Factors that influence moving costs from Phoenix to Knoxvilletoggle

The cost of Phoenix movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Phoenix to Knoxville might cost as little as $1,590, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $11,089.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Phoenix, 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 $1,298 to $3,192. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Phoenix to Knoxville

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

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

Phoenix Knoxville
Average rent cost $1,695 $1,795
Average home value $411,139 $350,035
Average income (per capita) $64,552 $61,050
Cost of living (single person) $2,369 $2,184
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,226 $5,200
Unemployment rate 6.6% 4.7%
Sales tax 8.6% 9.25%
State income tax 2.5% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in Knoxville are 6% higher than in Phoenix, 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 Knoxville.
    Home prices in Knoxville are 14.9% lower than in Phoenix.
  • Income in Knoxville is 5.4% lower than in Phoenix, 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 7.8% lower than in Phoenix. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family is the same in Knoxville and Phoenix.
  • The unemployment rate in Knoxville is 28.79% lower than in Phoenix.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Knoxville, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Knoxville are 7.56% higher than in Phoenix.
  • One perk of moving to Knoxville is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Phoenix.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,765.72 in Knoxville to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Phoenix.

How life is different in Phoenix vs. Knoxville

Knoxville Phoenix
Population 190,740 1,608,139
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 6
Walkability score 31 41
Bike friendliness score 30 56
Crime Index 42.54 53.06
Safety Index 57.46 46.94
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Knoxville's population is about 88% less than Phoenix.
  • Knoxville's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Phoenix's higher score of 6.
  • Knoxville is less walkable than Phoenix with a score of 31 out of 100 vs Phoenix's 41 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 Phoenix, which has a score of 56 out of 100.
  • Knoxville's crime rate is lower than Phoenix with a score of 42.54 compared to Phoenix's 53.06. This means that Knoxville neighborhoods are safer than 42.54% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Phoenix neighborhoods are safer than 53.06%.
  • Knoxville is considered to be safer than Phoenix with a safety index of 57.46 vs Phoenix's 46.94.
  • Air quality in Knoxville is good, and in Phoenix it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Phoenix 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: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Tennessee moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: Tennessee does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Knoxville. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance.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 will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.

Where to live in Knoxville

Now that you've decided to make the move to "Marble City", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Knoxville.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Farragut
  • Seymour
  • Lenoir City
  • Louisville
  • Eagleton Village

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Maryville
  • Alcoa
  • Louisville
  • Loudon
  • Clinton

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 Phoenix to Knoxville?

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

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

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

The 1,814-mile journey from Phoenix, AZ to Knoxville, TN typically takes five to 16 days. Some movers in Phoenix 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