Get A Free Moving Quote
  • All Fields Are Required

  • This field is hidden when viewing the form
Rolling hills and mountains in Tennessee.

Explore Living in Tennessee 🍁 With Our Moving to Living in Tennessee

Last Updated On: 1st June 2026, 03:25 pm

The Volunteer State is pretty, affordable, and offers countless unique cities to consider. Living in Tennessee provides a strong sense of community and natural beauty. From being named among the friendliest states in the US and hosting over 2.4 million acres of untouched public land, it’s no wonder people are moving to Tennessee in droves—TN gained 203,156 new residents in 2023 alone! 

Before we get into the pros and cons of living in Tennessee, let’s touch on how this incredible state has changed since its founding in the 1700s. Tennessee became the 16th U.S. state on June 1st, 1796. It was originally home to Native American tribes like the Cherokee, but Europeans settled it in the 18th century. The state was part of the Confederacy and supplied troops to the Union. After the war, it underwent Reconstruction and industrial growth. 

In the 20th century, Tennessee became known for its contributions to music (especially country, blues, and rock) and was central to the Civil Rights Movement.

Table of Contents

Is Tennessee a Good Place to Live? 

Tennessee can be a great place to live for those seeking affordability, scenic beauty, and a strong cultural identity. The state offers no income tax, a low cost of living, and access to outdoor recreation. However, it also faces challenges like high crime rates, limited public transit, and healthcare concerns. 

Summers can be hot and humid, and some areas are experiencing growing pains. Whether Tennessee is a good fit depends on your priorities and lifestyle preferences.

What Is Tennessee Known for? 

There are a few things to know before moving to Tennessee, and what it’s known for is one of them! 

Tennessee is best known for its rich music legacy, especially in Nashville and Memphis, where country, blues, and rocknroll took root. The state is also famous for its natural beauty, home to the Great Smoky Mountains, and its iconic foods like Nashville hot chicken and Memphis barbecue. Tennessee’s history, whiskey distilleries like Jack Daniel’s, and vibrant cultural traditions make it a standout in the South.

Where Is Tennessee? 

Tennessee is located in the southeastern region of the US and is bordered by North Carolina, Kentucky, Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and a small section of South Carolina. 

Where is Tennessee on the map?

Public Transportation in Tennessee

Transportation in Tennessee is robust statewide, but specifically in its major areas, Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga.

Amtrak has a route operating through Tennessee, and WeGo has a commuter rail for Nashville residents. 

How Many Airports Are in Tennessee? 

You may be flying into Big Bend State after moving to Tennessee. There are 343 airports in Tennessee, with two (MNM and BNB) being international and five being classified as major.

How Many People Live in Tennessee? 

Per the 2020 census, the population of Tennessee is 6,910,840, with a population density of 71.0 people per square mile. Tennessee is the 15th-most populated state in the country, with a population increase of 4.6% from 2010 to 2020. The most people moving to Tennessee was between 2019 and 2020, when the state saw a 1.4% increase.

Tennessee Demographics

The state of Tennessee demographics are becoming increasingly more diverse, ranking 27th most diverse compared to all other US states, which is much higher than its past rankings. Its major cities are the main contributors to its increased racial and ethnic diversity. The Hispanic or Latino population in Tennessee has increased the most of all other racial and ethnic groups—1.8% from 2010 to 2021. 

  • Sex ratio: 51 females to 49 males
  • Median age: 39.1
  • Median household income: $67,097 (US median is $78,538)
  • Educational attainment 
    • High school graduates: 90.1%
    • Bachelor’s degrees or higher: 31.7%
  • Foreign-born population: 6.1$

Tennessee’s racial and ethnic composition, broken down:

  • White alone: 78.4%
  • Black alone: 16.5%
  • American Indian and Alaska Native alone: 0.6%
  • Asian alone: 2.1%
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone: 0.1%
  • Two or More Races: 2.3%
  • Hispanic or Latino (of any race): 7.5%
  • White alone, not Hispanic or Latino: 72.0%

Famous People Living in Tennessee​

Tennessee has a notable celebrity population, specifically in the country music genre. Dolly Parton, Justin Timberlake, Taylor Swift, Jack White, Bill Belichick, Amy Grant, Kacy Musgraves, Tim McGraw, Martina McBride, and Billy Ray Cyrus all have residences in Tennessee.  

