Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
21% cheaper
Memphis is 21% more affordable than Springfield. A $75,000 salary in Springfield is equivalent to $58,879 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 · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Memphis has a housing index of 63 while Springfield sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in Memphis costs $155,000 compared to $230,000 in Springfield, a difference of $75,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Memphis versus $1,200 in Springfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Memphis scores 93 while Springfield scores 104.
Healthcare costs in Memphis (92) are lower than Springfield (114).
Median household income in Memphis is $41,228 compared to $41,612 in Springfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Memphis.
Amazon affiliate links