Houston, TX vs Knoxville, TN: 88 vs 74

$1,313/mo ↑ 18%

Median Rent

$1,116/mo ↓ 15%

$62,894/yr ↑ 23%

Median Income

$50,994/yr ↓ 19%

$253,400 ↑ 18%

Home Value

$214,000 ↓ 16%

$1,316/mo ↑ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,075/mo ↓ 18%

2,300,419

Population

193,721

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Knoxville, TN, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 74 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $197/month cheaper in Knoxville, saving renters about $2,364/year.

Median household income is $11,900/year higher in Houston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $214,000 in Knoxville.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Knoxville — common questions

Is Houston or Knoxville cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Knoxville is cheaper to live in with an index of 74 compared to 88 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Knoxville?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Knoxville it's $1,116/month — a difference of $197/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Knoxville?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $50,994 in Knoxville. Median household income is $11,900/year higher in Houston.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Tennessee?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Knoxville?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/mo, while Knoxville has a cost index of 74 with rent of $1,116/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Knoxville, TN (2026)

Houston

Knoxville

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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