If you don't mind a 15 minute or so commute, I would suggest the maryville or alcoa area. Uasally rent is a little cheaper here than some of the nicer parts of Knoxville. If you choose alcoa make sure it is not in the hall community( lots of drug problems).I live in Louisville, it is about 15 minutes from UT. You will pass louisville on your way to maryville and alcoa. I actaully work for a company that has me servicing fountain equipment for UT sports most of the year. We chose louisville to live for the easy commute to UT. If you mapquest Alcoa Hwy south of Knoxville you will find lousville. I myself would not want to live anywhere around campus. Just not the safest place to live in my opoinion. On campus somewhere might not be to bad. Good luck. If I can help in any other way jus let me know.