salaryKnoxville is 11% cheaperBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Knoxville to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,983
$1,544
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,622
$1,305
💵 Families earn per year
$84,017
$58,281
🔑 Buying a house
$334,100
$239,700
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
103.6
92.6
🏛️ Property tax per year
$4,943
$1,527
⚡ Electric bill per month
$90
$180
👥 People living there
2,711,226
195,185
Commute to work
33.1 min
20.2 min
College degree
44.3%
34.6%
Own their home
46%
46.6%
Below poverty line
16.8%
20.2%
Unemployment
8%
4.5%
Bottom line
- Pick Chicago for higher incomes, a more educated workforce, less poverty.
- Pick Knoxville for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes and 2 more.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Chicago | Knoxville | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer | $107,810 | $56,380 | -48% in Knoxville |
| Firefighter | $82,820 | $47,160 | -43% in Knoxville |
| Electrician | $102,350 | $58,640 | -43% in Knoxville |
| Plumber | $103,380 | $59,860 | -42% in Knoxville |
| Carpenter | $80,440 | $50,400 | -37% in Knoxville |
| HVAC Technician | $77,960 | $56,780 | -27% in Knoxville |
| Licensed Practical Nurse | $78,070 | $57,960 | -26% in Knoxville |
| Lawyer | $165,660 | $126,520 | -24% in Knoxville |
Frequently asked questions
Is Chicago or Knoxville cheaper to live in?
Knoxville is about 11% cheaper overall. Rent is $1,544 a month there versus $1,983 in Chicago.
What salary do I need in Knoxville to match $60,000 in Chicago?
About $53,614 a year gives the same standard of living in Knoxville.
Where do people earn more, Chicago or Knoxville?
The typical household earns $84,017 in Chicago and $58,281 in Knoxville, 44% more in Chicago.