Thinking About Moving to Tennessee?
So, you're thinking about making a move to Tennessee? You’re not alone. Whether it's the lower cost of living, no state income tax, or the mix of mountain views and music towns that’s pulling you in, there’s a lot to like. But before you pack the boxes, let’s walk through what life here actually looks like in 2025.
What’s It Gonna Cost You?
The good news? Living in Tennessee won’t break the bank. Compared to most of the U.S., things are a bit cheaper here.
- Buying a home? You’re looking at around $330,000 on average. Some spots like Nashville or Franklin cost more, but small towns are still pretty affordable.
- Renting? A one-bedroom in a city might cost about $1,200. Smaller towns? Probably under $1,000.
- Utilities will usually land somewhere between $180 and $250 a month.
- Groceries and gas tend to be a bit cheaper than the national average.
- Healthcare isn’t too pricey, but it really depends on where you are and what kind of plan you have.
If you’re coming from a place like California or New York, you’ll probably feel like you’re getting a deal here.
Let’s Talk Taxes (It’s Actually Good News)
Here’s something people love about Tennessee, it doesn’t tax your income. That means your paycheck (or retirement income) stays yours.
A few more tax things to know:
- Sales tax is high-up to 9.75% in some areas.
- Property taxes, though, are low. The average rate is under 0.7%.
- No estate or inheritance tax, so that’s one less thing to worry about.
Where Should You Live?
Tennessee has a little bit of everything, big cities, small towns, and quiet country living. Here are a few spots folks tend to love:
Nashville
The city that never stops playing music. Tons of jobs in healthcare, tech, and entertainment. It’s buzzing, but traffic can be a pain.
Knoxville
More laid-back than Nashville. Close to the Smoky Mountains. Great for families and people who like the outdoors.
Chattanooga
This one's a hidden gem. Fast internet, cool downtown, and lots of hiking and river views. Cheaper than Nashville but still lively.
Memphis
Music, barbecue, and grit. Housing is cheap, but crime can be an issue in some neighborhoods. Still, there’s real charm here.
Franklin
Picture-perfect suburb outside of Nashville. Clean, safe, great schools, but you’ll pay a premium for it.
Getting Around
Let’s be honest, you’ll probably need a car in most places.
- Driving is the main way people get around.
- Public transit exists in cities like Nashville and Memphis, but it’s not great for long commutes.
- Airports are in most major cities, so flying isn’t hard.
- Traffic can get bad in Nashville. Smaller cities? Not so much.
If you’re used to trains and subways, this might take some getting used to.
The Good Stuff About Living Here
There’s a reason so many people are choosing Tennessee. Actually, a few reasons:
- No income tax = more money in your pocket.
- Lower housing costs mean you might actually afford that backyard.
- Mild winters, no endless snowstorms.
- Gorgeous scenery, think mountains, rivers, and wide-open skies.
- Great music, especially in Nashville and Memphis.
- Strong job growth in healthcare, shipping, and manufacturing.
The Not-So-Great Stuff
But hey, no place is perfect. Here’s what might bug you:
- Summers can be hot and sticky.
- Sales tax is high, so that new TV might cost more than you expect.
- You’ll probably need a car, even in the cities.
- Allergy season can be brutal.
- Schools are hit or miss, some districts are great, others not so much.
So, Should You Move Here?
It depends on what you’re after.
If you're looking to stretch your dollars, enjoy a slower pace, or escape big-city stress, Tennessee could be a solid fit. But if you rely on public transit or want cold winters, it might not be your jam.
Still, with no income tax, friendly people, and a mix of small-town charm and city life, a lot of folks are finding their next chapter here. And who knows? You might, too.
Final Word
Moving is a big deal. It’s not just about finding a house, it’s about building a life. Tennessee offers a lot to work with: space, opportunity, nature, and a laid-back vibe. It’s not flashy, and it doesn’t pretend to be. But for many people, that’s exactly the point.
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