12 Memphis Neighborhoods To Put on Your Radar in 2024

If you’re looking to move to a place with a low cost of living, friendly residents, access to free community college, and plenty of well-paying jobs, then you’ve got to check out some of the best Memphis neighborhoods! 

Memphis is a magnet for families and young professionals alike who are looking for educational and career opportunities. Not to mention it’s a haven for music lovers. And when it comes to housing, there are plenty of options in many of the best neighborhoods in Memphis — that are affordable to boot. 

When it comes to taxes, Tennessee has no personal income tax, and state and local taxes are among some of the lowest in the country (so you’ll feel the savings whether you’re in Memphis, Nashville, or Knoxville), meaning you can count on keeping more of your money in your pocket. 

Memphis is also one of the most diverse cities in the state, and here you’ll find immigrants from all over the world, a growing Latino community, and a vibrant African-American population. These communities contribute to the top-notch music, food, and cultural scenes across the city, so you can always find something new and interesting to enjoy! 

Memphis is famous for its nightlife, but there’s much more to the area than what you know from TV.

Memphis at a Glance

• Memphis has a population of 633,104.
• Thanks to the jobs and educational opportunities, lots of students, young professionals, and families call the city home.
• The average home value in Memphis is around $149,300, compared to Tennessee's average of around $320,200 and the national average of around $359,900.
• The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Memphis is around $1,075, while the Tennessee average rent is around $1,500 and the national average is around $1,750.
• Memphis is known for its soul food, BBQ, live music scene, parks, and greenways.

Q: What is the nicest area of Memphis, TN?
A: Central Gardens and Belle Meade are some of the nicest Memphis neighborhoods.

Q: What areas to stay away from in Memphis?
A: Some of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Memphis, according to AreaVibes, are Parkway Village-Oakhaven, Shelby Forest-Frayser, and Downtown.

Q: Where is the richest part of Memphis?
A: Wealthier parts of Memphis include neighborhoods like Mud Island, Harbor Town, Chickasaw Gardens, and Belle Meade. 

Q: What are the safest areas in Memphis, TN?
A: Safe neighborhoods in Memphis include Chickasaw Gardens and Belle Meade

Harbor Town gives its residents easy access to downtown with plenty of riverfront recreation.

1. Harbor Town

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,575
• Median home sale price: $488,000
• Great for: Young professionals, families, access to riverfront activities

If you’ve always wanted to live in a Memphis neighborhood complete with amazing views of the Mississippi River and easy access to Downtown Memphis, then consider the Harbor Town area. Located on Mud Island, this neighborhood is perfect for families or young professionals who are commuting into the city. The large Greenbelt Park that follows the river is perfect for walking the dog (there’s a dog park, too, though!) or going for a bike ride with the whole family. Mud Island Park also includes a marina, the Memphis Yacht Club, and a scale model of the Mississippi River.

Although it’s not one of the largest Memphis neighborhoods, it still has plenty of single-family homes and apartment complexes offering residents plenty of options for urban, upscale living. Be sure to catch live music at the Harbor Town Amphitheater, grab some Southern comfort food at Kinfolk, and stop in the cozy Cordelia’s Market for some rare finds. 

2. Central Gardens

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,250
• Median home sale price: $462,500
• Great for: Retirees, historic homes, easy access to Memphis’ cultural scene

When it comes to the best neighborhoods in Memphis, Central Gardens is not only one of the most beautiful in Memphis, but it’s also on the National Register of Historic Places. Here, you’ll find tree-lined streets with homes dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries, making this a quiet place for retirees or families. Children can easily walk to two well-ranked schools that serve the neighborhood, the Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal School and Idlewild Elementary School. And the community has been described as a “front porch neighborhood,” where residents enjoy sitting outside and sharing drinks and conversation with their neighbors, creating a welcoming community vibe.

Living here means you can easily be at the sprawling Overton Park for a stroll, a bike ride, a tour of the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, a visit to The Memphis Zoo, or a concert at the Overton Park Shell. The Children’s Museum of Memphis and the entertaining Overton Square are also close by.

3. Belle Meade

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,175
• Median home sale price: $1.05M
• Great for: Retirees, upscale living, access to outdoor activities

Belle Meade is a charming, friendly Memphis neighborhood conveniently located to cultural attractions, shopping, and plenty of great dining options. Here, residents can easily be at the Laurelwood Shopping Center, the Oak Court Mall, or the Poplar Commons in minutes. And you’ll be able to pick up grocery essentials, shop for new clothes, or hit the gym at LA Fitness.

Having easy access to the Memphis Botanic Garden is one of the neighborhood’s major draws for outdoor enthusiasts. This wonderful public park allows you to see live music at Live at the Garden, play golf at Links at the Audubon, or just walk the trails at your own pace.

