Yes, Memphis is a great Southern city to live in. Residents appreciate the city’s rich cultural heritage, affordable housing, and outdoor recreation—though its higher-than-average crime rates, infrastructure challenges, and traffic are a few things residents don’t like about living here. Explore these 16 pros and cons of living in Memphis!
Quick Facts About Memphis
| Population | 650,910 |
| Average Home Price | $412,965 |
| Average Monthly Rent | $1,576 |
| Average Commute Time | 22 minutes |
| Average Days of Sunshine | 218 |
Statistics from AreaVibes, Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), & Best Places
Pros of Living in Memphis
Benefits of living in Memphis include its affordable cost of living, high-quality healthcare, lively arts scene, and more. Discover why you should move to Memphis below!
Pro: Affordable Cost of Living in Memphis
Affordability is one of the top reasons to live in Memphis. Not only is Tennessee among the most affordable states to live in, but Memphis is one of the most budget-friendly cities in the country. In fact, the cost of living in Memphis is 11% lower than the national average, allowing residents to enjoy savings on everyday expenses such as transportation, utilities, healthcare, and more. Some of the biggest savings come from the city’s low-cost housing—sitting 16% lower than the national average—which makes finding affordable Colonial Revival, Craftsman, and American Foursquare homes possible. Plus, Tennessee doesn’t have a state income tax, which helps keep more money in your pockets!
Pro: Top Colleges in Memphis
With a variety of higher education institutions in Memphis, you can find options that suit both your interests and budget. Popular colleges and universities in Memphis include:
- The University of Memphis, offering programs like anthropology, earth sciences, & music therapy
- Rhodes College, a private, four-year college with over 70 academic programs—spanning dance, environmental studies, & more
- Southwest Tennessee Community College for a budget-friendly education in fields like social sciences or health & natural sciences
- Concorde Career College in Memphis, with courses in dental hygiene, diagnostics, & nursing
- LeMoyne-Owen College, the city’s only HBCU
- Moore Tech for hands-on training in plumbing, machining, welding, & more
Pro: Quality, Affordable Healthcare in Memphis
One of the best reasons to move to Memphis is for excellent healthcare! With costs that are 21% lower than the national average and several top facilities across the city, Memphis residents can enjoy convenient, affordable, and high-quality healthcare. In fact, the city is home to some of the best healthcare facilities in Tennessee—including Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis, and the nationally-recognized St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This not only allows Memphis residents to enjoy an improved quality of life, but it also creates abundant jobs for physicians and those seeking work in the healthcare field!
Pro: Convenient Location
Whether you want to take a day trip or plan a weekend getaway, Memphis’ convenient location in the heart of the Mid-South offers plenty of opportunities to explore the region—including major cities in Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi.
- Take a four-hour road trip to Nashville, TN, also known as “Music City,” to see iconic landmarks like the Grand Ole Opry or enjoy the city’s nightlife.
- Are you a history lover? Venture two hours outside of Memphis to wander around Little Rock, AR, a key site of the Civil Rights Movement.
- Or, for a change of scenery, take a 90-minute drive to explore Oxford, MS—a charming college town filled with boutiques, galleries, scenic parks, and more!
Pro: Variety of Outdoor Activities in Memphis
Outdoor recreation enthusiasts will love living in Memphis! Whether you’re seeking a vast green space or opportunities to play sports, get out on the water, or go fishing, Memphis has you covered. Here are some of the city’s best outdoor spots:
- Shelby Farms Park is one of the largest urban parks in the nation—where you can fish, ride horses, play disc golf, and more!
- Tom Lee Park has a playground, basketball court, outdoor gym equipment, and other ways to get active.
- The Mississippi Riverfront is perfect for jogging, cycling, paddling, picnicking, and taking riverboat cruises.
- Memphis Botanic Garden is a popular spot for admiring flowers and trees—and even has a special garden for kids!
- Wolf River Greenway is an expansive paved pathway that connects various green spaces and trails.
- Memphis Zoo—one of the best zoos in the U.S.—is home to over 3,500 animals, as well as an arboretum, zip line, splash park, and more!
Pro: Rich Art & Culture in Memphis
Recognized as both the “Home of the Blues” and the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” Memphis is shaped by its rich cultural and musical heritage. In fact, the city is home to iconic landmarks like Beale Street, the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, Graceland, and Sun Studio—where musical legends like B.B. King and Johnny Cash once recorded songs. Memphis also has a wide selection of galleries, theaters, music stores, and live music venues where you can appreciate the city’s culture. Some local favorites include:
- Orpheum Memphis offers a variety of Broadway, comedy, and dance shows to enjoy.
- Cannon Center for the Performing Arts hosts powerful jazz, ballet, and opera shows.
