Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
15% cheaper
Memphis is 15% more affordable than Mesa. A $75,000 salary in Mesa is equivalent to $63,636 in Memphis.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Tennessee salaries · Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Memphis has a housing index of 63 while Mesa sits at 98 (national average = 100). The median home in Memphis costs $155,000 compared to $350,000 in Mesa, a difference of $195,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Memphis versus $1,350 in Mesa.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Memphis scores 93 while Mesa scores 99.
Healthcare costs in Memphis (92) are lower than Mesa (95).
Median household income in Memphis is $41,228 compared to $60,234 in Mesa. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Memphis.
Amazon affiliate links