Is Memphis more expensive than Knoxville?

Memphis is 0.6% cheaper than Knoxville overall. Rent is 22.4% lower, groceries 1.2% more expensive, and restaurants 3.7% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Knoxville or Memphis?

Knoxville has a purchasing power index of 127.2 while Memphis has 138.7 (NYC = 100). Memphis offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇺🇸 Knoxville vs 🇺🇸 Memphis

2026

Memphis is 0.6% cheaper

Category	🇺🇸 Knoxville	🇺🇸 Memphis	Difference
Cost of Living	66.2	65.8	-0.6%
Rent	37.9	29.4	-22.4%
Groceries	73.7	74.6	+1.2%
Restaurants	67.5	70.0	+3.7%
Purchasing Power	127.2	138.7	+9.0%

Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Knoxville

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🇺🇸 Should I Move to Knoxville?

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