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Tennessee vs California

A comprehensive side-by-side comparison of cost of living, wages, taxes, and housing between Tennessee and California. Updated for 2026.

Quick Summary

Tennessee is 51.5% cheaper to live in than California. However, California has a higher median household income ($87,200 vs $59,695). Average rent for a 1-bedroom is $1,050/mo in Tennessee vs $1,850/mo in California.

Cost of Living Index

90.7

Tennessee

142.2

California

36.2% lower in Tennessee

Minimum Wage ($/hr)

$7.25

Tennessee

$16.9

California

57.1% lower in Tennessee

Median Household Income

$59,695

Tennessee

$87,200

California

31.5% lower in Tennessee

Average 1BR Rent ($/mo)

$1,050

Tennessee

$1,850

California

43.2% lower in Tennessee

State Sales Tax Rate

7.00%

Tennessee

7.25%

California

3.4% lower in Tennessee

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tennessee or California cheaper to live in?expand_more

Tennessee has a lower cost of living index (90.7 vs 142.2), making it approximately 36.2% cheaper than California overall.

What is the minimum wage difference between Tennessee and California?expand_more

Tennessee has a minimum wage of $7.25/hr while California has $16.9/hr. The difference is $9.65/hr.

Which state has higher median income: Tennessee or California?expand_more

California has a higher median household income at $87,200, compared to $59,695 in Tennessee.

Explore Individual States

Tennessee

Minimum Wage Salary Calculator Unemployment Data

California

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