The Salary Index

Salary Comparison

Computer Programmers: Seattle vs Memphis

Side-by-side salary, take-home pay, cost of living, and lifestyle score.

Best Value

Seattle, WA

$167,970/yr

Take-home$10,218/mo
Disposable$6,848/mo
Lifestyle10/10 ยท Comfortable

Memphis, TN

$77,880/yr

Take-home$4,738/mo
Disposable$2,406/mo
Lifestyle8/10 ยท Comfortable
๐Ÿ†

Our recommendation: Seattle, WA

Seattle offers $4,442 more per month in disposable income, giving a stronger financial outcome despite comparable pay.

Full Breakdown

Seattle

Memphis

Diff (Aโˆ’B)

Annual Gross Salary

$167,970

$77,880

+$90,090

A vs B

Monthly Take-Home

After estimated federal + state taxes

$10,218

$4,738

+$5,480

A vs B

Cost of Living Index

Lower is more affordable. US avg = 100

126

90

+36 pts

A vs B

Monthly Living Costs

Housing, food, transport, utilities, healthcare

$3,370

$2,332

+$1,038

A vs B

Monthly Rent

$2,050

$1,341

+$709

A vs B

Monthly Disposable

$6,848

$2,406

+$4,442

A vs B

Purchasing Power Score

Take-home รท living costs. Higher is better

3.03ร—

2.03ร—

+1.00ร—

A vs B

Lifestyle Score

10/10 (Comfortable)

8/10 (Comfortable)

+2

A vs B

Salary estimates based on BLS metro data. Cost of living from regional price indices. All figures are estimates; verify with employers before making decisions.