Factors that influence moving costs from Boston to Knoxvilletoggle

The cost of Boston movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Boston to Knoxville might cost as little as $1,411, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $7,640.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Boston, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $766 to $1,863. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Boston to Knoxville

Moving from Boston to Knoxville means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Boston than in Knoxville, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Boston compares to Knoxville so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Boston Knoxville
Average rent cost $3,400 $1,795
Average home value $739,121 $350,035
Average income (per capita) $89,212 $61,050
Cost of living (single person) $4,820 $2,184
Cost of living (family of 4) $11,304 $5,200
Unemployment rate 6.2% 4.7%
Sales tax 6.25% 9.25%
State income tax 9.0% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in Knoxville are 47% lower than in Boston, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Knoxville.
    Home prices in Knoxville are 52.6% lower than in Boston.
  • Income in Knoxville is 31.6% lower than in Boston, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Knoxville include Regal Cinemas Corp, Regal, and Pilot Flying J.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Knoxville is 54.7% lower than in Boston. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Knoxville is 54.0% lower than in Boston.
  • The unemployment rate in Knoxville is 24.19% lower than in Boston.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Knoxville, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Knoxville are 48.00% higher than in Boston.
  • One perk of moving to Knoxville is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Boston.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,359.34 in Knoxville to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Boston.

How life is different in Boston vs. Knoxville

Knoxville Boston
Population 190,740 675,647
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 9
Walkability score 31 98
Bike friendliness score 30 86
Crime Index 42.54 39.88
Safety Index 57.46 60.12
Air Quality Good Good
  • Knoxville's population is about 72% less than Boston.
  • Knoxville's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Boston's higher score of 9.
  • Knoxville is less walkable than Boston with a score of 31 out of 100 vs Boston's 98 out of 100.
  • Knoxville has a bike-friendliness score 30 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Boston, which has a score of 86 out of 100.
  • Knoxville and Boston have a similar crime rate.
  • Knoxville and Boston are considered to be equally safe.
  • Air quality in Knoxville is good, and in Boston it's good.

Other things to consider for your Boston vs. Knoxville move

  • Weather: Best months to move into Knoxville are September, May and October as weather during are considered pleasant. Winters are generally much cooler and less stable, with occasional small amounts of snow.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, make sure the moving company youโ€™ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if youโ€™re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Tennessee moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: Tennessee doesn\โ€™t require moving permits, but it\โ€™s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Youโ€™ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Knoxville. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.When it comes to movers' insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Knoxville

Ready to relocate to "Marble City"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Knoxville.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Oak Ridge
  • Alcoa
  • Maryville
  • Lenoir City
  • Louisville

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Oak Ridge
  • Alcoa
  • Louisville
  • Loudon
  • Clinton

Things to do in Knoxville

After settling into your new Tennessee home, youโ€™ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Knoxville has lots to offer, no matter what youโ€™re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Knoxville is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Knoxville Museum of Art, East Tennesse Historical Society, Muse Knoxville, Old Smoky Railway Museum, and Art Market Gallery.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Lakeshore Park, World's Fair Park, Krutch Park, and Fort Dickerson Park โ€” among other sites โ€” are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Tennessee Volunteers (SEC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Boston to Knoxville?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Boston to Knoxville. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Boston.

When is the cheapest time to move from Boston to Knoxville?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Boston to Knoxville, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Boston to Knoxville take?

The 926-mile journey from Boston, MA to Knoxville, TN typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Boston offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Knoxville.

Helpful moving resources