Affordable & Income-Based Housing in Knoxville

Affordability in Knoxville, TN

Knoxville's median household income is $54,039 and the median gross rent is $1,191 per month, meaning many renters face a tight gap between earnings and housing costs (Census ACS 5-Year, 2024). With 53% of households renting, affordable and income-based options play an important role in the local housing market (Census ACS 5-Year, 2024).

Safety

According to FBI Crime Data Explorer, the Knoxville Police Department reported a violent crime rate of 743 per 100,000 residents in 2024. Keep in mind that crime rates are not directly comparable across cities due to differences in reporting practices and jurisdiction boundaries.

Getting Around Knoxville

The scores below reflect walkability, transit access, and bikeability in the areas around Knoxville's assisted properties, according to Walk Score.

• Walk Score: 64 - Somewhat Walkable. Some errands can be completed on foot.
• Transit Score: 41 - Some Transit. A limited number of transit options are available.
• Bike Score: 82. Biking is a strong option in many parts of the city.

Schools

Knoxville is served by 89 public schools across 3 districts -- including 54 elementary, 16 middle, and 19 high schools -- according to the NCES Common Core of Data. Ratings vary by school and district, so renters should check the assigned schools for a specific address before making a decision.

Housing Costs in Knoxville

The median household income in Knoxville is $54,039 per year, according to Census ACS 5-Year data. The median market rent is $1,191 per month, according to the same source.

For renters who qualify, the 6,585 income-restricted units across Knoxville's 57 HUD-assisted and LIHTC properties can offer significant savings compared to market-rate housing. Eligibility and rent amounts are typically tied to a percentage of the area median income.

• Median household income: $54,039/year (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Median market rent: $1,191/month (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Renter households: 53% of occupied units (Census ACS 5-Year)

Flood and Environmental Exposure

All 57 affordable housing properties in Knoxville were mapped for flood risk. None are located in a high-risk flood zone, according to flood zone data.