($1,394) Movers From Houston, TX to Knoxville, TN

What to know before moving from Houston to Knoxville

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

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

• Rent prices in Knoxville are 16% higher than in Houston, which means you’ll have less money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Houston.
  Home prices in Knoxville are 32.6% higher than in Houston.
• Income in Knoxville is 12.6% lower than in Houston, 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 21.2% lower than in Houston. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Knoxville is 27.3% lower than in Houston.
• The unemployment rate in Knoxville is 14.63% higher than in Houston.
• You’ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Knoxville, since the city’s sales taxes in Knoxville are 12.12% higher than in Houston.
• State income taxes are the same in Knoxville and Houston.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,365.34 in Knoxville to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Houston.

How life is different in Houston vs. Knoxville

• Knoxville's population is about 92% less than Houston.
• Knoxville's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Houston's higher score of 5.
• Knoxville is less walkable than Houston with a score of 31 out of 100 vs Houston's 47 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 Houston, which has a score of 49 out of 100.
• Knoxville's crime rate is lower than Houston with a score of 42.54 compared to Houston's 63.5. This means that Knoxville neighborhoods are safer than 42.54% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Houston neighborhoods are safer than 63.5%.
• Knoxville is considered to be safer than Houston with a safety index of 57.46 vs Houston's 36.5.
• Air quality in Knoxville is good, and in Houston it's good.

Other things to consider for your Houston 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: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
• Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
• State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Tennessee, visit the state's public utilities commission
• Moving permits: While Tennessee doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
• Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Knoxville without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Knoxville

With your sights set on "Marble City", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Knoxville.

Helpful moving resources