Downtown, Memphis, TN

Population: 48,441 livability score shield

Key findings

  • Downtown has a Livability Score of 62/100, which is considered below average
  • Downtown crime rates are 49% higher than the Memphis average
  • Cost of living in Downtown is 7% lower than the Memphis average
  • Downtown real estate prices are 39% lower than the Memphis average
  • Rental prices in Downtown are 15% lower than the Memphis average

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Compare Memphis, TN Livability

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      Downtown Reviews

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      Most Dangerous Metro City and Homicides Have Increased
      Attractions5/10
      Community2/10
      Nightlife4/10
      Dining6/10
      Shopping5/10
      We feel like prisoners because it's too dangerous to go outside at any time. It has gotten worse since we moved here 9 years ago. We are planning to move out of Memphis and we are not moving to the outer areas. The crime is bad all over. The city is trying to build up Downtown but the crime keeps us from enjoying it So, I'm rating at the lowest. Don't move here!
      0 0
      Not Worth It
      Attractions6/10
      Community4/10
      Nightlife8/10
      Dining8/10
      Shopping3/10
      Downtown Memphis has improved greatly over the last 30+ years. Remember, this is the place where MLK was assassinated in 1968, and in many respects, the city remains stuck in 1968. The city is obsessed over race, it is sadly unescapable and it makes living in Memphis more stressful than it should be. The CEO of the Memphis Chamber of Commerce was murdered in early evening in September 2018 in a random robbery attempt in one of Downtown Memphis' newest, nicest areas. Some like this area, many do not. Take your chances, if you like, but know that there are highly dangerous, virtually uninhabitable areas of downtown very close to some of the nicest tourist areas. In addition, the skyline is not impressive (my opinion), and bear in mind that many of the old, larger buildings you see on the skyline are empty. Don't believe the marketing and the hype.
      2 -1
      Downtown Memphis - Rich with Memphians and Barbeque
      Attractions9/10
      Community7/10
      Nightlife7/10
      Dining7/10
      Shopping7/10
      I've lived in the downtown Memphis area for approximately 5 years. It's encircled by Krump Blvd, the Wolf River, Danny Thomas and Poplar. The area is full of diversity, culture and history. Many types of races and nationalities combine together to form the downtown Memphis area. It's full of those who prefer to travel by foot, bus or car. The public transportation is not as good as Chicago or New York, but it will get you where you need to go.

      One of the bigger attractions for this area is the University of Memphis. It's long-standing educational base attracts students from all areas, all walks of life including, but not limited to students overseas. There are several fields in which to major that will produce a very lucrative career.

      Moreover, Memphis is known for it's food, especially the barbecue. Practically anywhere you travel in the city, you'll be bombarded and overwhelmed by the smells and tastes the food has to offer. As a tourist, you'll definitely want to take advantage of the many food options that Memphis provides. Barbecue is not only popular; the fried fish can hold it's own among many other options.

      Additionally, not only is the food great, but the people that live in the neighborhood and surrounding areas really know how to extend southern hospitality. The generosity and genuineness of the people really make you want to unpack your bags and stay if you're a tourist. If you live there, it's enough to make you not want to pack up your bags and go. You'll always find someone willing to help in some type of way if you find yourself in need, and, if they can't help you, they'll find someone who can.

      On the down side, Memphis is known for its crime, and the downtown area is no exception. However, it's not so bad that the area is not livable. You just have to be more cautious of your surroundings and, if you notice anything suspicious, contact MPD, the Memphis Police Department. They are here to help and are always alert and on duty.
      So, if you're thinking of moving to Memphis, come on down. Memphians are waiting to shower you with their southern hospitality, and the food is ready to be devoured. Again, you might have to be more cautious than other places, but you will definitely not regret your decision to visit Memphis.
      0 -3
      Source: The Downtown, Memphis, TN data and statistics displayed above are derived from the 2016 United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS).