Let the numbers do the talking.
Memphis, TN vs Nashville, TN
Memphis, TN vs Nashville, TN: What the data shows
Memphis, TN is in Memphis, TN while Nashville, TN is in Nashville, TN — both in the same state. On home prices, Memphis, TN is the more affordable option at $375,000 median — $75,000 less than Nashville, TN's $450,000. WYLT rates Memphis, TN as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Nashville, TN as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Nashville, TN has the stronger safety profile of the two. Memphis, TN has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Nashville, TN has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Memphis, TN has Low flood risk and Nashville, TN has Low flood risk.
Memphis, TN is the more walkable neighborhood. Memphis, TN scores 48/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Nashville, TN's 47/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Nashville, TN has the higher school rating — Memphis, TN rates 7/10 and Nashville, TN rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Memphis, TN | Nashville, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $375K ✓ Lower price | $450K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $90K ✓ Higher income | $80K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 48/100 ✓ More walkable | 47/100 |
| Transit Score | 44/100 ✓ Better transit | 32/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 40/100 |
| Commute | 30 min | 7 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 7.3/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | young professionalsfamilies with childrenstudents | Families with school-age childrenYoung professionals wanting easy access to downtownHomebuyers seeking a range of housing options |
Bottom line
If you're a young professional looking for proximity to downtown and want a relatively affordable option, you might consider Memphis' neighborhoods, despite their drawbacks. If you're a family with school-age children or want a wider range of housing options with an easy commute, Nashville's 37206 zone is the better choice, but be prepared for a higher cost of living. Ultimately, if budget is a significant concern, Memphis might be the more practical selection.
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