Moving from Tacoma to Knoxville (2026)

Knoxville has a COL index of 87 vs 114 for Tacoma (100 = US average). You'd pay about 24% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$636/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
11487
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,300
per month
State tax
NoneNone
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Knoxville to match your Tacoma lifestyle

Based on the 24% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in TacomaEquivalent in Knoxville
$40K$30,526
$50K$38,158
$60K$45,789
$75K$57,237
$80K$61,053
$100K$76,316
$120K$91,579
$150K$114,474

Monthly budget at $75K — Tacoma vs Knoxville

ExpenseTacomaKnoxville
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,741
1BR rent$1,900$1,300
Groceries$399$361
Transport$90$45
Utilities$118$168
Internet$63$60
Left after essentials$2,171$2,807

Frequently asked questions

Is Knoxville cheaper than Tacoma?

Yes. Knoxville has a cost of living index of 87 vs 114 for Tacoma (100 = US average). That's about 24% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Tacoma to Knoxville?

On a $75K salary, moving from Tacoma to Knoxville could save roughly $636/month on core expenses. That's ~$7,632/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Tacoma, you'd need roughly $57,237/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