What Are The Largest Cities in Tennessee?

There are 340 municipalities within Tennessee, many of which are small, rural communities. If you’re interested in living in Tennessee but want to experience big-city living, the following Tennessee cities are for you.

Tennessee Cities by Population

  • Nashville 687,150
  • Memphis 613,110
  • Knoxville 200,400
  • Chattanooga 188,850
  • Clarksville 185,118
  • Murfreesboro 169,321
  • Franklin 90,026
  • Johnson City 74,075
  • Jackson 68,285
  • Hendersonville 64,117

Cities in Tennessee Map

What Are the Best Cities To Live In Tennessee?

Are you looking for the best city in Tennessee? Whether you’re a growing family, an eager business exec, or a senior looking for the best places to retire in Tennessee, you will surely find something to meet all your needs in the lovely state of Tennessee. 

Is Tennessee a Good Place to Retire? 

Looking for the best cities to retire in Tennessee? One of the many benefits of living in Tennessee is that it’s a great place to spend your golden years. 

Top choices include Chattanooga for its scenic riverfront and blend of nature and city life, Brentwood for its safety and high quality of life, and Maryville for its affordability and access to the Smoky Mountains. Sevierville also stands out with senior-friendly tax benefits and abundant outdoor recreation. Each city offers unique perks for retirees depending on lifestyle and budget.

Is Tennessee a Good Place to Raise a Family?

Tennessee can be a good place to raise a family, especially in areas with strong schools and low crime. The state offers a lower-than-average cost of living, provides 250,000 acres of land dedicated to state parks, hosts the most-visited national park in the country (Great Smoky National Park), and has 12 family-centric amusement parks and attractions. 

One of the major advantages of living in Tennessee is the warm sense of community that cities like Brentwood and Franklin provide, making them two of the best places to live in Tennessee for families. While some regions face challenges like higher crime rates or allergy issues, many families are drawn to Tennessee’s affordability, cities with low crime, and family-friendly restaurants.

Best Cities to Live in Tennessee for Young Adults

Young adults thinking of living in Tennessee are attracted to cities like Nashville, Chattanooga, Paris, and Cookeville. 

The best cities in Tennessee for young adults include Nashville, Chattanooga, Knoxville, Cookeville, and Murfreesboro. Nashville stands out for its healthy job market, nightlife, unique neighborhoods, and vibrant culture. Chattanooga offers affordable housing and outdoor access, while Knoxville blends a college-town vibe with career prospects. 

Smaller towns like Cookeville and Murfreesboro appeal with lower costs of living and growing communities, ideal for those seeking an affordable lifestyle.

Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in Tennessee?

The cheapest city in Tennessee to live in is Memphis; its Cost of Living Index (COLI) is 10% below the US average, and housing costs are exceptionally low ($180,000 median sale price). 

Other cities that are among the cheapest places to live in Tennessee include LaFollette, a small town known for low rent prices, and La Vergne and Smyrna—affordable Nashville suburbs offering lower living expenses with access to big-city amenities.

There are many desirable areas to live in Tennessee, but finding your dream city starts with research and knowing exactly what you want and your budget. 

What Is the Cost of Living in Tennessee? 

Can I afford to move to TN? The cost of living in Tennessee is lower than the national average, with most expenses being about 10–15% cheaper. The state’s cost of living index is 90.5 (with 100 as the national average). Overall, Tennessee offers an affordable lifestyle, especially with no state income tax and low property taxes in many areas.

Here are some significant factors that affect the Tennessee cost of living. The average monthly utility bill for people living in Tennessee is $125 (per Doxo). The living wage in Tennessee for one adult with no children is $21.99; for a family of four (with both adults working) it’s $24.12. 

According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), TN’s Real Personal Consumer Expenditure is 1.6, one of the country’s lowest. The BEA also provides Regional Price Parities; RPP is a metric published by the BEA that measures the differences in price levels across U.S. states and metropolitan areas for a given year. 

In short, RPPs tell you how much more or less it costs to live in one area compared to the national average, accounting for rent, goods, and services. Tennessee’s RPP is 91.8, compared to the US average of 100. 

