Moving from Virginia to Tennessee is an adventure that holds the promise of new beginnings while also presenting its fair share of logistical hurdles to overcome. The excitement of imagining life in Tennessee, with its rich musical heritage and vibrant communities, complements the fond farewells to Virginia’s picturesque scenery and historic charm. But fear not! This guide is designed to help you navigate the journey. We’ll provide essential insights, moving tips, and a detailed glimpse into what your new Tennessee home has to offer. For more advice, moving reviews, and help in finding a moving company for your relocation, visit the Verified Movers platform. Whether it’s your first big move or you’re a seasoned relocator, we’re here to help make your transition as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
What Do You Need to Know Before Moving From Virginia to Tennessee?
As we have already mentioned, a move from Virginia to Tennessee represents a real adventure. However, when you’re well-prepared, that adventure is nothing but exciting and joyful. One of the first things you need to do is read cross country movers reviews Tennessee so that you can easily find movers for your upcoming relocation. To make the transition simpler, you also need to:
- Understand the major differences;
- Research the job market;
- Find the best city for you;
- Get familiar with the school system;
- Discover the things to do in your free time.
Understanding the major differences
As you prepare to transition from Virginia to Tennessee, it’s crucial to grasp the significant contrasts between the two states. First of all, there is a difference in the cost of living. Tennessee generally boasts a lower cost of living compared to Virginia. That is one of the main reasons people hire interstate moving companies Virginia and move to Tennessee. According to recent data, the median home cost in Tennessee is around $250,000, while in Virginia, it is approximately $285,000. Utility, healthcare, and grocery expenses are also typically lower in Tennessee. However, be prepared for variations within cities. For example, living in bustling Nashville might have a median home cost of $330,000, which is pricier than in a small town like Cookeville, where the median home cost may be closer to $220,000.
Remember that property taxes tend to be lower in Tennessee, which can offset higher home prices in certain areas. Plus, Tennessee does not have a state income tax, potentially resulting in substantial savings over time compared to Virginia’s income tax rates, which range from 2% to 5.75%.
Climate considerations
While both states experience four distinct seasons, Tennessee tends to have milder winters than Virginia. In Tennessee, you can expect average winter temperatures to hover around 39°F, compared to Virginia’s chillier 35°F. Summers in Tennessee are warmer and more humid, especially in the southern parts, where temperatures can reach an average high of 89°F in July. Virginia’s average high is 86°F. Knowing this can help you prepare for potential changes in your energy bills due to heating or cooling needs, as well as your wardrobe and outdoor activity plans.
Research the job market
When moving from Virginia to Tennessee, researching the job market is crucial. Tennessee’s diverse economy is bolstered by thriving sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and, of course, its renowned music industry. For instance, Nashville is not only a music hub but also a significant healthcare center. It hosts companies like HCA Healthcare and Vanderbilt University Medical Center. In Memphis, FedEx and International Paper are among the top employers. The average salary in Tennessee is approximately $50,000, which can vary significantly between urban and rural areas. As of early 2023, Tennessee’s unemployment rate stands at around 4.5%, which is relatively close to the national average.
To tailor your job search effectively, consider using local resources such as Tennessee’s state-specific job boards, including Jobs4TN, which offers comprehensive job listings and valuable insights into various industries. Also, it is important to know that you can always easily move from one place to another and switch jobs. For instance, if your first choice was Nashville, top movers in Nashville will relocate you to Memphis or any other city if you decide so.
Some of the best cities to consider
If you live in Virginia Beach, for instance, before you contact top movers in Virginia Beach to relocate you, you will be glad to know that there are many great cities in Tennessee where you can feel at home. Nashville, the state’s capital, is famous for its vibrant music scene and booming healthcare industry, making it a draw for both young professionals and families alike. Knoxville offers a blend of urban and outdoor living, with the University of Tennessee providing an energetic college-town vibe. Chattanooga, known as the “Scenic City,” is gaining popularity for its affordable living, burgeoning tech scene, and abundant outdoor activities. Meanwhile, Memphis, rich in cultural history and famous for its blues scene, offers some of the state’s most affordable urban living. Each of these cities offers a unique lifestyle, with varying costs of living and amenities to suit diverse preferences and needs.
The educational system in Tennessee
Tennessee boasts an impressive array of higher education options. These include prestigious institutions like Vanderbilt University in Nashville, known for its rigorous academics and medical programs; the University of Tennessee, with its flagship campus in Knoxville, offering a broad spectrum of undergraduate and graduate degrees; and Rhodes College in Memphis, celebrated for its liberal arts education. For families with children, it is essential to be aware of the K-12 education landscape. Tennessee employs the TNReady assessment system to evaluate student performance in public schools. This system is designed to measure student understanding of the curriculum and helps ensure that students are making progress in their learning, preparing them for college and the workforce.
Things to do after the move
From the strum of a guitar at the legendary Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival to the mouth-watering aroma of the Memphis World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, Tennessee is alive with vibrant events year-round. When it comes to satiating your palate, be prepared to dive deep into Tennessee’s culinary scene—from its famous hot chicken and soul-soothing barbecue to the spirited experience of a whiskey distillery tour. And for those in search of natural beauty, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park awaits, offering breathtaking vistas, extensive hiking trails, and serene camping options. Immersing yourself in these local flavors and sights is a rite of passage for every new Tennessean.
Start the Exciting New Chapter
Moving from Virginia to Tennessee marks the start of an exciting new chapter. From the cultural richness of local festivals and the flavors of iconic southern cuisine to the stunning landscapes that await in places like the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee offers a wealth of experiences. As you prepare for this move, arming yourself with valuable insights and tips, as presented in this guide, can help transform a potentially stressful relocation into a smooth and memorable journey into your new home.