These two cities in Tennessee share a love of music, rich history, and vibrant culture, so settle into a home in Memphis, TN or move to a new apartment in Nashville, TN You may be considering that. Memphis offers affordable housing and a more laid-back lifestyle, while Nashville is known for its booming job market and lively entertainment scene. Whether you’re drawn to the blues of Beale Street or the country music venues of Broadway, choosing the right city to call home is an important decision.
There’s a lot to compare, from housing costs and job opportunities to culture and lifestyle. This Redfin article explains the key differences to help you decide whether Memphis or Nashville is best for your next move.
Memphis vs. Nashville Housing
Memphis and Nashville offer unique housing markets that reflect their respective lifestyles and opportunities. Let’s take a look at the key differences in housing costs, space, and living options.
memphis homes
Memphis’ housing market is known for its affordability, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers. From historic homes in Midtown to more modern homes in suburbs like Germantown, Memphis offers a wide range of options.
nashville housing
Nashville’s booming economy and rapid growth have made the housing market more competitive. The city offers everything from luxury condos in downtown Nashville to charming single-family homes in Nashville neighborhoods like East Nashville and Green Hills.
Cost of Living in Memphis and Nashville
The overall cost of living in Memphis is about 10% lower than in Nashville, making it a more affordable option for those looking for a budget-friendly lifestyle. The main differences are found in housing, food, and cost of living.
1. Utility
Utilities in Memphis are about 20% cheaper than in Nashville. Memphis benefits from a warmer climate and lower infrastructure costs, which help keep energy spending in check. In contrast, Nashville’s rapid growth and increased energy demands have caused utility costs to rise slightly.
2. Groceries
Grocery stores in Memphis are about the same as in Nashville. Memphis’ proximity to agricultural areas allows it to maintain competitive food prices, while Nashville’s growing population and increased demand for goods have minimal impact on grocery costs.
3. Transportation
Transportation costs are approximately 2% more expensive in Nashville than in Memphis. While Nashville’s traffic congestion and reliance on public transportation increase commuting costs, Memphis’ smaller size and car-friendly layout make transportation costs more manageable.
4. Healthcare
Healthcare costs in Memphis are approximately 9% more affordable than in Nashville. Memphis offers more budget-friendly health care options due to lower facility costs and reduced demand for specialty services, while Nashville’s population growth has increased health care costs.
5. Lifestyle
The cost of living in Memphis is approximately 6% lower than in Nashville. While Memphis offers more affordable dining, entertainment, and cultural activities, Nashville’s vibrant music and arts scene comes at a high price.
Size and population of Memphis and Nashville
Tennessee’s two major cities, Memphis and Nashville, differ greatly in size and population. Memphis covers approximately 317 square miles and has a population of approximately 633,000 people, offering a spacious and relaxing urban environment. In contrast, Nashville covers 475 square miles and has a population of over 690,000 people, creating a slightly denser, faster-paced atmosphere. Memphis’ large geographic footprint provides room for neighborhoods and open spaces, while Nashville’s compact but growing layout reflects its rapid economic and cultural development.
Memphis vs. Nashville weather and climate
Both Memphis’ climate and Nashville’s climate are humid subtropical, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Because of Memphis’ southern location, it tends to be a little warmer year-round, with summer temperatures often reaching the low 90s. Although it’s still warm in Nashville, it gets a little cooler in the summer and fall. Both cities experience severe weather at times, with Memphis more prone to thunderstorms and tornadoes, while Nashville’s weather is generally a little more stable.
Memphis vs. Nashville job market
Memphis: Logistics and Medical Center
Memphis’ economy is centered around logistics, transportation, and health care, with major employers such as FedEx, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and International Paper driving job growth. The city’s strategic location near the Mississippi River makes it a logistics hub, providing opportunities for distribution and supply chain management. Memphis has a median household income of approximately $51,000 and an average hourly wage of $26.91, with the potential for stable income in core industries.
Nashville: The Growth of Music and Technology
Nashville’s job market is booming, especially in the music, healthcare, and technology industries. While major healthcare providers like HCA Healthcare and Vanderbilt University Medical Center are top employers, the city’s technology industry continues to grow with both startups and established companies. Nashville’s median household income is approximately $80,000 and the average hourly wage is $29.59, reflecting growing opportunities. Nashville’s strong job market attracts professionals from the creative and corporate sectors.
