73
Overall Score /100
Wins 1 of 7 categories
76
Overall Score /100
Wins 2 of 7 categories
Memphis wins 2–1
based on 7 categories of official U.S. government data
Memphis wins 1–2 overall (76/100)
💰 Memphis is more affordable
💼 Memphis has lower unemployment
🛡️ Knoxville has fewer disasters
📋 Knoxville vs Memphis — The Verdict
Memphis scores 76.8/100 compared to Knoxville's 73.2/100, winning 2 out of 7 data categories. On affordability, Memphis has a clear edge with home prices 24% lower. For safety-conscious movers, Knoxville has a notably lower disaster history with 8 fewer declarations in 20 years. Memphis may be the better fit for budget-conscious movers.
💡 Key Differences
🏠
Home prices in Memphis are 24% lower — a difference of $44,600 in median home value.
🌬️
Memphis has cleaner air with an AQI 27 points lower — particularly important for people with respiratory conditions.
🛡️
Knoxville has experienced 8 fewer federally declared disasters in the last 20 years, indicating lower overall natural disaster risk.
Median Home Value
$184,200
$139,600
Median Rent /mo
$1,043
$1,050
Median Income
$48,309
$48,090
The affordability gap is significant — Memphis offers home prices 24% lower than Knoxville, translating to $44,600 in savings on a median-priced home. This difference alone could determine which city makes financial sense for your situation.
Unemployment Rate
3.6%
3.6%
Job markets are essentially equivalent in both cities — the difference in unemployment rates is negligible. Focus on which city has more openings in your specific field.
Air Quality (AQI)
33 Good
6 Good
Toxic Facilities (TRI)
0
0
Memphis wins on air quality with an AQI 27 points lower. For allergy sufferers, families with young children, or anyone with respiratory concerns, this difference is medically significant.
Max Internet Speed
N/A Mbps
N/A Mbps
Fiber Available
❌ No
❌ No
Solar Potential (kWh/m²/day)
Internet and utility infrastructure data helps assess remote work viability and monthly overhead costs in each city.
Disasters (20 years)
11
19
Knoxville has a markedly lower disaster history — 8 fewer federal declarations over 20 years. This can translate to lower insurance premiums and less disruption to daily life.
❓ Moving from Knoxville to Memphis: Common Questions
Is Knoxville or Memphis cheaper to live in?
Memphis is more affordable overall. Home prices are $44,600 lower in Memphis. Monthly rent is $1,043 in Knoxville vs $1,050 in Memphis.
Does Knoxville or Memphis have better weather?
Memphis scores higher on climate (50/100 vs 50/100).
Is Knoxville or Memphis better for finding a job?
Memphis currently has a stronger job market. Unemployment is 3.6% in Knoxville vs 3.6% in Memphis. Median household income is $48,309 in Knoxville and $48,090 in Memphis.
Which city is safer — Knoxville or Memphis?
In terms of natural disaster risk, Knoxville is safer. Knoxville has had 11 federal disaster declarations in 20 years vs 19 in Memphis. Knoxville scores 95/100 on safety vs 95/100 for Memphis.
Should I move from Knoxville to Memphis?
Based on our data, Memphis scores 76.8/100 vs Knoxville's 73.2/100 overall. The best choice depends on your priorities — Memphis is more affordable, while Memphis has a better climate.
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📊 Data: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), Bureau of Labor Statistics (OEWS), NOAA Climate Normals,
EPA AirNow & TRI, NREL PVWatts, FEMA Disaster Declarations, FCC Broadband Data.
Last updated: April 4, 2026.