College Costs in Knoxville, TN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in Knoxville, Tennessee. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,792
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$47,660
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$955
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
Knoxville Overview
Population
190,740
Student Population
66,996 (35.1%)
Cost of Living Index
85 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
63/100
Transit Score
44/100
Unemployment Rate
6.6%
College Cost Calculator for Knoxville
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$76,368
Total After Financial Aid
$76,368
Annual Cost
$19,092
Annual After Aid
$19,092
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $76,368 |
| Monthly Payment | $867 |
| Total Interest | $27,689 |
| Total Loan Cost | $104,057 |
Universities in Knoxville
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Tennessee | Public | $13,264 |
| Pellissippi State Community College | Public | $4,320 |
| Pellissippi State Community College | Community | $4,320 |
Knoxville has 5 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Knoxville vs. National Average
| Category | Knoxville | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,792 | $10,940 | -$2,148 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $955 | $1,050 | -$95 |
| Cost of Living Index | 85 | 100 | -15 |
Knoxville's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in Knoxville
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Some Transit
Student Population
66,996 students
Knoxville has a total population of 190,740, with approximately 66,996 college students (35.1% of the population). As a major college town, Knoxville offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Knoxville
$43,580
Starting Salary
6.6%
Unemployment Rate
47%
Graduation Rate
~9 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Knoxville earn a median starting salary of $43,580, which is $8,580 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $76,368 (including room and board), it would take approximately 9 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,344 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Tennessee
Nashville
35 colleges · Avg tuition $9,312
Memphis
22 colleges · Avg tuition $9,944
Chattanooga
5 colleges · Avg tuition $9,648
Clarksville
9 colleges · Avg tuition $9,312
Murfreesboro
10 colleges · Avg tuition $9,312
Johnson City
6 colleges · Avg tuition $9,312
Cookeville
4 colleges · Avg tuition $9,312
Sewanee
3 colleges · Avg tuition $11,397
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