Is Knoxville more expensive than Memphis?

Knoxville is 0.6% more expensive than Memphis overall. Rent is 28.9% higher, groceries 1.2% cheaper, and restaurants 3.6% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Memphis or Knoxville?

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

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇺🇸 Memphis vs 🇺🇸 Knoxville

2026

Knoxville is 0.6% more expensive

Category	🇺🇸 Memphis	🇺🇸 Knoxville	Difference
Cost of Living	65.8	66.2	+0.6%
Rent	29.4	37.9	+28.9%
Groceries	74.6	73.7	-1.2%
Restaurants	70.0	67.5	-3.6%
Purchasing Power	138.7	127.2	-8.3%

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 Memphis

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