Urban Planner Salary in Knoxville, Tennessee
The median urban planner salary in Knoxville, TN is $69,995 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.
Urban Planner Pay in Knoxville: What to Expect (2026)
Knoxville offers a median urban planner salary of $69,995, which is $796 below the Tennessee state average of $70,791. Compared to the national median of $79,540, Knoxville pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Knoxville's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $69,995 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $79,540 in an average-cost city. This makes Knoxville an attractive option for urban planners seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for urban planners in Knoxville spans from $44,000 at the 10th percentile to $107,360 at the 90th percentile — a $63,360 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $45,760, while senior urban planners with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $103,840. With a population of 190,740, Knoxville is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Urban Planner Salary in Knoxville by Experience
In Knoxville, an entry-level urban planner earns around $45,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $103,840 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Knoxville, TN
| Percentile | Knoxville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $44,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $55,440 |
| Median (50th) | $69,995 |
| 75th Percentile | $88,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $107,360 |
Urban Planner Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Urban Planner in Knoxville
Education
Most urban planner positions require a master's degree. Knoxville and the surrounding Tennessee area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, urban planner employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Knoxville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Urban Planner Jobs in Knoxville
Browse open urban planner positions in Knoxville, TN: