Let the numbers do the talking.
Knoxville, TN vs Nashville, TN
Knoxville, TN vs Nashville, TN: What the data shows
Knoxville, TN is in Knoxville, TN while Nashville, TN is in Nashville, TN — both in the same state. On home prices, Nashville, TN is the more affordable option at $450,000 median — $43,900 less than Knoxville, TN's $493,900. WYLT rates Knoxville, TN as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Nashville, TN as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Nashville, TN has the stronger safety profile of the two. Knoxville, TN has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Nashville, TN has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Knoxville, TN has Low flood risk and Nashville, TN has Low flood risk.
Knoxville, TN is the more walkable neighborhood. Knoxville, TN scores 66/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Nashville, TN's 47/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Nashville, TN has the higher school rating — Knoxville, TN rates 6.7/10 and Nashville, TN rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Knoxville, TN | Nashville, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $494K | $450K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $63K | $80K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 66/100 ✓ More walkable | 47/100 |
| Transit Score | 71/100 ✓ Better transit | 32/100 |
| Bike Score | 36/100 | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 90 min | 7 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.7/10 | 7.3/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Commuters to NashvilleStudents and young professionalsRemote workers | Families with school-age childrenYoung professionals wanting easy access to downtownHomebuyers seeking a range of housing options |
Bottom line
For commuters to Nashville, Knoxville's 37902 might be a decent choice, despite its high cost of living and smaller feel, as it offers more affordable options than Nashville. For families or young professionals seeking an urban feel, top-rated schools, and easy access to downtown, Nashville's 37206 is likely the better bet. Ultimately, Nashville's 37206 is a more well-rounded and attractive option for those seeking a quality of life trade-off.
Share this comparison