Tennessee Cost of Living Calculator
Tennessee's cost of living index is 89.5 (US average = 100). See what salary you'd need to maintain your lifestyle when moving to or from Tennessee.
What is the cost of living in Tennessee?
Tennessee has a cost of living index of 89.5, which is below the US national average of 100. That means everyday expenses like housing, groceries, and transportation tend to run lower in Tennessee than in a typical US state.
How much would I need to earn in Tennessee?
Use the calculator above to enter your current state and salary — it multiplies your salary by the ratio of Tennessee's cost index to your current state's index to estimate the equivalent salary you'd need to maintain your standard of living.
Keep in mind that cost of living varies a lot within Tennessee itself — a major city will typically cost more than a smaller town. Treat this figure as an illustrative estimate, not an exact calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living index in Tennessee?
Tennessee's cost of living index is 89.5, where 100 represents the US national average. Use the calculator above to see what that means for your specific salary.
Is Tennessee expensive to live in?
Not particularly. At an index of 89.5, Tennessee runs below the national average, making it relatively affordable compared to most other states.
How much salary do I need to live in Tennessee?
It depends on where you're moving from. Enter your current state and salary in the calculator above — it estimates the equivalent salary you'd need in Tennessee to maintain the same standard of living, based on each state's relative cost index.
Does cost of living vary within Tennessee?
Yes, significantly. Major metro areas in Tennessee typically have much higher housing costs than smaller towns and rural areas in the same state. This calculator reflects a statewide average — research your specific city for a more accurate figure.
How does Tennessee's cost of living compare to other states?
Tennessee is on the more affordable end nationally, with a cost of living index below the 100 national average.
Does this calculator include taxes for Tennessee?
No, this calculator focuses on everyday living costs like housing and groceries, not state income or sales tax rates. Check Tennessee's specific tax rules separately for a fuller financial comparison.