By Ziv Shay | Updated April 2026
Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $41,228
Population: 633,104
Median Income: $53,420
Population: 1,547,253
When comparing Memphis and San Antonio, the overall cost of living differs by 13.2%. San Antonio carries a cost index of 86 compared to Memphis's 76, meaning your dollar stretches 12% further in Memphis.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. Memphis has a housing index of 62 compared to San Antonio's 78. This 16-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in Memphis.
Memphis is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in Memphis, you would need $67,895 in San Antonio to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $113,158.
The median household income in Memphis is $41,228 compared to $53,420 in San Antonio. San Antonio has higher incomes, though the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: Memphis scores 3/10 while San Antonio scores 6/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Both cities score similarly for weather at 6/10.
Job Market: San Antonio has the stronger job market (6/10) compared to Memphis (5/10).
Memphis is the more affordable option overall, but cost is just one factor in deciding where to live. Consider your career opportunities, family needs, and lifestyle preferences alongside the financial comparison. San Antonio may justify its higher costs with unique cultural amenities that many residents find worthwhile.
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