Knoxville, TN vs Salem, OR: 74 vs 105

$1,116/mo ↓ 16%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↑ 19%

$50,994/yr ↓ 29%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↑ 41%

$214,000 ↓ 44%

Home Value

$382,400 ↑ 79%

$1,075/mo ↓ 25%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↑ 34%

193,721

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Knoxville, TN and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 74 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $207/month cheaper in Knoxville, saving renters about $2,484/year.

Median household income is $20,906/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Knoxville is $214,000 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

Tennessee has no state income tax, giving Knoxville residents a significant tax advantage over Oregon's 9.9% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Knoxville vs Salem — common questions

Is Knoxville or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Knoxville is cheaper to live in with an index of 74 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Knoxville and Salem?

Median rent in Knoxville is $1,116/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $207/month.

Which city has higher income, Knoxville or Salem?

Median household income is $50,994 in Knoxville and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $20,906/year higher in Salem.

How do taxes compare between Tennessee and Oregon?

Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Knoxville or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Knoxville has a cost index of 74 with median rent of $1,116/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Knoxville, TN vs Salem, OR (2026)

Knoxville

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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