Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
29% cheaper
Memphis is 29% more affordable than Burlington. A $75,000 salary in Burlington is equivalent to $53,390 in Memphis.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Vermont salaries · Tennessee salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Burlington has a housing index of 139 while Memphis sits at 63 (national average = 100). The median home in Burlington costs $380,000 compared to $155,000 in Memphis, a difference of $225,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,800 in Burlington versus $1,000 in Memphis.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Burlington scores 108 while Memphis scores 93.
Healthcare costs in Burlington (116) are higher than Memphis (92).
Median household income in Burlington is $51,098 compared to $41,228 in Memphis. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Memphis.
Amazon affiliate links