Memphis vs. Nashville Transportation
Memphis: A car is required, but there are several transportation options
Memphis’ transportation system relies heavily on private automobiles, and the Memphis Area Transportation Authority (MATA) provides limited public transportation options. Cycling is growing in popularity, but urban infrastructure has yet to catch up.
Nashville: Expanding transportation options
Nashville’s transportation system is also car-centric, but recent efforts to expand public transportation, such as WeGo Public Transit, have improved connectivity. Centers such as downtown and the Gulch are reasonably walkable.
Memphis vs. Nashville Round Trip
Both Memphis and Nashville serve as major transportation hubs for Tennessee, offering strong options for regional and domestic travel.
Memphis: Memphis International Airport, Amtrak’s New Orleans City route, Greyhound and Megabus service, and convenient access to the Mississippi River for cargo and leisure travel. Nashville: Nashville International Airport, Amtrak, Greyhound and Megabus buses connecting to nearby cities, and a growing infrastructure for regional and domestic travel.
Memphis vs. Nashville lifestyle and things to do
A day in the life of a Memphian
Life in Memphis is steeped in history and culture, with a relaxed atmosphere centered around a music and food scene. Start your day with a cup of coffee at a cozy midtown cafe before visiting historic sites like the National Civil Rights Museum. At night, listen to blues music on Beale Street or sample Memphis’ famous barbecue at local joints. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a walk along the Mississippi River at Tom Lee Park or explore Shelby Farms Park to enjoy nature.
Popular places to visit in Memphis:
Graceland Google Street View
Memphis parks and outdoor activities:
Google Street View of Tom Lee Park
Memphis Attractions: Graceland Sun Studio National Civil Rights Museum Memphis Botanical Garden Pyramid Bass Pro Shop
A day in the life of a Nashville person
Nashville’s vibrant music scene and neighborhoods create an exciting daily rhythm. Start with brunch at a trendy spot in East Nashville and explore iconic landmarks like the Country Music Hall of Fame. In the evening, you might enjoy live music at the Ryman Auditorium or one of the city’s many honky-tonks. Outdoor enthusiasts can kayak on the Cumberland River or stroll through Centennial Park.
Popular attractions in Nashville:
Google Street View of Belle Meade Plantation
Parks and outdoor activities in Nashville:
Google Street View of Percy Warner Park
Nashville Attractions: Country Music Hall of Fame Ryman Auditorium Cheekwood Estate and Gardens in Centennial Park Parthenon Replica on Music Row
Memphis vs. Nashville Food and Culture
Memphis: The Soul of Barbecue and Blues
Memphis is known for its soul food and barbecue, and classics like dry-rubbed ribs and pulled pork draw food lovers from all over the world. Beale Street serves as the center of the city’s blues culture, with live music at historic clubs and bars. The city’s cultural identity is tied to its history, which is exhibited at the National Civil Rights Museum and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. Annual events such as the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest and the Memphis Music Festival celebrate the city’s rich culinary and musical traditions.
Nashville: Music City’s diverse food scene
Nashville’s food scene blends Southern comfort with modern innovation, with classics like hot chicken, biscuits, and meat trills dominating local menus. In addition to an iconic country music scene, Nashville also offers a growing indie music and arts culture. The city attracts tourists year-round with festivals like the CMA Music Festival and the Nashville Film Festival. Local landmarks like the Ryman Auditorium and the Johnny Cash Museum are cultural cornerstones that celebrate Nashville’s role in music history.
Memphis vs Nashville sports scene
Memphis: Basketball and Minor League Action
Memphis’ sports culture is highlighted by the Memphis Grizzlies (NBA). The Memphis Grizzlies (NBA) play their home games at FedEx Forum and attract a loyal fan base. The city is also home to the Memphis Redbirds, a Triple-A baseball team that plays at AutoZone Park. College basketball, especially the Memphis Tigers, plays an important role in the city’s athletic identity.
Nashville: Hockey and Football Madness
Nashville has a thriving sports scene with the Tennessee Titans (NFL) and Nashville Predators (NHL). Nissan Stadium and Bridgestone Arena are the main venues for exciting matches. The city’s MLS team, Nashville SC, is adding to the soccer fever as college football fans rally behind Vanderbilt University and nearby programs.
