Memphis attracts renters seeking authentic southern culture, world-class barbecue, and access to major employers like FedEx and AutoZone. Music history comes alive on every corner, from the birthplace of rock and roll at Sun Studio to Elvis Presley’s home at Graceland. The city's 314 square miles span from the historic downtown core to tree-lined suburban neighborhoods, each offering distinct character and charm.
If you’re looking to move to Memphis, there are plenty of neighborhoods to choose from. We’ve compiled a list of the best places to rent in Memphis.
The five best neighborhoods in Memphis for renters are:
Chickasaw Gardens
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Memphis: $1,040/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Chickasaw Gardens: $1,257/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Chickasaw Gardens: 733 square feet
Why Chickasaw Gardens is good for renters
Chickasaw Gardens offers a residential feel with tree-canopied streets and historic homes, providing easy access to both East Memphis, shopping along Poplar Avenue, and University of Memphis football games at Liberty Stadiums. The neighborhood maintains a quiet, established character, but the community comes together each year for the East Buntyn Art Walk.
Keep in mind
The neighborhood requires a car for most daily activities, and rental availability can be more limited compared to higher-density areas closer to Downtown Memphis.
Cooper-Young
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Memphis: $1,040/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Cooper-Young: $1,052/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Cooper-Young: 675 square feet
Why Cooper-Young is good for renters
Cooper-Young is an artsy historic district featuring charming bungalow-style rentals that create a neighborhood feel within the larger city. The area hosts the popular Cooper-Young Festival each year, a city-wide celebration of Memphis arts and music culture, and annual Cooper-Young Porchfest celebrates local musicians. Renters enjoy living in a quieter corner of town while staying close to Midtown Memphis' attractions and downtown employment centers.
Keep in mind
The neighborhood's popularity can make parking challenging during festivals and weekend events, and rental inventory moves quickly due to high demand.
Crosstown
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Memphis: $1,040/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Crosstown: $1,105/month
Why Crosstown is good for renters
Crosstown centers around the innovative Crosstown Concourse, a converted Sears building now housing art studios, restaurants, offices, and residential spaces, but celebrates the city’s history with preserved architecture in Victorian Village. This rapidly developing area bridges Midtown and Downtown, allowing renters to enjoy the best of both worlds while living in one of Memphis’ most forward-thinking neighborhoods.
Keep in mind
Crosstown is still developing its full residential character, and some amenities and services may be more limited compared to more established neighborhoods.
Midtown Memphis
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Memphis: $1,040/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Midtown Memphis: $1,150/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Midtown Memphis: 732 square feet
Why Midtown is good for renters
Midtown Memphis puts you at the heart of the city's cultural scene, with Overton Square offering theaters, restaurants, and nightlife within walking distance. The neighborhood provides easy access to the Memphis Zoo and Overton Park, and renters appreciate the walkable streets and proximity to all the action. Rhodes College is also nearby, making it a great spot for commuters.
Keep in mind
Midtown Memphis' popularity means higher demand for rentals, and some areas can get busy during events at Overton Square and the nearby entertainment venues.
South Main
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Memphis: $1,040/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in South Main: $1,277/month
Why South Main is good for renters
South Main puts you in the heart of Memphis' downtown renaissance, with converted warehouse lofts and modern apartment communities just steps from the Orpheum Theatre and Tom Lee Park's riverfront trails. The neighborhood connects easily to Beale Street's music venues via the Main Street Trolley, while local coffee shops, galleries, and restaurants create an artsy, urban environment. Renters appreciate the authentic downtown experience without the premium pricing found in other major cities.
Keep in mind
Parking can be limited in the busiest areas, and you'll want to factor in street noise from downtown traffic and nightlife venues.
Ready to Make the Move?
Whether you're drawn to the musical energy of the city center or the community feel of the suburbs, you'll find rental options that fit your lifestyle and budget. Use Apartments.com's search filters to explore Memphis rentals by neighborhood, price range, and amenities. Our detailed listings include photos, floor plans, and neighborhood information to help you find the perfect place to call home in the Bluff City.
Methodology
These neighborhoods were selected based on rental market data, walkability, access to amenities, cultural attractions, and overall livability factors for renters. The analysis considered proximity to employment centers, entertainment districts, parks, dining options, and transportation access. Rent and cost of living data are sourced from the Apartments.com Rent Trends pages and Cost of Living Calculator.
FAQs
Is Memphis a good place to live?
Yes, Memphis is a good place to live for renters who are looking for rich cultural heritage, an urban feel, and affordable living in a city that loves music. The city provides access to major employers, world-class music venues, and extensive park systems while maintaining a strong sense of southern hospitality.
What is Memphis known for?
Memphis is internationally recognized as the birthplace of rock and roll, home to Sun Studio, Graceland, and the legendary Beale Street music scene. The city is also famous for Memphis-style barbecue, the National Civil Rights Museum, and serving as a major logistics hub anchored by FedEx's world headquarters.
Is Memphis an expensive place to live?
The cost of living in Memphis is about 11% lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to live. Housing costs remain reasonable compared to many major cities, making it attractive for renters seeking value without sacrificing urban amenities.
What is the average rent in Memphis?
The average 1-bedroom rent in Memphis is $1,040 per month, with studio apartments averaging $959 and 2-bedroom units averaging $1,077. Rent prices have remained relatively stable with minimal year-over-year changes.
What salary do you need to live in Memphis?
According to our cost of living data, a comfortable salary for a single adult with no dependents to cover housing, utilities, groceries, and goods and services in Memphis would be about $71,000 before tax
