Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
21% cheaper
Murfreesboro is 21% more affordable than Tacoma. A $75,000 salary in Tacoma is equivalent to $59,615 in Murfreesboro.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Washington salaries · Tennessee salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Tacoma has a housing index of 140 while Murfreesboro sits at 85 (national average = 100). The median home in Tacoma costs $400,000 compared to $325,000 in Murfreesboro, a difference of $75,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,600 in Tacoma versus $1,350 in Murfreesboro.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Tacoma scores 105 while Murfreesboro scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Tacoma (106) are higher than Murfreesboro (96). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Tacoma is $58,974 compared to $55,200 in Murfreesboro. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Murfreesboro.
Amazon affiliate links