Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
48% cheaper
Memphis is 48% more affordable than Boston. A $75,000 salary in Boston is equivalent to $38,889 in Memphis.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Massachusetts salaries · Tennessee salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Boston has a housing index of 242 while Memphis sits at 63 (national average = 100). The median home in Boston costs $620,000 compared to $155,000 in Memphis, a difference of $465,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,800 in Boston versus $1,000 in Memphis.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Boston scores 108 while Memphis scores 93.
Healthcare costs in Boston (118) are higher than Memphis (92).
Median household income in Boston is $76,298 compared to $41,228 in Memphis. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Memphis.
Amazon affiliate links