Considering moving to Tennessee? This state is full of picturesque landscapes, dynamic urban areas, and a growing tech industry, making it a prime choice for relocation. With its iconic cities, scenic mountain views, and a rich cultural scene, Tennessee offers a diverse living experience. Whether you’re looking at houses for sale in Knoxville, renting in Chattanooga, or exploring houses for rent in Nashville, here’s what you should know about moving to Tennessee.
Tennessee at a glance
The state’s landscapes range from the majestic peaks of the Smoky Mountains to the serene rolling hills of the Cumberland Plateau, providing a variety of outdoor activities. Large cities like Memphis and Nashville are cultural hubs, renowned for their lively music scenes, history, and entertainment options. Major sectors driving Tennessee’s economy include energy, technology, and healthcare, with prominent companies such as FedEx and HCA Healthcare headquartered here.
Culturally, Tennessee is rich with world-class museums like the Country Music Hall of Fame and the National Civil Rights Museum, alongside notable music festivals such as Bonnaroo and Memphis in May. The state’s culinary scene is equally diverse, featuring everything from Memphis barbecue to Nashville hot chicken. Educational opportunities are robust with institutions like the University of Tennessee and Vanderbilt University adding to the state’s atmosphere. For those seeking affordable places to live, cities like Clarksville and Johnson City offer lower living costs while maintaining a high quality of life.
1. Tennessee has a significant musical heritage
Tennessee’s musical heritage is renowned worldwide, with Nashville earning the nickname “Music City” for its pivotal role in country music. The Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Country Music Hall of Fame attract music lovers from across the globe. Memphis also has a rich musical history, being the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll at Sun Studio and home to the legendary Beale Street, where blues musicians like B.B. King and Elvis Presley once performed. Additionally, cities like Bristol, recognized as the birthplace of country music, and Dollywood in Pigeon Forge celebrate the state’s deep musical roots through festivals and performances that honor Tennessee’s enduring influence on American music.
2. The state has a low cost of living
Tennessee’s lower cost of living is a major draw, with the median home sale price of $400,900 and average rental prices for a one-bedroom apartment in cities like Memphis hovering around $978 per month. While Nashville and Knoxville offer more urban amenities, cities like Chattanooga and Clarksville provide more affordable housing options without sacrificing quality of life. In fact, the cost of living in Chattanooga is 9% lower than the cost of living in Nashville. Beyond housing, Tennessee residents benefit from lower costs in utilities, groceries, and healthcare compared to the national average. This overall affordability makes Tennessee an attractive choice for those looking to maximize their budget without compromising on lifestyle.
3. Hot chicken is a local delicacy
Nashville hot chicken is a fiery local delicacy that has gained nationwide fame. This spicy fried chicken, typically served with pickles and bread, originated at Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack in Nashville. Today, you can savor this culinary treat at numerous local eateries, including Hattie B’s and Bolton’s Spicy Chicken & Fish, each offering their own unique twist on the dish.
Insider scoop: For a truly local experience, visit during the Nashville Hot Chicken Festival held every Fourth of July, where you can sample the best hot chicken from various vendors and enjoy live music and various activities.
4. There’s no state income tax
One of the financial perks of moving to Tennessee is the absence of state income tax, allowing residents to keep more of their earnings. This policy makes Tennessee particularly attractive to individuals seeking lower overall tax burdens. The savings on state income tax can be significant, especially compared to neighboring states with higher tax rates. For budget-friendly individuals, this means more disposable income for everyday expenses, savings, or investments, enhancing their overall financial well-being. Considering the pros and cons of living in Tennessee, this tax advantage is a notable benefit that can positively impact your financial planning.
5. The state is known for its Tennessee whiskey
Tennessee is renowned for its Tennessee whiskey, a distinct style of whiskey that follows a specific production process unique to the state. This includes the Lincoln County Process, where the whiskey is filtered through charcoal before aging, giving it a smooth, mellow flavor. The most famous brand is Jack Daniel’s, whose distillery in Lynchburg is one of the oldest registered distilleries in the United States. This iconic site offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the whiskey-making process and the history of Jack Daniel’s, ending with a tasting of their renowned products.
Travel tip: Plan your visit to the distillery during the annual Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational Barbecue in October, a festival that combines delicious barbecue, live music, and, of course, plenty of Tennessee whiskey.
6. The internet is fast in Chattanooga
Tennessee has some of the fastest internet speeds in the country, thanks to initiatives like Chattanooga’s EPB Fiber Optics network. This gigabit-speed internet service has positioned Chattanooga as a tech-friendly city, attracting startups and tech companies. Whether you’re working from home or streaming your favorite shows, you’ll appreciate the robust and reliable internet connectivity.
7. Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the U.S.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, is the most visited national park in the U.S., attracting millions of visitors each year. This expansive park features over 800 miles of hiking trails, including the challenging Alum Cave Trail and the scenic Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the park. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, from lush hardwood forests to rolling mountain meadows, and observe a wide range of wildlife such as black bears, elk, and deer. The park also boasts historic sites like Cades Cove, where preserved log cabins and barns offer a glimpse into early Appalachian life.
Travel tip: For a less crowded experience, visit during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, when the park’s natural beauty is at its peak and parking is more accessible, allowing for a more serene exploration of the trails and overlooks.
8. There’s a theme park dedicated to Dolly Parton here
Dollywood, located in Pigeon Forge, is a popular theme park founded by country music legend Dolly Parton. The park offers a mix of thrilling rides, live entertainment, and traditional crafts, all set against the backdrop of the Smoky Mountains. Dollywood also hosts seasonal festivals and events, making it a year-round destination for fun.
Insider scoop: To make the most of your visit, arrive early and head straight to the most popular attractions like the Lightning Rod roller coaster and the Wild Eagle flight ride before the lines get long.
9. The BBQ in Tennessee is distinctive
Moving to Tennessee, you’ll become familiar to its distinctive barbecue, with Memphis standing out as a premier destination for this culinary tradition. Memphis-style BBQ is characterized by its dry-rubbed ribs, which are seasoned with a blend of spices before being slow-cooked to perfection, and pulled pork, which is often served with a tangy, tomato-based sauce known for its unique sweet and spicy flavor. Notable BBQ joints include Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous, known for its iconic dry-rubbed ribs and secret seasoning blend; and Interstate Bar-B-Q, which offers a variety of smoked meats.
10. The state is filled with Civil Rights history
Tennessee is deeply embedded in Civil Rights history, with several key locations marking pivotal moments in the struggle for racial equality. In Memphis, the National Civil Rights Museum is housed in the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968, offering comprehensive exhibits. In Nashville, the historic Fisk University is renowned for its role in early civil rights activism, and the city was a center of the 1960s sit-in movement. These sites, among others, provide insight into the state’s significant tie with the movement.
11. You’ll need to prepare for the tornados
Tennessee’s location in the southeastern United States means it is susceptible to tornadoes, especially during the spring and fall seasons. The state’s flat terrain and warm, moist air make it a frequent target for tornado activity. It’s crucial for residents to have emergency plans, including knowing local shelter locations and having a weather radio for alerts. Many homes are equipped with storm shelters or safe rooms to offer protection during severe weather events. Communities often have tornado sirens and conduct regular drills to prepare residents for potential emergencies.
Methodology
Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau, while median home sale prices, average monthly rent, and data on affordable and largest cities are sourced from Redfin.
Source: rent.com