- B.B. King’s Blues Club has live music performances every day, from classic soul to blues.
- South Main Sounds hosts songwriter nights for local artists.
- Minglewood Hall is a popular Memphis live music venue with concerts, comedy shows, and more.
Pro: Strong Sense of Community
Despite being a large city, Memphis is known for its tight-knit community spirit and Southern hospitality—which is why many residents view it as a great place to have a fresh start! There are an abundance of annual events and festivals that celebrate the city’s unique art and culture—from the Cooper-Young Festival to the Memphis in May International Festival—making it easy for locals to meet new people and make friends. Many residents also enjoy giving back to their community—such as by volunteering with organizations like Memphis City Beautiful!
Pro: Diverse Memphis Food Scene
Memphis’ food scene is hard to beat—from delicious BBQ, soul food, and Southern dishes to foodie events like the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest or Memphis Food & Wine Festival. Here are some of the best restaurants in Memphis to try:
- Sunrise Memphis to start your day with a hearty breakfast & coffee
- Central BBQ for some of the best BBQ in Memphis—from ribs & beef brisket to pulled chicken
- Uncle Lou’s Fried Chicken for classic Southern comfort foods
- Bala’s Bistro to try traditional African dishes
- Sabor Caribe for some of the best Venezuelan & Caribbean food in Memphis
Pro: Great Sports in Memphis
When it comes to sports, Memphis residents are passionate about their teams! Loyal fanbases and thrilling atmospheres make the Memphis sports scene one of a kind. Some local sports teams and events to check out include:
- Memphis Grizzlies (NBA) at FedExForum
- Memphis Redbirds (MiLB)—the Triple-A Affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals—at AutoZone Park
- University of Memphis Athletics (NCAA D-I) for sports like football, men’s basketball, & women’s basketball
- FedEx St. Jude Championship to see top golfers in action
- AutoZone Liberty Bowl, one of the nation’s most historic & patriotic bowl games
Pro: Buzzing Memphis Nightlife
Memphis boasts abundant nightlife options along Beale Street and beyond! From Memphis breweries and sports bars to fun nightclubs, here are some of the most popular spots for nightlife in Bluff City:
- People’s on Beale, a pool hall & sports bar offering karaoke & open mic nights
- Earnestine & Hazel’s, one of the best dive bars in Memphis—known for its jukebox music & beloved Soul Burger
- Paula & Raiford’s Disco for a high-energy nightclub in Memphis with DJ shows
- Bar DKDC for soul music, international street food, & specialty drinks
- Hi Tone Cafe to enjoy live music & comedy from underground performers
- King’s Palace Cafe’s Absinthe Room, a Memphis bar with arcade games & unique cocktails
- Ghost River Brewing Co., Crosstown Brewing Co., or Grind City Brewing for craft beers
Get Everything You Need For An Easier Move to Memphis
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Cons of Living in Memphis
Some disadvantages of living in Memphis include higher-than-average crime rates, infrastructure challenges, and inconvenient driving conditions. Consider these cons before deciding to move to Memphis.
Con: High Crime Rate in Memphis
Large cities typically see higher-than-average crime rates, and Memphis is no exception—with a crime rate that is significantly higher than the national average. That said, the Memphis Shelby Crime Commission is actively working to improve public safety in the area through solutions like the Safe Community Action Plan—which has contributed to a more-than-15% decrease in overall crime rates in recent years. The city has also prioritized public safety support and offers various crime prevention resources for residents for additional peace of mind. Not to mention, there are several safe and affordable neighborhoods in Memphis to settle down in outside the downtown area—in addition to family-friendly attractions across the city, including the Children’s Museum of Memphis, Museums of Science & History, and more!
Con: Limited Job Opportunities in Some Fields
Though Memphis’ job market offers great opportunities in key industries like technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics, some residents report that it can be challenging to secure a position in non-dominant fields. Lengthy job searches or the need to commute to a nearby city for work can result in mental or financial stress for Memphis locals. That said, there are still several major companies headquartered in Memphis—including FedEx, AutoZone, First Horizon Bank, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital—that offer excellent job opportunities across various industries. Plus, in recent years, Memphis has experienced a surge in job growth, which has strengthened its economy and brought in more job prospects for residents!
Con: Inconvenient Driving Conditions
Because Memphis is a fairly car-dependent city, residents sometimes experience traffic jams during rush hours—and the city has also been criticized for having poor drivers and unsafe road conditions. However, it’s possible to avoid these issues altogether thanks to the city’s public transportation options—including the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) buses and trolley. Not to mention, some parts of the city are extremely walkable, including East Midtown!
