Quick answer
Overall prices in the Washington, DC metro were 108.9 vs 92.2 in Memphis, TN in 2024 (US = 100), so Washington is 18.1% more expensive than Memphis; housing rents differ by 89% (151.1 vs 79.8). A $75,000 income in Washington buys about what $63,493 buys in Memphis, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Washington | Memphis | Washington vs Memphis |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 108.9 | 92.2 | +18.1% |
| Goods | 104.8 | 96.2 | +9.0% |
| Housing (rents) | 151.1 | 79.8 | +89.4% |
| Utilities | 106.7 | 74.1 | +44.0% |
| Other services | 102.3 | 95.4 | +7.3% |
| All items, 2008 | 114.8 | 94.2 | +21.8% |
| $50,000 in Washington equals in Memphis | $42,329 | ||
| $100,000 in Washington equals in Memphis | $84,658 | ||
| $150,000 in Washington equals in Memphis | $126,987 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.