Living in Memphis has its great advantages.
However, just like all other areas in the world, a few demerits must be factored in when choosing a place to settle.
Memphis is no different, and having a critical look at the pros and cons can help you make the right decision for yourself and your family.
Make sure to do this right.
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Pros of Living in Memphis
Below are some of the benefits and advantages of living in Memphis.
It would be best to consider them before making the big move.
1. The Low Cost of Living
Life, in general, needs to be a major factor to be considered when picking a home for your family.
The day-to-day lifestyle should be something you can go through sustainably.
Moving to a region far beyond your means can be a lot of strain.
You may have to work several jobs or be away from home most of the time to make ends meet.
This may not be ideal for a family setup where small kids are involved.
What’s more, if you prefer comfort to strain, a place with a high cost of living is not ideal.
Fortunately, the cost of living in Memphis is reasonable.
Families can get by comfortably with a decent job and regular salary.
Being an affordable major metropolitan region is a plus for most people.
2. Affordable Cost of Homes
The other big challenge for most people is the cost of homes in an area.
If you want to rent or buy a home, you will be very keen on this factor.
It would be best if you certainly scouted for affordable home options.
Besides getting a variety and options of housing and homes, you would prefer affordable options.
There is a lot to cater to when you move to a new place, and a good price for homes is a plus.
Memphis is one of the places with greatly priced homes, and most people will find it affordable and easy to acquire.
The value of homes is considered at the median price, which makes them very affordable for most people.
As long as you have a steady salary and can afford to pay for your home, then you will be comfortable without feeling too stretched.
3. Basic Amenities are affordable
Most people in Memphis find it relatively affordable to afford most necessities to survive and thrive.
For example, it is easy to get groceries at an affordable rate.
In addition, hospital bills and other utilities one may need are generally cheaper than the national average.
This translates to not having to panic every time an emergency occurs.
Moreover, with a decent earning, it is easy to access good food and thrive in different sectors.
What’s more, all this is achievable without necessarily breaking the bank.
4. Income Tax Friendly
One thing that scares most people when choosing to move to different cities, states, or even towns is the income tax.
Fortunately, the income tax in Memphis is nothing to be scared about.
It is affordable, easy to work around, and something you can live with.
The fact that there are no individual income taxes is quite attractive and a big motivation to move to Memphis.
If you are looking for financial motivations to move, it should greatly influence your decision.
You can comfortably save a lot more this way since you do not have to pay a lot of your earnings in the tax form.
You will feel more impact if you earn substantial cash from your income-generating activities.
5. Lost of Education Options
Parents will worry about the school system in the neighborhood they choose to move to.
Whether work commitments or other reasons initiate the move, the fact that your kids need good schools is another one that could determine your decision to accept the move or not.
However, Memphis is one area with a robust public education network.
All you have to do is be careful with the location you decide to settle in.
Then, compare the different schools until you find the perfect fit for your kids.
While you should expect some differences based on the institutions in question, the most important factor is that there are options.
Higher learning institutions are also present if you want to further your education.
There are several colleges and universities in the area to consider.
6. Great Entertainment Options
Whether you love to party or not, it is always good to know where you can go to unwind and relax.
Memphis has a lot of such options for solo and family/ group entertainment.
The options available include festivals, music, and outdoor recreation.
You will also find entertainment options for kids and adults alike.
There is vibrant nightlife for those who enjoy hanging out in the evenings.
In addition, there are lots of eateries and joints to sample foods and beverages.
7. The Winter is Mild
Hard cold winters can be very discouraging.
If you do not appreciate a lot of snowfall and crazy cold weather, then Memphis sounds like a great option to move to.
The snowfall is usually minimal, and the winters are averagely comfortable.
8. Great Work Environment
There is a good reason why Memphis is considered one of the happiest cities for workers in the US.
People are generally happy to work in this city because of the low-income tax, which translates to more savings.
However, the professional lifestyle of most residents of Memphis seems to be better than in most other cities in the country.
Cons of Living in Memphis
Like there are good things to talk about Memphis, there are a few downsides you want to know about.
So then, compare and contrast the pros and cons to make the right choice.
