Factors that influence moving costs from Philadelphia to Knoxvilletoggle

The cost of Philadelphia movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Philadelphia to Knoxville might cost as little as $1,330, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $7,576.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Philadelphia, 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 $590 to $1,340. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Philadelphia to Knoxville

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

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

Philadelphia Knoxville
Average rent cost $1,695 $1,795
Average home value $216,914 $350,035
Average income (per capita) $70,746 $61,050
Cost of living (single person) $2,541 $2,184
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,190 $5,200
Unemployment rate 10.6% 4.7%
Sales tax 8.0% 9.25%
State income tax 3.07% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in Knoxville are 6% higher than in Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia.
    Home prices in Knoxville are 61.4% higher than in Philadelphia.
  • Income in Knoxville is 13.7% lower than in Philadelphia, 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 14.0% lower than in Philadelphia. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Knoxville is 16.0% lower than in Philadelphia.
  • The unemployment rate in Knoxville is 55.66% lower than in Philadelphia.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Knoxville, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Knoxville are 15.63% higher than in Philadelphia.
  • One perk of moving to Knoxville is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Philadelphia.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,578.51 in Knoxville to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Philadelphia.

How life is different in Philadelphia vs. Knoxville

Knoxville Philadelphia
Population 190,740 1,603,797
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 9
Walkability score 31 75
Bike friendliness score 30 67
Crime Index 42.54 66.09
Safety Index 57.46 33.91
Air Quality Good Good
  • Knoxville's population is about 88% less than Philadelphia.
  • Knoxville's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Philadelphia's higher score of 9.
  • Knoxville is less walkable than Philadelphia with a score of 31 out of 100 vs Philadelphia's 75 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 Philadelphia, which has a score of 67 out of 100.
  • Knoxville's crime rate is lower than Philadelphia with a score of 42.54 compared to Philadelphia's 66.09. This means that Knoxville neighborhoods are safer than 42.54% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09%.
  • Knoxville is considered to be safer than Philadelphia with a safety index of 57.46 vs Philadelphia's 33.91.
  • Air quality in Knoxville is good, and in Philadelphia it's good.

Other things to consider for your Philadelphia 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: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulationsโ€”some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
  • 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Tennessee moving company\โ€™s license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
  • Moving permits: You wonโ€™t need a moving permit in Tennessee, though it\โ€™s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly toKnoxville Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations.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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Knoxville

Now that youโ€™ve chosen "Marble City" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Knoxville to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Alcoa
  • Seymour
  • Louisville
  • Eagleton Village
  • Loudon

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Oak Ridge
  • Maryville
  • Alcoa
  • Louisville
  • Loudon

Things to do in Knoxville

Now that you've made the move to Tennessee, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Knoxville. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโ€™s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Youโ€™ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Knoxville, such as 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€” along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Tennessee Volunteers (SEC) game.

FAQ

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

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

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

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

The 625-mile journey from Philadelphia, PA to Knoxville, TN typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Philadelphia 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