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Rent vs Buy in Memphis, TN

Pre-filled with 2026 median data for Memphis. Adjust any number to match your situation.

Median Home Price

$185,000

Median Rent/Month

$1,200

Property Tax Rate

1.34%/yr

Avg Appreciation

2.2%/yr

Adjust Your Numbers

$185,000
20% ($37,000)
$1,200
7.0%
7 years

Is It Worth Buying a Home in Memphis, TN?

The decision to rent or buy in Memphis, Tennessee depends on how long you plan to stay, your down payment, and current mortgage rates. With a median home price of $185,000 and median monthly rent of $1,200, the math plays out differently depending on your personal situation.

Memphis has an average property tax rate of 1.34% annually, which adds approximately $207/month to the cost of homeownership on a median-priced home.

Historically, home values in Memphis have appreciated at roughly 2.2% per year, which works in favor of buyers who plan to stay long-term. Use the calculator above to find your personal break-even point.

Key Factors for Memphis Buyers

  • Down payment of 20% on a median home = $37,000
  • Monthly mortgage (30yr at 6.99%) ≈ $984/mo
  • Property tax ≈ $207/mo
  • Estimated maintenance ≈ $154/mo