Let the numbers do the talking.
Gray, TN vs Memphis, TN
Gray, TN vs Memphis, TN: What the data shows
Gray, TN is in Gray, TN while Memphis, TN is in Memphis, TN — both in the same state. On home prices, Gray, TN is the more affordable option at $220,000 median — $43,100 less than Memphis, TN's $263,100. WYLT rates Gray, TN as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Memphis, TN as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Gray, TN has the stronger safety profile of the two. Gray, TN has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Memphis, TN has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Gray, TN has Low flood risk and Memphis, TN has Low flood risk.
Memphis, TN is the more walkable neighborhood. Gray, TN scores N/A/100 versus Memphis, TN's 37/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Memphis, TN has the higher school rating — Gray, TN rates 5.4/10 and Memphis, TN rates 7/10.
| Category | Gray, TN | Memphis, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $220K ✓ Lower price | $263K |
| Median Rent | $950 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $63K | $92K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 37/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 1/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 186 min | 18 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.4/10 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with school-aged childrenThose who prioritize a peaceful, rural lifestyleRemote workers who need a quiet environment | Families with kidsCommuters to MemphisMid‑income home buyers |
Bottom line
For families with school-aged children, Gray may be a better fit due to its peaceful atmosphere and lower cost of living, despite longer commute times to major cities. For self-sufficient individuals and remote workers, Memphis offers better access to amenities and services, despite its car-dependent nature and moderate crime level. Overall, Gray is a better choice for those prioritizing a rural lifestyle and affordability, while Memphis suits commuters and those who value convenience.
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