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Eviction-Friendly Apartments in Memphis, TN

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Renting After an Eviction in Memphis

Memphis offers one of the most affordable rental markets among major U.S. cities, with very low rents and a massive inventory of single-family rental homes. The city's large number of private landlords and investor-owned properties create abundant options for renters with eviction histories. While Tennessee provides limited tenant protections, Memphis's affordability and rental volume make it very accessible.

Tennessee Eviction Record Laws

Eviction Record Sealing
Not available. Tennessee does not have a statewide eviction record sealing law. Eviction filings remain on Shelby County court records.
Screening Lookback Period
Most Memphis landlords check eviction records for 7 years. Many private landlords prioritize income over detailed rental history.
Tenant Screening Restrictions
Tennessee has no source-of-income protections or tenant screening restrictions. Landlords have broad discretion.

Housing Options in Memphis After an Eviction

Likelihood indicates how likely each option is to accept applicants with eviction records.

TypeDescriptionLikelihood
Private individual landlordsMemphis has one of the largest inventories of privately managed single-family rental homes in the country, with very affordable rents.high
LIHTC / tax credit apartmentsShelby County has affordable housing communities with income-based eligibility.moderate
Second-chance leasingSome Memphis apartment complexes accept tenants with past evictions.moderate
Memphis Housing AuthorityMHA manages public housing and Section 8 vouchers with individual reviews.low
Transitional housingMIFA, Union Mission, and Salvation Army provide transitional housing.moderate
Room rentals and shared housingRoom rentals throughout Memphis are available with minimal screening.high

Strategies for Renting with an Eviction in Memphis

  1. 1.

    Target private landlords in South and North Memphis

    South Memphis, North Memphis, Whitehaven, Raleigh, and Frayser have thousands of affordable privately managed rental homes.

  2. 2.

    Emphasize income stability

    Memphis's very low rents make it easy to show excellent rent-to-income ratios.

  3. 3.

    Offer financial incentives

    A larger deposit or prepaid rent can quickly overcome any concerns about past evictions.

  4. 4.

    Work with Memphis housing programs

    Community Alliance for the Homeless and MIFA (Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association) provide housing assistance.

  5. 5.

    Apply broadly and persistently

    Memphis has such a large rental inventory that applying to many properties simultaneously is an effective strategy.

  6. 6.

    Explore surrounding areas

    Millington, Bartlett, and Southaven, MS offer additional affordable options.

Local Housing Resources in Memphis

Organizations that can help you find housing after an eviction.

Memphis Housing Authority

Housing Authority

Manages public housing and Housing Choice Vouchers in Memphis.

(901) 544-1100website700 Adams Ave., Memphis, TN 38105

Memphis Area Legal Services

Legal Aid

Provides free legal services to low-income Shelby County residents facing eviction.

(901) 523-8822website

MIFA (Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association)

Housing & Support

Provides emergency financial assistance, housing help, and senior services.

(901) 527-0208website

211 Tennessee — Shelby County

Helpline

Dial 211 for housing assistance referrals in the Memphis area.

211

Tips for Renting with an Eviction in Memphis

  • 1.Check Shelby County General Sessions Court records to verify your eviction history.
  • 2.Memphis has some of the lowest rents of any major city — your income goes very far here.
  • 3.South Memphis, North Memphis, Whitehaven, Raleigh, and Frayser have the most affordable private rentals.
  • 4.Many Memphis landlords use yard signs, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist.
  • 5.Apply to multiple properties simultaneously — Memphis's volume means persistence works.
  • 6.Contact Memphis Area Legal Services if your eviction was improperly handled.
  • 7.MIFA can help with emergency financial assistance for move-in costs.
  • 8.Consider Millington, Bartlett, and Southaven, MS for nearby affordable alternatives.

Average Rent in Memphis

$900

/month (1BR)

$1,100

/month (2BR)

With subsidized housing (LIHTC or Section 8), you typically pay 30% of your adjusted gross income — often significantly less than market rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent an apartment in Memphis with an eviction on my record?
Yes. Memphis's very affordable market and massive private rental inventory make it one of the easiest major cities to find housing with a past eviction.
How long does an eviction stay on my record in Tennessee?
Eviction filings remain on court records indefinitely. Screening services report evictions for up to 7 years.
Does Memphis Housing Authority accept applicants with evictions?
MHA reviews applications individually. Past evictions are considered in context.
Are there free legal services for tenants in Memphis?
Yes. Memphis Area Legal Services provides free legal help to low-income Shelby County residents.
What areas of Memphis are best for eviction-friendly rentals?
South Memphis, North Memphis, Whitehaven, Raleigh, and Frayser have the most affordable and accessible private rentals.
Can I seal my eviction record in Tennessee?
Tennessee does not have an eviction record sealing law.

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Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Eviction laws, tenant screening practices, and housing availability change frequently. Always contact properties directly to confirm current policies. An eviction on your record does not automatically disqualify you from housing — many landlords evaluate applicants individually. For legal advice about your eviction record or tenant rights, contact a legal aid organization or a HUD-approved housing counselor.

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