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Cost of Living in Knox County

Is it better to rent or buy in Knox County? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

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Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$82,081
$1,361/mo

Median in area: $1,361

$339,403

Median in area: $339,403

$67,881

If you Rent

🔑
$1,531 /mo
Base Rent$1,361
Est. Utilities$170
% of Income22.4%
Pre-tax Residual$5,309

If you Buy

🏠
$2,196 /mo
P&I (6.976%)$1,802
Taxes & Ins$224
Est. Utilities$170
% of Income32.1%
Pre-tax Residual$4,644

Compare Nearby Areas

See how Knox County stacks up against neighboring areas.

countyGrainger County, TN
$797/mo
countyUnion County, TN
$836/mo
countySevier County, TN
$1,131/mo
countyBlount County, TN
$1,100/mo
countyAnderson County, TN
$1,040/mo

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Knox County?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Knox County. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,531, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $2,196 per month (a difference of $665).

How much do utilities cost in Knox County?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Knox County is approximately $170. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Knox County?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Knox County without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $61,240 per year.