Cost of Living in Knoxville, Tennessee 2026

Q: What is the cost of living in Knoxville, Tennessee?

Knoxville in Tennessee has an estimated cost of living index of 115 (vs state average 100 and national average 100). Metro areas are typically 15% more expensive than their state average due to higher housing costs.

Q: How does Knoxville compare to the Tennessee state average?

Knoxville is estimated to be 15% more expensive than the Tennessee state average. This premium is primarily driven by housing costs in the metro area. Other costs (groceries, utilities, transportation) are typically within 15% of the state average.

Q: What salary do I need to live in Knoxville, Tennessee?

To live comfortably in Knoxville, Tennessee, a single adult typically needs $65,000-$95,000/year. A family of four generally needs $110,000-$160,000/year. These estimates account for housing costs in the metro area, state income taxes, and typical healthcare and food costs.

FinanceStackHub

📣 AI Cost of Living Advisor

Ask me anything about living in Knoxville: housing costs, commute times, neighborhood comparisons, tax implications, schools, or what salary you need to maintain your standard of living.

Example: "What's a realistic budget for a 2BR apartment in Knoxville?" or "Compare living in Knoxville vs Denver for a couple earning $150k"

🏢 Knoxville at a Glance

~115

Metro Cost Index
(est.)

$1,265/mo

Est. Median Rent
(2BR)

$357K

Est. Median Home
Price

100

Tennessee State
Avg Index

⚠ Estimated Metro-specific data is estimated from state averages. Actual costs may vary by neighborhood.

📈 Knoxville vs Tennessee vs National Average

Metric	Knoxville (Metro)	Tennessee (State Avg)	National Avg
Cost of Living Index	~115	100	100
Median Rent (2BR)	$1,265/mo	$1,100/mo	$1,200/mo
Median Home Price	$356,500	$0	$310,000
State Income Tax	0%	0% (No Tax)	5% (avg)

🏢 Other Metro Areas in Tennessee

💰 What Salary Do You Need in Knoxville?

Enter your current salary in another city to see what you'd need to earn in Knoxville to maintain the same purchasing power.

Current Salary

From City (for comparison)

Or ask: "What does my $90K salary in Ohio equal in Knoxville?"

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average rent in Knoxville, Tennessee?

The estimated median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Knoxville is approximately $1,265/month. Actual rent varies significantly by neighborhood, building age, and amenities. Studios typically run $822/mo; 3BR units $1,708/mo. Prices have risen 15% above the Tennessee state average due to metro-level housing demand.

Is Knoxville more expensive than other Tennessee cities?

Knoxville is estimated to be 15% above the Tennessee state average, making it among the more expensive areas in the state. The premium is primarily driven by housing costs. Other cities in Tennessee may offer 20-40% lower housing costs with similar employment opportunities.

What salary do I need to live comfortably in Knoxville?

A single adult in Knoxville typically needs $65,000-$95,000/year for a comfortable lifestyle (modest apartment, car, health insurance, food, entertainment, and modest savings). A family of four generally needs $110,000-$160,000/year. These estimates assume a standard middle-class lifestyle without exceptional luxuries or strict frugality.

Related Resources

Get a Personalized Analysis for Knoxville

Tell me your income, family size, and priorities for Knoxville and I'll build a detailed cost comparison for your specific situation.

Start AI Analysis