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The Ultimate Tennessee
Relocation Guide

Moving to Tennessee is one of the smartest lifestyle and financial decisions many Americans are making today. With no state income tax, affordable living, growing job markets, and diverse cities, Tennessee continues to attract families, retirees, remote workers, and investors from across the country.
Moving to Tennessee is a smart lifestyle and financial choice, offering no state income tax, affordable living, and growing job opportunities.
This Tennessee Relocation Guide helps you choose the right city and understand housing, jobs, schools, and everyday life.
This Tennessee Relocation Guide walks you through everything you need to know before you move — from choosing the right city to understanding housing, renting, jobs, schools, and daily life.

Why People Are Moving to Tennessee

People relocate to Tennessee for many reasons, but the most common include:
  • No state income tax in Tennessee
  • Lower cost of living than most U.S. states
  • Affordable housing and rentals
  • Strong job growth
  • Outdoor lifestyle (mountains, lakes, rivers)
  • Family-friendly communities
  • Central East Coast location
Tennessee offers a unique balance of affordability, opportunity, and quality of life.

Choosing the Right Area in Tennessee

East Tennessee

Cities: Knoxville, Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, Chattanooga
Best for:
  • Mountains and outdoor living
  • Lower housing costs
  • Healthcare and education jobs
  • Family-friendly communities

Middle Tennessee

Cities: Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro, Clarksville, Cookeville
Best for:
  • Job growth and business opportunities
  • Entertainment and culture
  • Suburban family living
  • Higher appreciation potential

West Tennessee

Cities: Memphis, Jackson
Best for:
  • Affordable housing
  • Strong rental markets
  • Cultural and historical influence

Housing Options in Tennessee

Buying a Home

Tennessee remains more affordable than most states, especially outside of Nashville.
  • Low property taxes
  • Wide range of home styles
  • Strong long-term value
Best for people planning to stay 3–5+ years.

Renting First (Very Common)

Renting first is extremely popular for relocators.

Benefits:

  • Learn neighborhoods
  • Avoid rushing a purchase
  • Flexibility during job or lifestyle changes

Rental options include:

  • Apartments
  • Single-family homes
  • Condos & townhomes
  • Short-term & furnished rentals Shape

Average Rental Cost in Tennessee

Compared to the national average, Tennessee is 8–15% more affordable, depending on location.

Rent

$ $900 - $2,600
  •  

Utilities

$ 200–$300
  •  

Gas

Below national average
  •  

Groceries

Moderate
  •  

Property taxes

Very low
  •  

Average Home Price Ranges in Tennessee

Entry-Level Homes

Price Range: $180,000 – $300,000
Typically includes:
  • Smaller single-family homes
  • Older homes or starter homes
  • Rural and small-city locations
Most common in East and West Tennessee.

Mid-Range Homes

Price Range: $300,000 – $500,000
Typically includes:
  • Suburban homes
  • Newer construction
  • Family-friendly neighborhoods
This is the most common price range statewide.

Luxury & High-End Homes

Price Range: $500,000 – $1,000,000+
Typically includes:
  • Custom homes
  • Larger lots
  • Desirable neighborhoods
  • Newer or upscale finishes
Most common in Middle Tennessee and select metro suburbs.

Home Price Ranges by Tennessee Region

East Tennessee

Typical Range: $200,000 – $450,000
Cities such as Knoxville, Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol offer strong affordability with access to outdoor recreation and healthcare.
  • Entry-level homes widely available
  • Moderate demand in growing cities
  • Popular with retirees and families

Middle Tennessee

Typical Range: $350,000 – $700,000+
Middle Tennessee is the most expensive region due to job growth and population demand.
  • Nashville, Franklin, and surrounding suburbs command higher prices
  • Competitive market in desirable areas
  • Strong new construction activity

West Tennessee

Typical Range: $180,000 – $400,000
West Tennessee remains one of the most affordable regions, especially outside of select Memphis neighborhoods.
  • Urban and suburban affordability
  • Popular with investors and first-time buyers
  • Stable long-term housing demand

Schools & Education

School quality varies by city and county.
Highly rated areas include:
  • Williamson County (Franklin)
  • Parts of Knoxville & Chattanooga
  • Kingsport & Johnson City school districts
Always research:
  • School ratings
  • District boundaries
  • Commute times

Jobs & Employment

Tennessee has strong job growth in:
  • Healthcare
  • Manufacturing
  • Logistics & distribution
  • Technology
  • Education
  • Music & entertainment (Nashville)
Major employers include:
  • HCA Healthcare
  • Amazon
  • FedEx
  • Nissan
  • Oak Ridge National Lab
Remote workers also benefit from lower living costs.

Transportation & Commuting

  • Most areas require a personal vehicle
  • Limited public transportation outside major cities
  • Shorter commutes than many metro areas
  • Minimal toll roads

Weather & Climate

Tennessee experiences:
  • Mild winters (light snow in most areas)
  • Hot, humid summers
  • Beautiful spring and fall seasons
Severe weather can occur, but most residents find it manageable.
Working with a local Knoxville realtor helps you:

Lifestyle & Community

Tennessee is known for:
  • Friendly communities
  • Outdoor recreation
  • Music and culture
  • Strong sense of local pride
From mountain towns to growing cities, Tennessee offers something for every lifestyle.

Working With Local Professionals

Relocating is easier when you work with:
  • Local realtors
  • Property managers
  • Lenders familiar with Tennessee laws
Many professionals help with both rentals and home purchases.

Moving to Tennessee Checklist

Before you move:
  • Research cities
  • Decide rent vs buy
  • Set a budget
  • Arrange utilities
  • Update licenses and registrations
  • Understand state taxes
Pro tip: Renting first simplifies relocation.
Read MORE

How WhyTennessee.com Helps You

WhyTennessee.com is built specifically for people moving to the state.

Compare Tennessee cities

Understand cost of living

Browse rentals and homes for sale

Learn pros & cons of each area

Learn pros & cons of each area

Compare Tennessee cities

Tennessee Realtors

Final Thoughts

Tennessee offers a rare combination of affordability, opportunity, and lifestyle. Whether you’re moving for work, family, retirement, or a fresh start, understanding your options ahead of time makes all the difference.

This guide is your starting point — and WhyTennessee.com is here to help every step of the way.