Average Salary in Knoxville, TN
Across the 411 professional occupations we track, the median salary in Knoxville is $86,000/year. Knoxville, Tennessee offers career opportunities with no state income tax. All figures are Knoxville-specific, adjusted for local cost of living and updated quarterly from BLS and H-1B disclosures.
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Working in Knoxville, Tennessee: Salary Guide (2026)
Knoxville is home to the KnoxvilleβTN metropolitan area with a population of 190,740. The city has a cost of living index of 85 (US average = 100), meaning salaries go approximately 15% further here than in an average US city.
One of the most significant financial advantages of working in Knoxville is Tennessee's complete absence of a state income tax. Workers here keep 5β9% more of their earnings compared to peers in California (9.3% state tax), New York (6.85%), or Illinois (4.95%).
Top-paying industries in Knoxville
Knoxville's economy spans multiple high-wage sectors. The city's diverse employer base creates strong demand across technology, healthcare, finance, and professional services.
Knoxville salary FAQ
What is the average salary in Knoxville, TN?
Pay in Knoxville varies widely by occupation. Across the 411 professional roles we track, the median salary is about $86,000 per year β adjusted for Knoxville's cost of living (index 85, where 100 is the US average) and Tennessee's lack of a state income tax. Use the tables above to see the median for a specific job title.
Which jobs pay the most in Knoxville?
Among the roles we track, Oral Surgeon is the highest-paying in Knoxville at a median of $360,000 per year. Technology, healthcare, and finance roles generally top the list.
Does Knoxville have a state income tax?
No β Tennessee has no state income tax, so workers in Knoxville keep more of their paycheck than peers in high-tax states like California (up to 13.3%) or New York.
How far does a salary go in Knoxville?
Knoxville's cost of living index is 85 (US average = 100), so a dollar stretches about 15% further here than in an average US city. A $86,000 salary here has roughly the buying power of $101,176 in an average-cost city.