Cost of Living in Knoxville, TN

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Knoxville? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $7,241 per year — Tennessee levies no state income tax, so that figure covers federal tax only. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,471/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Knoxville metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $45,107, or roughly $3,759 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Knoxville metro has a cost of living index of 78.6 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 21% below the national average, Knoxville is a genuinely affordable metro where everyday expenses stretch further than in most cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Knoxville represents approximately 25% of gross income. That approaches the 30% threshold commonly used to define affordability. A smaller unit or a higher salary would improve the picture. Tennessee's zero income tax helps offset the rent burden compared to otherwise similar cities that also levy state income tax.