Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
52% cheaper
Knoxville is 52% more affordable than San Jose. A $75,000 salary in San Jose is equivalent to $36,264 in Knoxville.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Tennessee salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Knoxville has a housing index of 73 while San Jose sits at 308 (national average = 100). The median home in Knoxville costs $240,000 compared to $1,300,000 in San Jose, a difference of $1,060,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Knoxville versus $3,100 in San Jose.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Knoxville scores 94 while San Jose scores 110.
Healthcare costs in Knoxville (93) are lower than San Jose (112).
Median household income in Knoxville is $42,898 compared to $117,324 in San Jose. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Knoxville.
Amazon affiliate links