Moving from Albany to Knoxville (2026)

Knoxville has a COL index of 87 vs 92 for Albany (100 = US average). You'd pay about 5% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$164/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9287
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,400$1,300
per month
State tax
6.9%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,309$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Knoxville to match your Albany lifestyle

Based on the 5% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in AlbanyEquivalent in Knoxville
$40K$37,826
$50K$47,283
$60K$56,739
$75K$70,924
$80K$75,652
$100K$94,565
$120K$113,478
$150K$141,848

Monthly budget at $75K — Albany vs Knoxville

ExpenseAlbanyKnoxville
Monthly take-home$4,309$4,741
1BR rent$1,400$1,300
Groceries$380$361
Transport$68$45
Utilities$185$168
Internet$65$60
Left after essentials$2,211$2,807

Frequently asked questions

Is Knoxville cheaper than Albany?

Yes. Knoxville has a cost of living index of 87 vs 92 for Albany (100 = US average). That's about 5% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Albany to Knoxville?

On a $75K salary, moving from Albany to Knoxville could save roughly $164/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,968/year.

What salary do I need in Knoxville to match my Albany lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Albany, you'd need roughly $70,924/year in Knoxville. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only