Moving to Tennessee in 2025? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve considered a move to a new state, Tennessee might have popped up on your radar.It’s hard not to be tempted with its modern exterior and quaint interior. Making the leap to a new state is no small choice, so we’ve crafted a comprehensive guide to The Volunteer State. 

Our guide is here to help you figure out if Tennessee is your next great adventure and pinpoint the perfect spot to plant your roots.

1. Nashville

Right in the heart of Middle Tennessee, Nashville isn’t just the backdrop for aspiring singers to become music legends; it's also home to lush neighborhoods and some of the best food in the state.

2. Knoxville 

Head over to East Tennessee where the University of Tennessee pumps out some of the most spirited fans around. Here, the orange and white colors of the Volunteers aren’t just for game day, they’re a way of life.

3. Chattanooga

Tucked away in Southeast Tennessee, Chattanooga offers breathtaking scenery and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're into white water rafting or mountain hiking, this city never runs out of adventures.

4. Memphis

Down in Southwest Tennessee, Memphis beats to the rhythm of blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. And yes, it's also the proud location of Elvis Presley’s iconic Graceland Mansion. If music history had a capital, Memphis would be a strong contender.

In Tennessee, your dollar stretches especially far in smaller towns—eight of which are ranked in the top 100 best places to relocate in the U.S. With fewer people and more space, towns like Johnson City and Clarksville offer living costs that dip well below the national average, making them attractive and affordable places to settle down.

Even Tennessee's larger cities like Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Memphis keep things budget-friendly, largely thanks to reasonable housing prices. This means you can enjoy a bit of city life without the hefty price tag usually associated with big-city living.

So, where in Tennessee is living more costly? Nashville stands out as the exception. It's a little pricier, sure, but given its top-notch neighborhoods, bustling entertainment scene, and overall vibe, it's still a bargain compared to similar cities elsewhere. For those looking to balance cost and amenities, nearby areas like Murfreesboro offer a more budget-friendly gateway to Nashville's charms.

While Tennessee's average wages might not top the charts, the state's low cost of living means your dollar stretches further here.

Major cities like Nashville are buzzing with big employers that keep the job market lively. Think healthcare giants like HCA and Vanderbilt in Middle Tennessee, and tech and auto heavyweights like Nissan and Amazon in Nashville. 

In Memphis, there’s Fed-Ex, and Knoxville is home to the renowned Oak Ridge Laboratory. Whether you're in healthcare, tech, or logistics, Tennessee offers a thriving job scene without the hefty price tag.

Tennessee may be vast and diverse, but it boasts an equally impressive public education system. Germantown, right outside Memphis, is often hailed as the state’s top school district, with Maryville near Knoxville also earning high marks.

Not to be outdone, the Arlington and Kingsport districts shine brightly, while the Nashville suburbs like Franklin, Brentwood, and Spring Hill are hotspots for stellar schools.

When it comes to the best public high schools, Nashville’s suburbs really take the cake. Merrol Hyde Magnet School in Hendersonville, just a stone’s throw from Nashville, not only tops Tennessee’s charts but also ranks among the top three nationwide according to US News.

Nashville area schools dominate the state rankings, while Knoxville’s L&N Stem Academy and other specialized schools make notable appearances as well. Whether you're in the big city or its thriving outskirts, Tennessee’s educational offerings are tough to beat.

Tennessee's real estate market has been defying economic trends this past year, thriving even when other sectors wobbled.

Thanks to the state's low taxes, affordable living, and plenty of space, people are moving from pricier locales, boosting property values across Tennessee. Every city, big and small, has seen home prices climb.

Wondering if homes in Tennessee are expensive? Generally, they're quite affordable. Cities like Knoxville and Chattanooga offer great value, with many homes priced around or even below $200K. 

Nashville, however, is the exception. The music city's average home prices are closer to $350K, with some areas climbing even higher.

While that might not sound as sweet, Nashville's real estate has consistently appreciated, making it a solid investment if you're looking to lay down roots in Tennessee's most vibrant city.

Tennessee not only offers some of the lowest property tax rates in the nation but also rolls out the welcome mat with no state income tax. This means more money stays in your pocket, making it a fantastic place to settle down long-term.

And yes, while the state makes up for it with a slightly higher sales tax—about 7%—this clever setup means tourists help foot the bill for local amenities. So, in Tennessee, your dollar stretches further, giving you a bigger bang for your buck in almost every way.

Tennessee boasts one of the coziest climates around. While it does get warmer as you drift west towards the Mississippi River, the whole state enjoys brisk winters and extended toasty summers.

Sure, the mountains might see a snow flurry or two but don't worry, spring usually pops in early, right around March.

Considering Tennessee as your next home? You're in good company. Many people have made the move and haven't looked back, attracted by the vibrant job market, manageable cost of living, and endless recreational opportunities. Tennessee's charm is such that it's not uncommon for visitors to come for a short stay, only to find themselves plotting a permanent move as soon as they leave.