Cost of Living Index in Major Tennessee Cities

Taxes in Tennessee

Tennessee has an effective property tax of 0.58%, with the county and city you live in significantly affecting your final property tax bill. The median property tax bill in Davidson County is $1,967.

The general sales tax in Tennessee is 7%, with cities like Nashville, Memphis, Jackson, and Clarksville implementing their own local sales tax, increasing the tax rate to 9.75%. 

Other Tennessee Living Expenses

Is Tennessee Cheaper Than Florida?

Florida’s Cost of Living Index is 98, which is 8.5% higher than Tennessee’s.

Is Tennessee Cheaper Than Texas?

When considering living in Tennessee VS Texas, you’ll see that TN is the cheaper state. The Cost of Living Index in Texas is 92.7, which is 2.2% higher than Tennessee’s

Tennessee is cheaper than Florida and Texas. 

Tennessee Real Estate Market

The Tennessee housing market is considered competitive, with the housing market in Chattanooga set to heat up, and growth is steady in East Tennessee. Although you may pay slightly more for your Tennessee home than you would have in the past, your return on investment will likely be greater. 

What Is the Average Rent in Tennessee?

The average rent in Tennessee is $1,513 for a 946 square foot rental, meaning it’s cheaper to buy in most parts of Tennessee than rent. TN is ranked #29 in rental affordability, making it a less affordable state to rent. If you earned the state minimum wage ($7.25 an hour), you’d have to work 112 hours a week to afford a small one-bedroom rental. 

What Is the Average Home Price in Tennessee?

The average home price in Tennessee is $380,200 (a 3.2% year-over-year increase). The most affordable houses are in Memphis, and the highest median home prices are in Nashville’s richest neighborhoods like Leiper’s Fork, Franklin, and Belle Meade. The median home price in Nashville is $470,200, compared to Memphis’s $180.000.

What Is the Weather Like in Tennessee? – Climate, Average Temperatures, & More

Tennessee’s climate is primarily classified as humid subtropical (Köppen Cfa); you will experience warm summers and cool winters when living in Tennessee. However, the state does have a diverse topography, including the Appalachian Mountains in the east, which leads to variations in climate across different regions. 

What Is the Average Temperature in Tennessee? 

Average temperatures vary across the state due to differences in elevation and location. We’ll examine the state’s major cities to give you a good idea of what to expect when living in Tennessee.

City July Average Temp January Average Temp

  • Nashville Weather 94 Degrees Fahrenheit 34 Degrees Fahrenheit
  • Memphis Weather 99 Degrees Fahrenheit  48 Degrees Fahrenheit
  • Knoxville Weather 90 Degrees Fahrenheit 27 Degrees Fahrenheit

Another one of the benefits of living in Tennessee is that Tennessee experiences four distinct seasons:

  • Spring provides mild temperatures with increased rainfall and the potential for severe thunderstorms as a trade-off.
  • Summers in Tennessee are hot and humid; temperatures are typically in the the upper 80s to low 90s°F.
  • Fall is the prime time to visit Tennessee as the temperatures are cool and the humidity is low, making it one of the most pleasant seasons.
  • Winter is generally mild, though occasional cold snaps and snowfall occur, especially in the east.

Things to Do in Tennessee

Relocating to Tennessee is exciting; there are tons of attractions to see, a world-famous state park, and quaint towns galore. Below, we explore the most fun things to do in Tennessee. 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Gatlinburg 

Great Smoky National Park is the most visited national park in the nation and hosts 

522,427 acres of rural land to explore. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or horseback riding, visiting the Great Smoky Mountains is one of the best things to do in Tennessee with kids​. 

Tennessee Aquarium – Chattanooga

With more than 800 species living within the Tennessee Aquarium, it’s large enough to make it an all-day activity. If you have little ones or have a deep interest in aquatic life, this is one of the best things to do in Tennessee.​

Graceland – Memphis

Explore the historic Graceland, Elvis Presley’s old abode! This famous estate features unique music memorabilia, a car museum, two jets on the property, and extensive tours of the entire mansion. 

