Factors that influence moving costs from Detroit to Knoxvilletoggle

The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Detroit to Knoxville might cost as little as $1,528, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,329.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Detroit, 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 $483 to $1,262. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Detroit to Knoxville

Moving from Detroit 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 Detroit than in Knoxville, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

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

Detroit Knoxville
Average rent cost $1,250 $1,795
Average home value $73,156 $350,035
Average income (per capita) $37,761 $61,050
Cost of living (single person) $2,500 $2,184
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,687 $5,200
Unemployment rate 9.06% 4.7%
Sales tax 6.0% 9.25%
State income tax 4.25% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in Knoxville are 44% higher than in Detroit, which means youโ€™ll have less money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Detroit.
    Home prices in Knoxville are 378.5% higher than in Detroit.
  • Income in Knoxville is 61.7% higher than in Detroit, so you could earn more 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 12.6% lower than in Detroit. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Knoxville is 22.2% lower than in Detroit.
  • The unemployment rate in Knoxville is 48.12% lower than in Detroit.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Knoxville, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Knoxville are 54.17% higher than in Detroit.
  • One perk of moving to Knoxville is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Detroit.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,620.80 in Knoxville to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Detroit.

How life is different in Detroit vs. Knoxville

Knoxville Detroit
Population 190,740 639,111
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 7
Walkability score 31 51
Bike friendliness score 30 52
Crime Index 42.54 72.92
Safety Index 57.46 27.08
Air Quality Good Good
  • Knoxville's population is about 70% less than Detroit.
  • Knoxville's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Detroit's higher score of 7.
  • Knoxville is less walkable than Detroit with a score of 31 out of 100 vs Detroit's 51 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 Detroit, which has a score of 52 out of 100.
  • Knoxville's crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 42.54 compared to Detroit's 72.92. This means that Knoxville neighborhoods are safer than 42.54% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
  • Knoxville is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 57.46 vs Detroit's 27.08.
  • Air quality in Knoxville is good, and in Detroit it's good.

Other things to consider for your Detroit 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

  • Farragut
  • Oak Ridge
  • Maryville
  • Lenoir City
  • Loudon

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Farragut
  • Oak Ridge
  • Maryville
  • 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 Detroit to Knoxville?

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

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Detroit 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 Detroit to Knoxville take?

The 513-mile journey from Detroit, MI to Knoxville, TN typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Detroit 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