Let the numbers do the talking.
Johnson City, TN vs Memphis, TN
Johnson City, TN vs Memphis, TN: What the data shows
Johnson City, TN is in Johnson City, TN while Memphis, TN is in Memphis, TN — both in the same state. On home prices, Johnson City, TN is the more affordable option at $179,500 median — $109,400 less than Memphis, TN's $288,900. WYLT rates Johnson City, TN as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Memphis, TN as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Johnson City, TN has the stronger safety profile of the two. Johnson City, TN has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Memphis, TN has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Johnson City, TN has Low flood risk and Memphis, TN has Low flood risk.
Memphis, TN is the more walkable neighborhood. Johnson City, TN scores 14/100 (car-dependent) versus Memphis, TN's 41/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Memphis, TN has the higher school rating — Johnson City, TN rates 6.3/10 and Memphis, TN rates 7/10.
| Category | Johnson City, TN | Memphis, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $180K ✓ Lower price | $289K |
| Median Rent | $861 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $48K | $53K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 14/100 | 41/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 20/100 ✓ Better transit | 10/100 |
| Bike Score | 18/100 | 65/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | N/A | 6 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.3/10 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Budget‑conscious buyersFamilies looking for affordable housingRetirees wanting a quieter setting | Budget‑conscious commutersRemote workers who need a carFamilies willing to accept higher crime risk |
Bottom line
Johnson City is a more affordable option for families and retirees seeking quiet living with decent schools, but it requires a car for daily tasks and lacks amenities. Memphis offers a more urban experience with closer proximity to downtown and bike routes, but its lower home prices come with higher crime concerns and poor walkability. Overall, Johnson City is better for those prioritizing affordability and quiet living, while Memphis suits those who value proximity to downtown and can tolerate higher crime risks.
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