Is Maryville more expensive than Knoxville?

Generally, yes. While the overall cost of living is similar, Maryville's housing prices can be 5-7% higher than Knoxville's for equivalent properties, largely driven by the high demand for the Maryville City School district.

Which city has better schools: Maryville or Knoxville?

Maryville City Schools are consistently ranked in the top 5% in Tennessee. While Knoxville (Knox County) has some exceptional schools like Farragut and Bearden, the overall average of the Maryville system tends to be higher.

How far is the commute between Maryville and Knoxville?

The commute between Maryville and Downtown Knoxville is typically 20-25 minutes via Alcoa Highway (US-129) or Pellissippi Parkway (TN-162), though rush hour can extend this to 40 minutes.

Is Maryville safe for families?

Yes, Maryville is exceptionally safe, with crime rates roughly half the national average and a strong community-focused atmosphere.

Maryville vs. Knoxville, TN

The Ultimate East Tennessee Showdown: Small-Town Charm or Urban Energy?

Updated: January 5, 202615 Min Read

Maryville at a Glance

Population: ~33,000
Best for: Families & High-end Schools
Vibe: Peaceful, community-oriented
Highlight: Gateway to the Smokies

Knoxville at a Glance

Population: ~190,000 (City)
Best for: Jobs, Nightlife & Diversity
Vibe: Vibrant, collegiate, progressive
Highlight: Market Square & UT Knoxville

The Deep Dive: 5 Key Factors

1. Education & School Systems

This is often the #1 reason families choose Maryville. The Maryville City School District is consistently designated as "Exemplary" and ranks in the top 5% of districts in Tennessee.

Maryville Advantage

Small, concentrated district. Walkable schools. Exceptional parent involvement and high graduation rates (95%+).

Knoxville Advantage

Breadth and specialization. From L&N STEM Academy to top-tier sports at Farragut and Bearden, choice is the key here.

2. Cost of Living & Housing

Both cities enjoy Tennessee's lack of state income tax, but your housing dollar stretches differently.

Metric	Maryville	Knoxville
Median Home Price	$420k - $450k	$360k - $400k
Property Tax	City + County	City + County
Value Trend	Slower, stable gain	Rapid appreciation

Note: Maryville City houses often carry a premium due to the school system demand.

3. Lifestyle & Vibe

Knoxville is the cultural heart of the region. Market Square, Gay Street, and the Old City offer world-class dining, theater at the Tennessee Theatre, and a buzzing collegiate energy from the University of Tennessee.

Maryville offers a retreat. The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway provides miles of safe walking paths, and the foothills of the Smokies are literally 15 minutes away. It is quieter, safer, and more predictable.

4. Commute & Traffic

Maryville residents have the advantage of being "Airport Adjacent." McGhee Tyson Airport is technically in Alcoa/Maryville, making travel effortless for residents.

However, the commute to Knoxville for work (typically 25 mins) has become more congested as Pellissippi Parkway and Alcoa Highway handle increasing volume.

The Final Verdict

Choose Maryville if...

Education is your absolute top priority.
You want a safe, quiet suburb for your family.
You frequent the Great Smoky Mountains.
You travel often and want to be near the airport.

Choose Knoxville if...

You want to be in the middle of the action.
You desire a shorter commute to major employers.
You love nightlife, festivals, and collegiate sports.
You prefer urban walkability (Downtown/North Knox).

Need a Local Perspective?

As someone who has lived and worked in both Maryville and Knoxville, I can give you the unfiltered truth about each neighborhood, school zone, and hidden pocket.

Speak with Tracy