And residents love getting their Creole fix at the popular Restaurant Iris or enjoying American favorites and craft cocktails at Belle Meade Social.

The nearby University of Memphis makes the surrounding area ideal for students and young pros.
(Source: university-grounds.com)

4. University

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $950
• Median home sale price: $68,000
• Great for: Students, young professionals, convenient location, affordable housing

Whether you’re a student at the University of Memphis or a young professional who wants an easy commute in an affordable area, consider looking at the University area of Memphis. There are a variety of apartment complexes in the area, including Tiger Flats Apartments, University District, and Brister Cove, so you’re sure to find a space with an easy walk or bike ride to campus. Rather rent a house with some besties? This is the perfect place for that, too!

And South Highland and Southern Avenue offer all kinds of options when it comes to delicious fare, including vegan options at Plant Based Heat or breakfast at Brother Juniper’s (just be prepared to wait in line on the weekends!).

5. East Memphis

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,175
• Median home sale price: $315,000
• Great for: Families, young professionals, convenient location, shopping

One of the most interesting Memphis neighborhoods you can choose to live in is East Memphis. It comes with a great mix of residential and business areas, which means you’ll never be far from shopping or dining. If golf or court activities like tennis and pickleball are your thing, you’ll also be pleased to know that both the Chickasaw Country Club and the Memphis Country Club are in the East Memphis area. 

And in addition to the nearby University of Memphis, families can send their children to good schools, like Hutchison and MUS. Residents can also stay active at Shelby Farms Park, which features trails, picnic areas, fishing, a playground, gardens, and more. 

6. Cooper Young

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,050
• Median home sale price: $245,000
• Great for: Young professionals, students, artsy people

Located just south of the historic Central Gardens neighborhood is one of the liveliest and art-focused Memphis neighborhoods — Cooper Young. Just stroll down Cooper Street and you’ll find all kinds of eclectic shops. There are plenty of breakfast and lunch spots — like Kitchen Laurel and Young Avenue Deli — plus fantastic happy-hour spots like Celtic Crossing Irish Pub and the Beauty Shop (complete with vintage hair dryers!). 

And, of course, there are plenty of places to view the arts here, as well. Check out the New Ballet Ensemble (or take a class), see new art at the Jay Etkin Gallery, take an art class or purchase handmade arts and crafts from local artists at the Arrow Creative, or see a theater production at Playhouse on the Square. There are so many ways to enjoy this vibrant Memphis neighborhood, including taking part in its long-running festival that celebrates all things arts, crafts, and music — the Cooper Young Festival!

(Source: cremedememph.blogspot.com)

7. Chickasaw Gardens

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,175
• Median home sale price: $695,000
• Great for: Families, retirees, upscale living, safety

One of the best neighborhoods in Memphis for anyone looking for upscale living spaces in a convenient location is Chickasaw Gardens. This historic area has been maintained dutifully by the residents, who are all members of the Chickasaw Gardens Homeowners Association. They seek to keep the tree-lined streets, common areas, and stunning homes of this neighborhood looking beautiful. And living here means you’ll have access to the Chickasaw Gardens Lake, the park, and Cypress Creek. 

As a resident, you can also enjoy the nearby Memphis Country Club for golf or tennis or the Memphis Sports and Events Center. And although the area is exclusive, it’s also conveniently located near fun things to do in Memphis like the Memphis Museum of Science and History, the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library, and the Simmons Bank Liberty Bowl (where you can see the UofM Tigers in action!).

8. South Main Historic Arts District

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,500
• Median home sale price: $255,000
• Great for: Young professionals, festivals, local eateries

Live right along the river and in the heart of historic Downtown Memphis in the South Main neighborhood. Residents enjoy some of the best dining and cultural experiences in the city here, ranging from classic BBQ to upscale eats. Walk to Central BBQ, for example, or enjoy Tuscan fare at the popular Catherine & Mary’s. There are lots of lively places to grab a cocktail, as well, including WiseAcre Brewing Co. and SOB Downtown. 

South Main also offers Trolley Nights (an homage to the vintage trolley that rolls through the district) on the last Friday of every month, complete with music, open houses at local shops, and specials on food and drinks.

And for extra uniqueness, a lot of the city’s buildings that were constructed during the early part of the 20th century still retain much of their original charm — even though many have been expertly converted into hotels, museums, and living spaces. The former Lorraine Motel (where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was assassinated) is now the National Civil Rights Museum, and the former railroad station is now a boutique hotel, for instance. 

