Moving from Lexington to Knoxville (2026)
Knoxville has a COL index of 87 vs 89 for Lexington (100 = US average). You'd pay about 2% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Knoxville to match your Lexington lifestyle
Based on the 2% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Lexington | Equivalent in Knoxville |
|---|---|
| $40K | $39,101 |
| $50K | $48,876 |
| $60K | $58,652 |
| $75K | $73,315 |
| $80K | $78,202 |
| $100K | $97,753 |
| $120K | $117,303 |
| $150K | $146,629 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Lexington vs Knoxville
| Expense | Lexington | Knoxville |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,491 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,350 | $1,300 |
| Groceries | $365 | $361 |
| Transport | $60 | $45 |
| Utilities | $158 | $168 |
| Internet | $60 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,498 | $2,807 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Knoxville cheaper than Lexington?
Yes. Knoxville has a cost of living index of 87 vs 89 for Lexington (100 = US average). That's about 2% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Lexington to Knoxville?
On a $75K salary, moving from Lexington to Knoxville could save roughly $59/month on core expenses. That's ~$708/year.
What salary do I need in Knoxville to match my Lexington lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Lexington, you'd need roughly $73,315/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