1. Hot and Humid Summers
If you love spending your days outdoors during summer, you may want to be aware of this information.
The summers in Memphis are hot and humid, which can be a turn-off for some people.
Also, prepare to deal with mosquitoes and other bugs this season.
2. Severe Weather
The rainy season in Memphis can extend, leading to flooding.
This is a factor you need to be aware of.
It would be best if you find out the possibility of tornadoes, as they are quite frequent in the area.
Due to its location, Memphis tends to have harsh rainy seasons.
These are often accompanied by thunderstorms and hail storms which can be severe.
Be ready to adjust if this is not something you are used to.
3. Public Transport is Limited
You may have to invest in a car if you do not have one.
Moving to Memphis comes with public transport challenges, thanks to the city is spread out.
You also need to be aware of the heavy traffic around the metropolitan area, especially if you must pass around every day.
4. High Poverty Levels and Crime Rates
Unfortunately, this is one of the cities famed for this ill vice.
It has been rated as one of the USA’s second largest and most dangerous cities.
This can be attributed to the high levels of poverty which forces most people engaging in crime to do so as a means of survival.
While this can be discouraging and even scary, it is only a caution for you to be careful about where you choose your location.
Go for areas with better security measures.
Well-off suburban areas are great picks for people who can afford them.
5. Watch Out for Excessive Property and Sales Tax
While you have a high chance of saving on income taxes, the local government must collect some money to serve the locals.
Other types of taxes will have to cater to this.
Memphis is known for its high property tax rates.
Sales taxes are also quite steep and something you need to consider before deciding to move.
6. Socio-economic Inequalities
Not all people have stable incomes.
This means that there is a striking difference in the quality of life of residents.
This could attract unnecessary attention and even make you an easy target.
7. Not Great for Hiking Enthusiasts
Memphis is not your ideal home if you are more of an adrenaline outdoor junkie.
There are no mountains in the city, so you will have to travel outside often to enjoy hiking.
8. You Will Have to Watch Out Every Time
You never know when you could be a great target for crimes.
With 1 in every four people living in poverty, anyone can steal from you anytime.
Unless you are willing to invest in your safety or are a tough one, you may want to avoid moving to Mephis unless you need to.
Pros and Cons of Living in Memphis, TN – Summary Table
| Pros of Living in Memphis | Cons of Living in Memphis |
|---|---|
| 1. The Low Cost of Living | 1. Hot and Humid Summers |
| 2. Affordable Cost of Homes | 2. Severe Weather |
| 3. Basic Amenities are affordable | 3. Public Transport is Limited |
| 4. Income Tax Friendly | 4. High Poverty Levels and Crime Rates |
| 5. Lost of Education Options | 5. Watch Out for Excessive Property and Sales Tax |
| 6. Great Entertainment Options | 6. Socio-economic Inequalities |
| 7. The Winter is Mild | 7. Not Great for Hiking Enthusiasts |
| 8. Great Work Environment | 8. You Will Have to Watch Out Every Time |
Memphis Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Memphis Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: HIGH
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: LOW
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I save in Memphis?
Yes.
If you are sure about your strategies, you can become financially independent here.
How is the education system?
You will find various options in Memphis as far as schools are concerned.
Make sure to do your due diligence to be safe.
Should I move to Memphis?
Decide on the move once you have weighed the pros and cons and know what will work for you first.
How can you describe the job market in Memphis?
There are several big companies ready and willing to absorb workers.
All sectors are well represented, so Memphis is considered a rich region regarding work availability.
Are there good job opportunities in Memphis?
Yes.
Memphis is a great place for all sorts of workers.
Creatives can find their place here just as well as professionals do.
All you have to do is be open-minded and ready to work, and you will make it here.
Memphis is a city with its own unique charm and challenges.
While it offers affordable living, good education options, and a great work environment, it also has its downsides such as hot summers, severe weather, and high poverty and crime rates.
Living in Memphis has its perks, such as a low cost of living, affordable homes, and plenty of entertainment options. However, it also has its downsides, including hot and humid summers, severe weather, limited public transportation, high poverty and crime rates, and socio-economic inequalities. It’s important to carefully consider both the pros and cons before making the decision to move to Memphis.