Grand Ole Opry – Nashville

Nashville is famous for its roots in the music industry, so it’s no wonder it hosts the Grand Ole Opry, a notable theatre where the country’s top musicians perform. If you’re looking for things to see and do in Tennessee, consider catching a show at the Opry. ​

The Lost Sea Adventure – Sweetwater

One of the top things to do outdoors in Tennessee is to take a lost sea adventure, a family-friendly attraction that takes you through a series of caves and an underground lake via a boat tour. 

Ruby Falls – Chattanooga

Ruby Falls is an expensive underground waterfall within a limestone cavern located in LookOut Mountain. It’s family-friendly, making it a great activity for kids!

TITANIC Museum Attraction – Pigeon Forge

If you’re a history buff, visiting the Titanic museum is a must-do when living in Tennessee. It’s great for couples and anyone with older children who would find its exhibits interesting. 

The Parthenon – Nashville  

Another great museum in Tennessee is The Parthenon, which has a mission to connect residents, young or old, to art, architecture, and history.

Parrot Mountain and Gardens – Pigeon Forge

Parrot Mountain and Gardens is a garden and parrot preserve hosting hundreds of parrots and thousands of plant species. It’s one of the most fun things to do in Tennessee for families, especially if you’re interested in nature. 

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage – Jackson

This historic museum explores the home and estate of the 7th president, Andrew Jackson. There are various educational activities to partake in and exhibits to explore. 

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere – Nashville

The Nashville Zoo is home to more than 3,700 animals, countless flora, and hundreds of other plant species. The zoo attracks more than 1 million visitors a year, making it a must-see attraction when living in Tennessee. 

Fall Creek Falls State Park – Spencer

Fall Creek Falls is one of the 56 state parks in Tennessee. It hosts 30 miles of hiking trails, camping, a nature learning center, a restaurant, a resort park, a golf course, and an eatery. There is plenty to do for a whole weekend of fun for the whole family. 

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum – Nashville

Of course, our moving to Tennessee guide would include the Country Music Hall of Fame Museum. You can experience your new home’s musical roots when exploring one of the best museums in Nashville

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum – Chattanooga

Yet another notable Tennessee museum is the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museu, located in Chattanooga. You can experience the region’s rich history in the locomotive industry during this unique educational activity. 

Dollywood – Chattanooga

Looking for family things to do in Tennessee? Dollywood is the place to be! Being over 40 years old, hosting 50 rides, and spanning 165 acres, Dollywood has countless activities to explore and is a must-do once you’re living in Tennessee. 

National Civil Rights Museum

One of the best things about living in Tennessee is its robust activities. There are 126 museums in TN, and the National Civil Rights Museum is one of the most notable. It’s located at Martin Luther King Junior’s assassination site and hosts civil rights exhibits. 

Tennessee Sports Teams

Tennessee boasts a vibrant sports culture, with professional franchises, notable college athletics, and marquee sporting events. Sports are deeply woven into the state’s identity, from the bustling arenas in Nashville and Memphis to lively college towns.

Tennessee Professional Sports Teams – Does Tennessee Have an NFL Team?

  • Tennessee Titans (NFL) – Based in Nashville, the Titans play at Nissan Stadium.
  • Memphis Grizzlies (NBA) – The state’s sole NBA team, the Grizzlies, moved from Vancouver to Memphis in 2001.
  • Nashville Predators (NHL) – Joining the NHL in 1998 and playing at the Bridgestone Arena, the Predators have cultivated a passionate fan base. 
  • Nashville SC (MLS) – Nashville SC competes in Major League Soccer and hosts matches at GEODIS Park.

There are also many notable sporting events held in Tennessee annually: 

  • MLB Speedway Classic
  • NASCAR at Bristol Motor Speedway
  • Music City Bowl

The Speedway Classic is when they transform the Bristol Motor Speedway into a baseball field for a game between the Reds and Braves. NASCAR at Bristol Motor Speedway hosts 90,000 attendees annually. The Music City Bowl is a college football game between SEC and Big Ten teams. 

Is Tennessee Safe?

Although parts of Tennessee have a bad reputation for being unsafe, there are still many safe cities to consider. US News has ranked Tennessee #42 in overall crime and safety. There were 15,129 violent crimes reported in Tennessee in 2022. 

