7 Most Affordable Knoxville Suburbs to Live In


Often called “The Marble City,” Knoxville, Tennessee is an iconic southern city. From iconic eats to the fantastic music scene, it’s not a surprise that roughly 188,000 people call this city home. If you’re moving to or living in Knoxville, know that the housing market is somewhat competitive. The median home sale price is $310,000, and the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Knoxville is about $1,397.

Don’t worry if those numbers don’t fit in your budget – we’ve got options to help you find a home or apartment that does. To help you find the right place to buy a home, we’ve gathered a list of the 7 best affordable Knoxville suburbs to check out. And they’re all less than 45 minutes away from the city. You’ll be close enough to explore all of Knoxville’s best activities without paying the price of city life.

#1: Harriman

Median home price: $214,500
Driving distance from Knoxville: 45 minutes
Harriman, TN homes for sale
Harriman, TN apartments for rent

Harriman, with a median home sale price of $214,500, is the most affordable Knoxville suburb on our list. About a 45-minute drive away from downtown Knoxville, Harriman is home to roughly 6,000 residents. Harriman is known for its history, its natural beauty, and its friendly people.

#2: Alcoa

Median home price: $228,500
Driving distance from Knoxville: 20 minutes
Alcoa, TN homes for sale
Alcoa, TN apartments for rent

Alcoa comes in as the second best affordable suburb in Knoxville. Just about 20 minutes from Knoxville, you can visit the Knoxville Zoo in no time. When living in this suburb of 10,000 people, check out the Alcoa Duck Pond, take a walk or bike ride on the Alcoa Greenway, or go hiking or camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

knoxville suburb aerial view

#3: Coalfield

Median home price: $248,000
Driving distance from Knoxville: 40 minutes
Coalfield, TN homes for sale
Coalfield, TN apartments for rent

Claiming the third spot is Coalfield. Just 40 minutes outside of Knoxville, you’ll…