remote Wealth Editorial Team

Our cost of living data for Houston, TX and Memphis, TN is compiled using our rigorous verification methodology. We combine millions of data points from reliable sources to ensure you get the most accurate financial comparison for your relocation.

Read more about our team →

Salary Comparator

Find out exactly how much you need to earn in Memphis, TN to maintain your current lifestyle in Houston, TX.

USD

You need in Memphis, TN

4,041 USD

Geo-Arbitrage FIRE

Discover how moving to a cheaper city accelerates your Financial Independence and Retire Early (FIRE) timeline.

By moving from Houston, TX to Memphis, TN and investing the 14% cost of living difference, you could reach FIRE 2.1 years earlier.

Budget Simulator

Instantly adapt your Houston, TX budget to local Memphis, TN prices. We automatically adjust housing, groceries, and leisure categories.

Housing1376 USD
Groceries246 USD
Utilities & Internet274 USD

Investment Planner

You save 288 USD every month on rent alone by moving to Memphis, TN.

Investing this rent difference in an S&P 500 index fund could grow to ~48,384 USD in 10 years.