Wood Deck costs $24.28 to $48.55 per sq ft in Knoxville in 2026. For a 400 sq ft project, expect $9,711 – $19,422 installed, typically near $14,566. That is about 3% above the Tennessee state average.
Knoxville wood deck cost calculator
Planning estimate only. State pricing applies a construction wage index to the labor share; materials are held at national prices. Get three written quotes before committing.
Why Knoxville costs more than the rest of Tennessee
Knoxville carries roughly a 3% premium over the Tennessee statewide figure. Three things drive that gap. Metro wages run above the state average, and labor is about 52% of this bill. Permitting and inspection are slower and more expensive inside city limits. And site access is tighter, which means smaller equipment, more hand work, and sometimes street permits for deliveries.
Statewide, Tennessee averages $23.57 to $47.14 per sq ft, against $24.28 to $48.55 inside Knoxville. Suburbs on the metro fringe usually fall between the two.
Wood Deck cost by project size in Knoxville
| Project size | Knoxville range | Typical |
|---|---|---|
| 10×10 (100 sq ft) | $2,428 – $4,855 | $3,642 |
| 12×12 (144 sq ft) | $3,496 – $6,992 | $5,244 |
| 12×16 (192 sq ft) | $4,661 – $9,322 | $6,992 |
| 12×20 (240 sq ft) | $5,827 – $11,653 | $8,740 |
| 16×20 (320 sq ft) | $7,769 – $15,537 | $11,653 |
| 20×20 (400 sq ft) | $9,711 – $19,422 | $14,566 |
Knoxville compared with other Tennessee markets
| Area | Cost per sq ft | vs Knoxville |
|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $26.40 – $52.80 | +9% |
| Memphis | $24.51 – $49.03 | +1% |
| Tennessee average | $23.57 – $47.14 | −3% |
Ground conditions and code in Knoxville
Permits in Knoxville
A residential permit for this work typically runs around $350 in Tennessee, and metro jurisdictions like Knoxville usually sit at the upper end of that range with longer review times. Permit cost is rarely included in a contractor quote, so add it separately. Confirm scope with the Knoxville building department before work begins.
Hiring in Knoxville
Get three written, itemised quotes from licensed and insured contractors, and make sure each specifies the same dimensions and the same grade of material. In a metro market, the cheapest bid often reflects a thinner specification or a crew travelling in from outside the area rather than a genuine saving. Ask for local references and check that the licence is current in Tennessee.
Frequently asked questions
How much does wood deck cost in Knoxville?
In 2026, wood deck costs $24.28 to $48.55 per sq ft in Knoxville. For a 400 sq ft project, the installed total typically lands between $9,711 and $19,422.
Is Knoxville more expensive than the rest of Tennessee?
Yes. Knoxville runs about 3% above the Tennessee statewide average, driven by metro wage levels, permitting, and tighter site access.
Do I need a permit in Knoxville?
Most work of this type and value requires a permit. Budget around $350 and allow extra time for review, since metro jurisdictions are typically slower than rural ones.
How do I compare quotes in Knoxville?
Insist on three written, itemised quotes covering identical dimensions, materials, and scope of preparation. A bid far below the others usually signals a reduced specification rather than better value.
Nearby markets
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