If you’re eyeing a move to Tennessee, you’re on the right track, joining a growing crowd that’s finding their way to this gem of a place. With its robust job market and being the eighth most affordable state in the U.S., Tennessee is proving it’s more than just country music, Jack Daniels, and Gatlinburg.
In this guide, you will learn 10 surprising facts about making your move to Tennessee.
1. Uncover the Financial Perks of Tennessee's Tax Structure
In Tennessee, you don’t have to pay state income tax, which is a big plus. But, the state and local sales taxes can add up, with rates going as high as 9.75%. Living near the Tennessee-Virginia border, like in Bristol, means you can shop in Virginia where sales tax is lower, at just 5.3%, and still enjoy no income tax by living in Tennessee.
2. Traffic Tips for Newcomers: Avoiding the Rush and Enjoying the Ride
In big cities like Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and especially Nashville, rush hour traffic can be really bad, made worse by trucks passing through. But, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge take the cake for traffic jams during summer, fall, and holidays due to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park’s popularity.
However, in Northeast Tennessee, like Bristol, traffic is hardly a problem compared to bigger cities, offering a peaceful contrast.
3. Creative Ways to Satisfy Your Beach Cravings in Tennessee
If you love the beach and live in Tennessee, you’ll need to drive a few hours or take a flight to feel the sand between your toes. From Northeast Tennessee, popular beaches like Carolina, Wrightsville, and Myrtle Beach are about six hours away, making the journey feel like an adventure. Tennessee may be landlocked with lots of lakes, but ocean lovers can still reach the coast with a bit of travel.
4. Housing Market Insights: Opportunities Beyond the Boom
Tennessee’s housing market has changed, with prices rising significantly, especially around Nashville where they’ve jumped over 31% in one year. While Tennessee’s overall home price is still lower than the national average, making it a good value, areas like Nashville have become much pricier due to rapid growth and incoming investment.
However, looking beyond the hotspots, you can still find affordable homes in places like Johnson City and Bristol, showing the diverse housing landscape across the state.
5. Embracing Tennessee's Four Seasons: A Climate for Every Preference
Tennessee’s weather changes a lot depending on where you are. In the summer, it’s hot and sticky, but if you’re near the mountains, it feels nicer. There are some tornadoes, especially in the middle of the state, but they’re not everywhere. Snow isn’t too common, except in the mountains where it looks pretty. So, whether you like warm weather, cool nights, or a bit of snow, Tennessee has a spot for you.
6. Taxes: (Again?)
Tennessee has low taxes, including no income tax on earnings and lower property taxes compared to many places. While the sales tax is high, the overall tax burden is much less, especially when you compare it with states like California and New York, where property taxes are significantly higher.
This, along with affordable housing, makes Tennessee an attractive place to live, drawing people from states with higher taxes like Texas.
7. Affordable Adventures: Living Larger for Less
Tennessee is one of the most affordable places in the U.S., with the sixth lowest cost of living, thanks to lower taxes and affordable housing. Compared to New York and California, which are among the most expensive, living in Tennessee is about 11% cheaper than the national average. If you’re looking to stretch your dollar further, Tennessee could be a great choice.
8. Outdoor Excitement: From Hiking Trails to Music Festivals
Tennessee is an outdoor paradise, offering everything from boating, swimming, and fishing to hiking on some of the best trails in the country. Whether you’re into winter sports or prefer the tranquility of nature walks, you’ll find it all within a short drive in most parts of the state.
Plus, with the Great Smoky Mountain National Park being the most visited in the U.S., there’s no shortage of adventure and natural beauty to discover.
9. A Melody for Every Soul: Where Music Lovers Find Their Heaven on Earth
Tennessee is a paradise for music lovers, with Nashville known as Music City for its vibrant live music scene and Memphis celebrated as the home of blues and rock ‘n’ roll. Alongside historical sites like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame, the state hosts numerous music festivals, including the famous Bonnaroo. No matter where you are in Tennessee, from Bristol to small local venues, you’ll find a rich musical heritage waiting to be explored.
10. Discover Tennessee's Warm Welcome: Find Out Why Tennessee's People Are Its True Charm
Tennessee’s people are truly its greatest treasure, known for their genuine kindness and welcoming nature, especially in smaller towns with that cozy community feel. Expect to experience folks waving, holding doors open, and always ready to greet you.
If you’re moving from another part of the country, don’t worry—you’ll quickly feel at home among the welcoming residents who make it easy to become part of their community.
Conclusion
Moving to Tennessee offers more than just a change of scenery; it’s an invitation to become part of a community where kindness and warmth are the norm, and the lack of state income tax makes it financially appealing. Despite the hustle and bustle of city traffic and the distance from the beach, the state’s diverse landscape provides plenty of outdoor activities and a vibrant music scene that caters to all. Whether it’s the welcoming people, affordable living, or the natural and cultural richness, Tennessee has something special to offer anyone who decides to call it home.
