Tennessee has become one of the top ten destinations Americans are moving to in the country, according to the study by U.S. News, and the reasons are straightforward. Some are chasing lower costs after years in an expensive metro. Some are remote workers who realized geography no longer ties them to a city they can’t afford. Some are retirees looking for a state that won’t tax their income. And some just want to live somewhere with a strong music scene, decent barbecue, a mountain range, and a backyard. Whatever it is pulling you here, this guide covers what life in Tennessee is like and the things you should know before making the move.
Things to Know before Moving to Tennessee
Lifestyle and Culture
Tennessee is a Southern state where culture leans conservative. Communities tend to be close-knit, and it’s the kind of place where people know their neighbors and show up for each other. If you are arriving from a large coastal city, it can take some adjustment, but hopefully it’s the welcome change you’ve been searching for.
Music is woven into the fabric of the state. Tennessee has given the world blues, rock ‘n’ roll, soul, and country. There are festivals throughout the year that draw serious music fans, and the local live music scene is part of weekend life in most cities.
Climate
Tennessee’s weather depends on where in the state you settle. The western side – Memphis and the Mississippi River lowlands – is flat, humid, and hot in summer. The eastern side, around Knoxville and the Appalachian foothills, is mountainous, wetter, and experiences actual winters.
For anyone fleeing snow, moving to Tennessee means no shoveling. Most of the state sees a handful of light snow days per year, and they tend to melt off fast. If you’re coming from the Upper Midwest or the Northeast, this might seal the deal.
Summer humidity is present, especially in the west. Long, sticky afternoons are part of the deal from June through August. But they are a small trade-off for the beautiful spring and fall you get to enjoy when moving to Tennessee.
Access to Nature
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park sits right inside the state’s eastern border. It’s one of the most visited national parks in the country, and unlike most, it costs nothing to enter. Hiking, fishing, whitewater, and fall foliage drives. It’s all there and easily accessible.
Tennessee is landlocked, which matters if the beach is part of your lifestyle. If it’s not part of your must-have list and something you’re willing to compromise on, there are options. The Gulf Coast and Southeast Atlantic shores are a 6-7 hour drive away. That’s too far for a day trip, but a long weekend getaway is doable if you are willing to make it work. Most people make peace with this if they are equally big on having access to mountains on their doorstep and enjoy the numerous lakes and rivers in Tennessee as an alternative.
Traffic
Due to its central location, Tennessee carries a lot of through-traffic. The state sits on major freight corridors, tourists pour in toward the national parks, and the metro areas have grown faster than the road networks that serve them. Nashville traffic, for example, is an issue, which doesn’t align with the slower pace of life people are seeking when moving to Tennessee. Where you end up living relative to where you work will make a big difference.
Cost of Living and Taxes
The biggest draw for those moving to Tennessee is financial relief. For someone coming from California or New York, the Volunteer State will give you financial breathing room. But the reputation of Tennessee being cheap is outdated. Nashville housing has climbed a lot, and other cities are following.
You’ll still come out ahead compared to most high-cost states, especially considering there is no state income tax. However, the state funds its zero income tax partly through sales tax, which is among the highest in the nation. The base state rate is 7%, and combined with county taxes, the total can exceed 9% depending on where you live. Run the math for your actual income and spending before assuming the tax picture is entirely favorable.
Here’s a tip: if you land near the Virginia or Georgia border, you can cross state lines for large purchases where the sales tax is lower. It sounds like a lot of effort, but for appliances, furniture or electronics, the savings are worth the drive.
Places to Move to in Tennessee
The state covers a lot of ground, geographically and culturally. It’s worth understanding the distinct character of some of Tennessee’s main cities before you decide to move.
Nashville
Nashville is Tennessee’s fastest-growing city. You’ll find a strong job market, a food and nightlife scene that punches well above its size; however, rising housing costs to match. Traffic is a real consideration. Overall, it’s great for professionals and families who want to live in a city where they can build momentum.
Franklin
Franklin is a charming city that has a small-town feel and has been rising in popularity. There is a quaint downtown, neighborhoods with all the amenities you can imagine, good schools, and rural living if that’s what you are looking for. Franklin is under an hour away from Nashville, near lakes and nature. But be aware that the demand is driving prices up, so finding a good deal on housing will take some research.
Memphis
Birthplace of the blues and rock ‘n’ roll, Memphis is more affordable than Nashville and has a rustic feel that some people love. The food, BBQ in particular, is hard to argue with.
Knoxville
Knoxville is a college town with growing appeal for outdoor-minded people. It’s the closest major city to the Smokies, has a more relaxed feel than Nashville, and is still relatively affordable. It’s a good option if nature access is near the top of your list.
Ready to Make the Move to Tennessee?
Does moving to Tennessee sound like the right fit for you? Whether you plan on heading to Nashville, the mountains, or somewhere in between, FastPAC Forwarding handles all the heavy lifting. Read our resources, and when you are ready, get a free quote. Our team will take the logistics off your plate, so you can get to the fun part where you settle in and explore your new home.
