Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
25% cheaper
Memphis is 25% more affordable than Naperville. A $75,000 salary in Naperville is equivalent to $56,250 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 · Illinois salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Memphis has a housing index of 63 while Naperville sits at 130 (national average = 100). The median home in Memphis costs $155,000 compared to $430,000 in Naperville, a difference of $275,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Memphis versus $1,800 in Naperville.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Memphis scores 93 while Naperville scores 104.
Healthcare costs in Memphis (92) are lower than Naperville (101).
Median household income in Memphis is $41,228 compared to $118,254 in Naperville. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Memphis.
Amazon affiliate links