Murfreesboro, TN vs. Antioch, TN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Murfreesboro vs Antioch. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Murfreesboro vs Antioch in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is one of the biggest factors in the cost of living difference between Murfreesboro and Antioch. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare:
| Housing Type | Murfreesboro | Antioch |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,250 | $1,400 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $350,000 | $390,000 |
🏆 Winner: Murfreesboro
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, with Murfreesboro residents paying slightly less on average. Expect monthly utility bills around:
- Murfreesboro: $180-$220
- Antioch: $200-$240
Both cities experience hot summers and mild winters, so seasonal fluctuations in energy usage are comparable. Murfreesboro offers more off-peak utility plans to help manage costs.
🏆 Winner: Murfreesboro
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs and everyday expenses like dining out are quite close between Murfreesboro and Antioch. Expect to pay around 5% less for groceries and household goods in Murfreesboro. Restaurant prices are nearly identical.
🏆 Winner: Murfreesboro, but it’s close
4. Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are higher in Antioch, averaging 1.1% compared to 0.9% in Murfreesboro. City service fees like trash and recycling are $5-10/month higher in Antioch as well. HOA fees tend to be pricier in Antioch neighborhoods.
🏆 Winner: Murfreesboro
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Murfreesboro | Antioch |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,250 | $1,400 |
| Utilities | $200 | $220 |
| Groceries | $350 | $370 |
| Transportation | $60 | $55 |
| Taxes & Fees | $300 | $350 |
| Misc | $200 | $200 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,360 | $2,595 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Murfreesboro is more affordable overall, Antioch offers tradeoffs that may suit certain lifestyles better:
- Antioch has more public transportation and feels more urban/walkable
- Murfreesboro offers more space, larger yards, and a quieter suburban feel
- Antioch averages 2°F warmer than Murfreesboro year-round
7. FAQ
Is Murfreesboro more affordable than Antioch?
Yes, the cost of living in Murfreesboro is about 10% lower than Antioch as of 2025. Housing and taxes are the biggest savings.
Which city has lower rent?
Murfreesboro has lower rent, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $150 less per month than in Antioch.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Murfreesboro has a lower median home price, with a 3BR house costing around $40,000 less than a comparable home in Antioch.
8. Conclusion
Murfreesboro offers a lower cost of living for most households, with particular savings in housing, utilities, and taxes. A family moving from Antioch to Murfreesboro might save $400/month on core expenses alone.
However, Antioch’s walkability and transit access may be worth the tradeoff for some lifestyles. Use this monthly budget breakdown for Murfreesboro to estimate your specific cost of living.
Ultimately, both cities provide a high quality of life for a reasonable cost compared to other parts of the country. Your specific budget, housing needs, and lifestyle preferences can help you decide whether Murfreesboro or Antioch is the best fit.