Con: Infrastructure Challenges
Memphis residents report frustrations with the lack of maintenance on the city’s sidewalks, pothole-ridden roads, and bridges. Not only does outdated infrastructure lead to traffic delays and inconveniences, but it can also result in unsafe driving and walking conditions. To help combat these issues, the city is actively working on infrastructure updates to improve the quality of life of residents—including a $74 million investment into Downtown Memphis’ sidewalks and streets.
Con: Air Quality & Allergy Issues
Memphis faces a few air quality issues, and those with seasonal allergies may struggle here, as well. Specifically, the city faces issues with elevated pollen counts and high ozone pollution. In fact, Memphis is considered one of the 50 worst cities for people with asthma. However, county initiatives like Stop at the Click encourage residents to do their part to improve air quality. Plus, organizations like Memphis Community Against Pollution work to promote awareness and foster a healthier community. If you’re sensitive to poor air quality conditions or have allergy concerns, it’s best to monitor conditions in your area and limit outdoor exposure when needed to keep yourself safe.
Con: Extreme Weather in Memphis
Memphis is no stranger to severe weather and fluctuating temperatures. Summers in Memphis are usually long, hot, and muggy—with average highs in the 90s. The heat and humidity not only make outdoor activities less comfortable, but also attract more mosquitoes. Additionally, the city is prone to flooding, with an average of 54 inches of rain each year. However, the city provides emergency preparedness resources for residents so you can be ready when extreme weather strikes. Plus, there are plenty of ways to stay cool during the summer months—including splash pads and public pools, as well as indoor Memphis attractions such as art galleries and museums!
Should You Move to Memphis?
You should move to Memphis if you want to live in an affordable, vibrant city with live music venues, outdoor recreation, and strong community ties. Before moving to Memphis, be sure to evaluate how your lifestyle, transportation needs, and weather preferences align with the city’s offerings—as Memphis experiences hot, muggy summers and safety concerns. Here are some considerations to help finalize your decision.
Memphis may be the right fit for you if…
- You want to live in a large city with a small-town feel.
- You’re looking for accessible higher education options.
- You’re seeking affordable healthcare or want to work in the medical field.
- You’d enjoy a rich arts and live music scene.
- You crave BBQ, soul food, and Southern cuisine.
You may want to consider moving to another city if…
- You rely heavily on public transportation.
- You dislike hot, humid weather.
- You don’t work in dominant fields like healthcare, manufacturing, or logistics.
- You want to live in one of the safest U.S. cities.
- You have severe allergies or asthma.
Memphis Compared to Nearby Cities
Wondering if Memphis is better than Nashville—or how popular cities like New Orleans and Dallas compare? Use the chart below to figure out which city is right for you.
| Factor | Memphis, TN | Nashville, TN | New Orleans, LA | Dallas, TX |
| Average Monthly Rent | $1,576 | $1,741 | $2,050 | $1,554 |
| Average Home Price | $412,965 | $534,248 | $863,704 | $476,573 |
| Average Commute Time | 22 minutes | 25 minutes | 24 minutes | 27 minutes |
| Walk Score | 35/100 | 29/100 | 58/100 | 46/100 |
| Unemployment Rate | 5.4% | 3.4% | 5.2% | 3.4% |
| Major Industries | Healthcare, transportation, logistics | Entertainment, healthcare, tourism | Tourism, manufacturing, energy, healthcare | Business, education, government, skilled trades |
Statistics from Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Best Places, Walk Score, & AreaVibes
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Memphis
Why is Memphis so cheap to live in?
Memphis’ affordability comes down to its lower-than-average costs for housing, healthcare, utilities, transportation, and more. A livable wage in Memphis for a single adult with no children is just under $45,000!
Is Memphis safe?
While Memphis’ crime rate is significantly higher than the national average, there are still a variety of low-crime areas in the city to settle down in. Safe and affordable neighborhoods in Memphis tend to be further away from the city center, such as Hickory Ridge-South Riverdale, East Memphis, and Cordova.
Does it snow in Memphis?
Yes, it sometimes snows in Memphis, but not very often. On average, the area receives three inches of snow per year—with January being the snowiest month. Memphis’ humid, subtropical climate makes it an ideal location if you want to avoid significant snowfall but still experience the changing seasons.
What is the distance from Memphis to Nashville?
Memphis is 212 miles away from Nashville—or approximately a three-hour drive. Memphis residents love taking weekend trips to Nashville to attend sports games, experience the city’s nightlife, and visit iconic country music landmarks like the Grand Ole Opry.
Is Memphis a good place to live?
Yes, Memphis is a great place to live thanks to its mix of affordability and top-notch amenities. Residents appreciate the city’s rich culture, iconic live music scene, delicious cuisine, warm weather, and tight-knit communities.
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