What Is the Crime Rate in Tennessee?

Tennessee has a crime rate of 2,924, which is above the US average of 2,324. 

What Are the Safest Cities in Tennessee?

If living in Tennessee is still your dream, but you have safety concerns, consider living in the following cities, which are ranked among the safest in the state. 

  • Signal Mountain – 317 crime rate per 100,000 people
  • Oakland – 330 crime rate per 100,000 people
  • Nolensville – 418 crime rate per 100,000 people
  • Loudon – 509 crime rate per 100,000 people
  • Church Hill – 647 crime rate per 100,000 people
  • Atoka – 686 crime rate per 100,000 people
  • Fairview – 691 crime rate per 100,000 people
  • Kingston – 824 crime rate per 100,000 people
  • Spring Hill – 923 crime rate per 100,000 people

What Are the Most Dangerous Cities in Tennessee?

According to data provided by the FBI, the most dangerous cities in Tennessee are: 

  • Memphis – 9,587 crime rate per 100,000 people
  • Chattanooga – 6,359 crime rate per 100,000 people: 
  • Nashville – 4,927 crime rate per 100,000 people
  • Knoxville – 4,750 crime rate per 100,000 people
  • Ripley – 4,748 crime rate per 100,000 people
  • Jackson – 3,798 crime rate per 100,000 people
  • Bolivar – 3,628 crime rate per 100,000 people 
  • Brownsville – 3,633 crime rate per 100,000 people
  • Covington – 3,041 crime rate per 100,000 people
  • Halls – 2,842 crime rate per 100,000 people 

What Is the Murder Rate in Tennessee?

Tennessee has a murder rate of 8.6, which is slightly above the US average of 6.3. 

Tennessee Economy – How Is the Economy in Tennessee?

The Tennessee GDP (Gross Domestic Product) is $432.3 billion, meaning its economy is strong! The state hosts diverse growing industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and tourism. There are 10 Fortune 500 companies in Tennessee despite having only 12 major cities. 

What Are the Major Industries in Tennessee? 

Manufacturing, technology, agriculture, healthcare, automotive, entertainment, education, and finance are the major industries in Tennessee. The state hosts companies like Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, Simplot Company, and Nissan North America, providing ample competitive jobs for people living in Tennessee who work in its leading industries.

What Are the Most Common Jobs in Tennessee?

Tennessee’s most in-demand occupations are in the healthcare, technology, and construction/trades industries, with the state’s most common jobs being office and administrative support, transportation and material moving, and food preparation and serving.

Tennessee Major Employers

Before you move to Tennessee, you should research your desired area’s job market, major employers, and who you should consider applying to. Here’s a look at the biggest employers in Tennessee and where they’re located

Forbes Best Employers List:

If you work in the public sector, considering State of Tennessee jobs is a great idea, too! Considering the unemployment rate is only 3.7%, you can trust that the Tennessee jobs are abundant! With the number of large companies Tennessee hosts, many young professionals are eager to relocate here. Alternatively, a tool such as Remote’s EOR services allows you to access remote roles across the United States.

What Is the Average Income in Tennessee?

The average income in Tennessee is $37,866, per the US Census Bureau. People living in Tennessee who work in management are earning the most, according to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, with finance and legal occupations not far behind: 

  • Management: $122,340
  • Legal: $111,940
  • Computer & mathematical: $90,370

What Is the Average Wage in Tennessee?

The average wage in Tennessee is $1,100 a week. 

What Is the Average Hourly Wage in Tennessee?

The average hourly earnings for private nonfarm employees in Tennessee are $30.09. 

What Is the Average Teacher Salary in Tennessee?

The average salary for a teacher living in Tennessee is $55,369, which is ranked 44th compared to other US states. 

What Is the Median Household Income in Tennessee?

Tennessee has a median household income of $67,097. 

Education in Tennessee

Before moving to Tennessee, you must consider its educational system. 147 public school districts in the state serve more than 900,000 students. Whether you plan to enroll your child in the public school system or a private school, or you’re interested in which college you should attend when living in Tennessee, we have the information below. 

