Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
48% cheaper
Memphis is 48% more affordable than Jersey City. A $75,000 salary in Jersey City 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: New Jersey salaries · Tennessee salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jersey City has a housing index of 249 while Memphis sits at 63 (national average = 100). The median home in Jersey City costs $540,000 compared to $155,000 in Memphis, a difference of $385,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,600 in Jersey City versus $1,000 in Memphis.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Jersey City scores 105 while Memphis scores 93.
Healthcare costs in Jersey City (106) are higher than Memphis (92).
Median household income in Jersey City is $80,820 compared to $41,228 in Memphis. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Memphis.
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