9. High Point Terrace

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,100
• Median home sale price: $325,000
• Great for: Families, retirees, walkable neighborhood

What makes High Point Terrace so great for families and retirees? You can easily stay active when you live here, since the Shelby Farms Greenline access point is located right in the area. Enjoy walking or biking on the paved trail, or go for a jog with the dog. Residents of High Point Terrace also enjoy being able to walk to restaurants like Cheffie’s Cafe and Bryant’s Breakfast, which serves some of the best breakfast in Memphis, hands down.

Parents will especially appreciate that there are a variety of good schools in this neighborhood, including Grahamwood Elementary School. And golf-loving retirees will love the close proximity to The Links at Galloway and the Chickasaw Country Club. 

The Crosstown neighborhood was reimagined from a commercial area, with its centerpiece Crosstown Concourse being born from a former Sears building.

10. Crosstown

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,000
• Median home sale price: $246,000
• Great for: Young professionals, artists, lots of eateries

Although the Crosstown neighborhood of Memphis spreads over both sides of the North Parkway, the heart of it is located at the Crosstown Concourse. Formerly a Sears building from 1927, it has been converted into a 1.5-million-square-foot mecca for places to eat, drink, enjoy the arts, and see shows. Not only are there restaurants, art galleries, bars, and places for artists to work, but the building also houses Crosstown High School, Parcels at Concourse, and a small hotel. This reimagined space has fun and engaging experiences for everyone.

What are some of these experiences, you ask? The Crosstown Art Galleries are free and open to the public, but you can also catch shows at The Green Room or the Crosstown Theater, including the popular $5 film series. Grab cocktails at the Global Cafe, or enjoy a bite to eat with the whole family at Mad Grocer. And there’s also a YMCA for easy gym and exercise access. Sounds like the complete package, huh?

11. Colonial Acres

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,000
• Median home sale price: $225,000
• Great for: Families, young professionals, central location

One of the more affordable Memphis neighborhoods is Colonial Acres, which is located right along I-240, making it a great area to call home if you commute to work or school. It is also conveniently located not far from the Memphis Botanic Garden, where you can stroll through 30 specialty gardens, take a class in landscape design, take a tram tour, or do family yoga in the gardens. This neighborhood also boasts a few parks of its own, including the walking trails and picnic tables in Marquette Park, as well as Godwin Park — located next to Willow Oaks Elementary School.

The Marion Hale Community Center features a pool for the summer months, and kids can sign up for rec sports, as well. The Eastgate Shopping Center is also right across Park Avenue, where you’ll find staples like Home Depot, Burlington, and Crunch Fitness. When you’re ready to try some local eats, the Half Shell restaurant is a must.

Collierville

If you’re looking for a tight-knit community feel and a slower pace of life that’s perfect for retirees or families, then Collierville is the perfect place for you! It’s known for its community engagement and stellar school system. Not to mention, it’s packed with exciting history. The Morton Museum of Collierville History is a great place to get immersed in the camaraderie and history, as it hosts educational events like author lunch and learns, book clubs, local artist shows, and discussions on Collierville history. You can also tour three historic trains that were a major part of the growth of this Memphis suburb.

The award-winning Collierville Town Square is also home to fun events like the Bluegrass Jam on the Square and Scare on the Square, as well as a host of amazing restaurants like the Silver Caboose Restaurant and Soda Fountain and Dyer’s Cafe. And nearby Main St. is where you’ll find classic car shows during the summer as well as rustic Italian food served in a 19th-century house at Caffe Piazza.

Germantown

Ranked by many outlets as the No. 1 best place to live in the Memphis area is the charming area of Germantown. Thanks to its convenient location near Interstate 240, young professionals working in the Downtown area and students commuting to the University of Memphis will enjoy calling this place home. It’s also known for its safety and fantastic public school system.

Sure, Memphis is the Birthplace of Rock and Roll (it’s where Elvis is from, after all), but Germantown offers its own performing arts center where you can catch jazz shows, plays, lunches in the grove, and artist receptions. You can also stay active at the Germantown Athletic Club or stop by the community library and learn a new skill, join a club, or take a class.

PODS has the know-how to help you move to one of the best Memphis neighborhoods.

PODS Can Help You Move to One of the Best Memphis Neighborhoods

If you’re ready to make the move to the Bluff City, then why not do it the easy way with a portable storage container from PODS? They’ll deliver it right to your driveway, so you can fill it up on your schedule with all your belongings. And when you’re ready to move, they can pick it up from anywhere in Tennessee — or across the nation — and drive it to your new Memphis home. You can choose to have it delivered straight to your driveway, or you can store it in a secure storage facility until you’re ready to unload.

Editor’s note: Average rent prices were obtained from RentCafe and Zumper; average home values were obtained from Zillow; and median home sale prices were obtained from Redfin. For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home prices were rounded to the nearest $100.