($1,104) Movers From Charleston, SC to Knoxville, TN

What to know before moving from Charleston to Knoxville

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

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

• Rent prices in Knoxville are 28% lower than in Charleston, which means you’ll have more money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Knoxville.
  Home prices in Knoxville are 37.4% lower than in Charleston.
• Income in Knoxville is 2.0% lower than in Charleston, 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 58.8% lower than in Charleston. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Knoxville is 34.1% lower than in Charleston.
• The unemployment rate in Knoxville is 17.50% higher than in Charleston.
• You’ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Knoxville, since the city’s sales taxes in Knoxville are 2.78% higher than in Charleston.
• One perk of moving to Knoxville is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Charleston.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,236.23 in Knoxville to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Charleston.

How life is different in Charleston vs. Knoxville

• Knoxville's population is about 27% greater than Charleston.
• Knoxville's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Charleston's lower score of 3.
• Knoxville is less walkable than Charleston with a score of 31 out of 100 vs Charleston's 40 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 Charleston, which has a score of 50 out of 100.
• Knoxville and Charleston have a similar crime rate.
• Knoxville and Charleston are considered to be equally safe.
• Air quality in Knoxville is good, and in Charleston it's good.

Other things to consider for your Charleston 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