Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
7% cheaper
Memphis is 7% more affordable than San Antonio. A $75,000 salary in San Antonio is equivalent to $70,000 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 · Texas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Memphis has a housing index of 63 while San Antonio sits at 78 (national average = 100). The median home in Memphis costs $155,000 compared to $250,000 in San Antonio, a difference of $95,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Memphis versus $1,200 in San Antonio.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Memphis scores 93 while San Antonio scores 93.
Healthcare costs in Memphis (92) are lower than San Antonio (95).
Median household income in Memphis is $41,228 compared to $53,420 in San Antonio. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Memphis.
Amazon affiliate links