Memphis is a major city located along the Mississippi River in the southwestern corner of Tennessee. If you’re considering relocating to Memphis, here’s a quick guide to what you can expect:
Cost of Living
Compared to other large cities, Memphis has a very affordable cost of living. Housing costs are reasonable, especially if you look in the outlying suburbs. Groceries, utilities, and other daily expenses are also lower than the national average.
Weather
Memphis has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The summer heat can be intense, with highs in the 90s from June through September. Winters are mild, with average highs in the 50s. Severe storms are not uncommon in spring and fall.
Culture
Memphis is renowned for its musical heritage, particularly blues, soul, and rock and roll. It’s the home of Sun Studio, where music legends like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash recorded their first hits. The city also boasts a vibrant arts scene. Barbecue and Southern cuisine are a big part of the food culture.
Things to Do
Top attractions include Graceland, Elvis’ famous mansion, the National Civil Rights Museum, Beale Street for live music, and the Memphis Zoo. Sports fans can catch a Memphis Grizzlies NBA game or Memphis Tigers college football. There’s great nightlife, riverboat cruises, and outdoor activities along the Mississippi River.
Neighborhoods
After relocating with Black Tie Moving to any of the popular neighborhoods for newcomers like Downtown, Midtown, Cooper-Young, East Memphis, and Germantown. you can discover their own unique vibes, amenities, and housing options for long stay. Public transportation is limited, so having a car is recommended.
Job Market
Major employers in Memphis include FedEx, International Paper, Baptist Memorial Healthcare, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Jobs are available in transportation and logistics, medical services, tourism, and more. The cost of living is affordable, but wages tend to be lower than other metropolitan areas.
Here are some additional details that could be included in an article about moving to Memphis
Transportation
- Memphis has limited public transportation options compared to other major cities. The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) operates bus routes, but no light rail or commuter trains.
- Traveling by car is the predominant transportation method. Interstates 40, 55, and 240 provide access across the city. Traffic can get heavy during rush hour but is manageable compared to other metro areas.
- Memphis International Airport serves the city. It’s a hub for cargo giant FedEx as well as a passenger airport with flights to destinations across the U.S.
Education
- Shelby County Schools is the main public school district in Memphis. It has over 100 elementary, middle, and high schools. Private school options are also available.
- The University of Memphis is the largest university in the city. Other higher education choices include Rhodes College, Christian Brothers University, and Southwest Tennessee Community College.
Neighborhoods
- Popular neighborhoods like Cooper-Young and Overton Square have walkable streets lined with shops, restaurants, and music venues.
- Germantown and Collierville are affluent suburbs east of Memphis. Large homes, quality schools, and retail developments attract many families.
- Downtown along the riverfront features attractions like Beale Street, hotels, and FedEx Forum arena. It also offers great views of the Mississippi River bridges.
Outdoor Activities
- Shelby Farms Park is a massive green space with trails, lakes, and facilities for sports like disc golf, basketball, and volleyball.
- The Memphis River Parks system lines the Mississippi River downtown with walking paths, picnic areas, and river overlooks.
- The Memphis Botanic Garden and the Dixon Gallery and Gardens are scenic spots for strolling through flowers and nature.
Overall, Memphis provides an authentic taste of the south with a reasonable cost of living. It’s a laidback city with lots of culture and entertainment. Just be prepared for the summer heat!