Tennessee Promise Program

One great thing about living in Tennessee is the many state-funded programs you’ll gain access to. The Tennessee Promise is a statewide scholarship and mentoring initiative aiming to increase the number of Tennesseans with postsecondary credentials. This program allows eligible high school graduates to attend community or technical colleges tuition-free. It covers any remaining tuition and fees after other financial aid has been applied.

Where Does Tennessee Rank in Education? 

The Tennessee education ranking is 31st compared to other US states. 

Best School Districts in Tennessee

You will find the best schools in Tennessee within the following districts: 

The best high schools in Tennessee are Merrol Hyde Magnet School, Central Magnet School in Murfreesboro, Hume Fogg Magnet High School in Nashville, and Martin Luther King Jr. Magnet High School, also in Nashville. 

How Many Colleges Are in Tennessee?

Tennessee also hosts some of the best colleges in the nation. There are 156 colleges and universities in Tennessee

  • Four-year colleges: 68 
  • Public universities: 10 
  • Two-year or less colleges: 88

The most notable four-year colleges are Vanderbilt University, Lipscomb University, Union University, the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, and Rhodes College. Vanderbilt, Lipscomb, and the University of Tennessee offer top-notch business programs, and Belmont and East Tennessee University provide great nursing programs. 

As for community colleges, Nashville State Community College, Chattanooga State University, and Tennessee Community College are great options. 

Fun Facts About Tennessee

Are you looking for interesting facts about Tennessee

  • Did you know that Mountain Dew and Cotton Candy were invented in Tennessee?
  • Tennessee has been pegged The Music Capital of the World?You will find live music on almost every corner in cities like Nashville. 
  • There are more than 10,000 caves in the Volunteer State
  • It’s home to the oldest registered distillery in the US, the Jack Daniel’s Distillery
  • The state is divided into three main Grand Divisions: East, Middle, and West Tennessee.

Pros and Cons of Living in Tennessee

Living in TN comes with a handful of pros and cons.

Pros

  • Affordable living – Living in Tennessee provides a cost of living that’s 10% below the US average. 
  • Thriving food scene – Tennessee living is famous for its delicious Nashville hot chicken, southern cooking, and robust whiskey scene. 
  • Thriving music scene – As the music capital of the world, it’s safe to say Tennessee has a robust music scene. 
  • Lowest property tax rates – When looking at the pros and cons of living in Tennessee, it’s key we consider its property taxes, which are among the lowest in the country. 
  • Great recreational opportunities – There are 59 state parks in Tennessee and one national park, providing ample outdoor activities. 
  • Southern charm – Famous for its friendly atmosphere and friendly residents, you’ll experience old-fashioned southern charm in real time when living in Tennessee.

Cons

  • Lack of public transportation – While public transportation is good in its biggest cities, due to the many rural areas of TN, public transportation can be limited, depending on where you end up when moving to Tennessee. 
  • Humid climate – While Tennessee does experience all four seasons, the summer months can be particularly humid, with an average relative humidity of 69.4%.
  • Air quality concerns – The state experiences Ozone pollution concerns in its very developed areas, like Nashville. However, the American Lung Association measured 15 cities in Tennessee, and 8 had zero bad air quality days. Four cities received an A grade.

Is Tennessee a good place to live? As you can see, the pros of living in Tennessee greatly outweigh the cons, making this a great state to call home. There are numerous cities to choose from, various activities to enjoy, and affordable housing options to explore. US News has recently ranked Tennessee as the 27th-best state in the US to reside in.

Moving to Tennessee Info

Before living in Tennessee can become a reality, there are some logistics you must work out. For example, you must determine your budget and the area’s climate and weather patterns. Another important step is changing the address on your license. 

Moving to Tennessee With 6th Man Movers

Living in Tennessee makes everyday life better. The people are friendly, and the relatively low cost of living improves the entire experience. It’s set apart from other southern states as it’s very diverse; living in Tennessee offers a unique music scene and diverse demographics. If you’re looking for affordable housing prices, warm summer months, and a long list of lovely cities to choose from, consider moving to Tennessee with 6th Man Movers. Call the best Tennessee movers today at (615) 434-8272 for a free estimate. 

REQUEST A QUOTE

  • All Fields Are Required

Search by Category

Search For more helpful Resources

Search by Category

ULTIMATE

moving

CHECK LIST