Factors that influence moving costs from Knoxville to Kansas Citytoggle

The cost of Knoxville movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Knoxville to Kansas City might cost as little as $1,463, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,224.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Knoxville, 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 $613 to $1,567. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Knoxville to Kansas City

Moving from Knoxville to Kansas City comes with exciting new opportunities โ€” but also higher living costs. Since Kansas City is generally more expensive than Knoxville, itโ€™s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Knoxville Kansas City
Average rent cost $1,795 $1,300
Average home value $350,035 $233,378
Average income (per capita) $61,050 $64,551
Cost of living (single person) $2,184 $2,473
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,200 $6,361
Unemployment rate 4.7% 5.3%
Sales tax 9.25% 8.4%
State income tax 0.0% 4.8%
  • Rent prices in Kansas City are 28% lower than in Knoxville, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Kansas City.
    Home prices in Kansas City are 33.3% lower than in Knoxville.
  • Income in Kansas City is 5.7% higher than in Knoxville, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Kansas City include Public School System, Federal Government, and State/County/City Government.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Kansas City, since the cost of living for a single person in Kansas City is 13.2% higher than in Knoxville. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If youโ€™re moving your family to Kansas City, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Kansas City is 22.3% higher than in Knoxville.
  • The unemployment rate in Kansas City is 12.77% higher than in Knoxville.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Kansas City, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Kansas City are 9.19% lower than in Knoxville.
  • State income taxes in Kansas City are 4.80% higher than in Knoxville.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,396.98 in Kansas City to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Knoxville.

How life is different in Knoxville vs. Kansas City

Kansas City Knoxville
Population 508,090 190,740
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 4
Walkability score 35 31
Bike friendliness score 35 30
Crime Index 58.4 42.54
Safety Index 42.6 57.46
Air Quality Good Good
  • Kansas City's population is about 166% greater than Knoxville.
  • Kansas City's public transportation has a similar score to Knoxville.
  • Kansas City is more walkable than Knoxville with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Knoxville's 31 out of 100.
  • With a score of 35 out of 100, Kansas City is more bike-friendly than Knoxville, which has a score of 30 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Kansas City's crime rate is higher than Knoxville with a score of 58.4 compared to Knoxville's 42.54. This means that Kansas City neighborhoods are safer than 58.4% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Knoxville neighborhoods are safer than 42.54%.
  • Kansas City is considered to be less safe than Knoxville with a score of 42.6 vs Knoxville's 57.46.
  • Air quality in Kansas City is good, and in Knoxville it's good.

Other things to consider for your Knoxville vs. Kansas City move

  • Weather: Kansas City is in an area of the country with a lot of storms, very hot summers, and very cold winters. Therefore, there's chance that your move will be affected by the weather. Check the forecast ahead of time to plan accordingly. Remember, moves often require spending many hours outdoors.
  • HOA rules: Itโ€™s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, itโ€™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: Movers that provide local and intrastate relocation services in Missouri fall under the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). Every household goods mover operating in the state is required to have a MoDOT Number. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโ€™s license in Missouri, visit the state's public utilities commission
  • Moving permits: While Missouri doesnโ€™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 Kansas City 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. Opt for Released Value Protection, the budget-friendly choice with no extra cost from movers. This minimal coverage ensures that movers are liable for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per item. For a comprehensive coverage of your valuables, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider. Ensure the full value of your items is covered by consulting with the moving company for suitable alternatives.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Kansas City

With your sights set on "KC", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Kansas City.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • River Market
  • Union Hill
  • Volker
  • West Plaza
  • West Waldo

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Armour Hills
  • Brookside
  • Sunset Hill
  • Volker
  • Waldo

Things to do in Kansas City

Once youโ€™re settled into your new home in Missouri, itโ€™s time to get out and discover what Kansas City has to offer. No matter your interests, thereโ€™s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Kansas City features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, National World War I Museum and Memorial, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, and Union Station.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden, Loose Park, Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site, and Line Creek Trail โ€” among other spots โ€” perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Kansas City Chiefs (NFL), Kansas City Royals (MLB), Sporting Kansas City (MLS), or Sporting Kansas City II (MLS Next Pro) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Knoxville to Kansas City?

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

When is the cheapest time to move from Knoxville to Kansas City?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Knoxville to Kansas City, 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 Knoxville to Kansas City take?

The 731-mile journey from Knoxville, TN to Kansas City, MO typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Knoxville offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Kansas City.

Helpful moving resources