East Memphis

Memphis, TN

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$415,000 (Q2 2025 estimate for East Memphis, above city median)
Median Home Price
55–65 (varies by subarea; higher near Poplar Ave and shopping corridors)
Walkability Score
Public schools in East Memphis are among the highest rated in the city, with White Station High consistently ranked in the top 5% statewide.
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

Roughly bordered by Poplar Avenue to the north, I-240 to the west, Park Avenue to the south, and the city limits to the east. Includes subareas like Colonial Acres, Richland, and parts of Audubon Park.

Zip Codes

381173811938120

Market Data Summary

Price Range$275,000–$1,200,000+ (varies by subarea and property type)
Price per Sq Ft$185–$245 (higher for renovated or luxury homes)
Inventory LevelsRising inventory (up 16.8% YoY citywide), giving buyers more options and reducing bidding wars.[1][3]

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

Single-family homesTownhomesCondominiumsLuxury estates

Architectural Styles

Mid-century ranchTraditional brickColonial RevivalContemporary infillTudor

Property Details

Typical Lot Sizes0.2–0.5 acres (larger in estate sections)
Home Age Range1950s–1980s (majority), with new construction and renovations in select areas
Construction QualityGenerally high, with many homes updated or expanded; some pockets of original condition homes offer renovation potential.

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Diverse, with a mix of established professionals, families, and retirees. Higher median household income than city average. Racially and generationally mixed, with strong ties to local institutions and businesses.

Community Vibe

Suburban-urban blend: tree-lined streets, active neighborhood associations, and a strong sense of pride. Social, safe, and engaged.

Typical Residents

  • Families
  • Young professionals
  • Retirees
  • Executives

Family Friendly

Very family-friendly, with excellent schools, parks, and community centers. Popular with move-up buyers and families seeking stability and amenities.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • Shelby Farms Greenline
  • Audubon Park
  • Dixon Gallery & Gardens
  • Memphis Botanic Garden

Dining Options

  • Hog & Hominy
  • Folk’s Folly Steakhouse
  • Corky’s BBQ
  • Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen

Shopping Centers

  • Laurelwood Shopping Center
  • Oak Court Mall
  • Eastgate Shopping Center

Local Businesses

  • La Baguette Bakery
  • Novel Bookstore
  • Bari Ristorante
  • Eastgate Shopping Center

Education & Schools

Public schools in East Memphis are among the highest rated in the city, with White Station High consistently ranked in the top 5% statewide.
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

  • Richland Elementary
  • White Station Elementary
  • Grahamwood Elementary

Middle Schools

  • White Station Middle
  • Colonial Middle

High Schools

  • White Station High
  • Memphis University School (private)

Private Schools

  • St. Agnes Academy
  • St. Dominic School
  • Memphis University School
  • Lausanne Collegiate

Transportation & Accessibility

Transit & Roads

Public Transit

  • MATA bus routes along Poplar Ave and Park Ave

Major Roads

  • Poplar Avenue
  • Park Avenue
  • I-240

Commute & Walkability

Commute Times15–25 minutes to Downtown Memphis, 20–30 minutes to Memphis International Airport
WalkabilityModerate; car-dependent for most errands, but walkable pockets near shopping and schools.
ParkingAmple off-street parking; minimal permit or street parking issues.

Marketing Intelligence

Target Buyer Types

  • Families with school-aged children
  • Young professionals
  • Medical staff and executives
  • Retirees downsizing

Key Selling Points

  • Top-rated schools
  • Central location
  • Mature neighborhoods with character
  • Access to parks and shopping

Pricing Considerations

Price competitively within micro-market (by school zone and renovation level); staged, move-in ready homes command premium.

Common Objections & Response Strategies

Objection: Homes are older and may need updates.

Response Strategy:

Provide inspection reports, highlight recent renovations, and offer upgrade allowances if needed.

Objection: Property taxes are higher than in surrounding suburbs.

Response Strategy:

Emphasize value of location, schools, and amenities; compare total cost of ownership.

Objection: Walkability is limited in some areas.

Response Strategy:

Highlight proximity to major shopping/dining corridors and parks; suggest bike or golf cart options.

Investment Insights

Investment Potential

Appreciation Potential

Moderate and steady (3–4% annually forecasted for 2025–2026). Long-term value due to location, schools, and amenities.[2]

Rental Demand

Strong, especially for renovated homes and in proximity to schools and hospitals. Corporate and medical rentals are a niche market.

Buyer Competition

Less intense than 2021–2022, but still present for move-in ready homes in top school zones.

Best For

  • Families seeking top schools
  • Move-up buyers
  • Medical professionals
  • Investors seeking stable returns

Potential Concerns

  • Older homes may require updates
  • Higher property taxes than some suburbs
  • Limited new construction

Professional Recommendations

1

Focus on hyperlocal school and amenity data in marketing materials.

2

Network with local businesses and medical institutions for referral leads.

3

Stage homes to highlight flexible living and outdoor spaces.

4

Educate buyers on renovation potential and financing options.

5

Monitor inventory weekly and adjust pricing strategies accordingly.

Competitive Analysis

Comparable Markets

  • Germantown
  • Midtown Memphis
  • Cordova

Market Positioning

East Memphis is positioned as a premium, family-friendly neighborhood with enduring appeal and stable values.

Competitive Advantages

  • Central location
  • Top schools
  • Established community vibe
  • Diverse housing stock

Price Comparison

Priced above Midtown and Cordova, but below Germantown for similar home size and quality.

Investment Metrics

4.5–5.5% for single-family rentals (2025 estimates)
Cap Rates
5–6% gross annual yield (higher for updated homes)
Rental Yields
17–19 (reflects strong owner-occupant demand)
Price-to-Rent
Positive cash flow possible with 20% down on mid-priced homes; best in renovated properties near schools.
Cash Flow
3–4% annual appreciation projected through 2026.
Appreciation

Buyer Journey Insights

First-Time Buyers

May face affordability challenges, but can find value in smaller homes or condos; benefit from rising inventory and less competition.

Move-Up Buyers

Strong options for larger homes, top schools, and established neighborhoods; motivated by lifestyle upgrades.

Downsizers

Appealing single-level ranches and condos; proximity to healthcare and shopping is a plus.

Investors

Stable rental demand, moderate cap rates, and low vacancy; best returns in renovated or multi-family properties.

Relocators

Central location, access to top schools, and amenities make East Memphis a top choice for those moving to Memphis.

This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

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