Moving from Baltimore to Knoxville (2026)

Knoxville has a COL index of 87 vs 110 for Baltimore (100 = US average). You'd pay about 21% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$685/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
11087
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,300
per month
State tax
4.8%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,441$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Knoxville to match your Baltimore lifestyle

Based on the 21% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in BaltimoreEquivalent in Knoxville
$40K$31,636
$50K$39,545
$60K$47,455
$75K$59,318
$80K$63,273
$100K$79,091
$120K$94,909
$150K$118,636

Monthly budget at $75K — Baltimore vs Knoxville

ExpenseBaltimoreKnoxville
Monthly take-home$4,441$4,741
1BR rent$1,900$1,300
Groceries$391$361
Transport$88$45
Utilities$175$168
Internet$65$60
Left after essentials$1,822$2,807

Frequently asked questions

Is Knoxville cheaper than Baltimore?

Yes. Knoxville has a cost of living index of 87 vs 110 for Baltimore (100 = US average). That's about 21% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Baltimore to Knoxville?

On a $75K salary, moving from Baltimore to Knoxville could save roughly $685/month on core expenses. That's ~$8,220/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Baltimore, you'd need roughly $59,318/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