Living in Tennessee brings comfort, space, and a slower pace many people appreciate. The state offers affordable housing, mild weather, and a strong sense of local pride. Families, young professionals, and retirees all find something that fits their needs. Job options are steady, and the cost of living stays low. Tennessee also has good schools, access to nature, and a rich music scene that’s part of everyday life. People who move here often say they feel settled quickly. If you’re thinking about moving soon, the process is easier if you let Verified Movers help you find the right moving team!
A State That Feels Familiar
Tennessee feels familiar, even if you’ve never been there before. It’s the kind of place where people wave to neighbors and stop to chat at the store. There’s a slower pace to life, and many folks appreciate that. Families stay in the same area for years, sometimes generations. That sense of stability creates strong communities. You’ll see kids playing outside, adults working on yards, and people gathering for local events. It’s easy to feel at home. Small towns offer comfort, but even cities hold onto their friendly feel. You don’t need to adjust to a fast, crowded lifestyle.
Instead, you get the time and space to enjoy everyday moments. Access to good schools, healthcare, and stores is simple. Roads are easy to drive, and traffic isn’t stressful. That’s a big reason people choose Tennessee. They want a better daily life without losing convenience. If you’re planning to settle here, choosing one of the best moving companies Tennessee will help make the process easier. They know the area well and can help you settle in faster. Once you arrive, you’ll notice how quickly strangers feel like neighbors. That’s one of the strongest upsides of living in Tennessee. While there are numerous other advantages to life in Tennessee, these are the most important:
Cost of living in Tennessee is low
The cost of living in Tennessee is lower than the national average, which makes it appealing for people in all stages of life. Groceries, housing, utilities, and transportation cost less here compared to many other states. This means your paycheck stretches further. On average, overall living costs in Tennessee are about 10% lower than in most U.S. states. Housing is the biggest factor. You can find homes for much less, even near major cities. In Memphis, for example, the median home price is around $150,000, and many rental units go for under $1,200 per month. That’s affordable for singles, families, and retirees alike. Many people are hiring one of the cross country moving companies Memphis to relocate them to this affordable city.
Nashville is more expensive due to its size and demand, but it still offers better value than cities of similar size in other parts of the country. A one-bedroom apartment may cost around $1,500, but utility bills remain manageable. All these factors combined make Tennessee a smart choice for anyone who wants to live well without overspending. You can have a decent home, enjoy regular outings, and build savings—all without financial strain. If you are interested in living in Tennessee, contact cross country moving companies Nashville to help you relocate there!
There is no state income tax after moving to Tennessee
Tennessee stands out as one of the few states without a personal income tax. This means residents keep more of their earnings, whether from wages, salaries, or retirement income. The state previously taxed interest and dividends through the Hall Income Tax, but this was fully repealed by 2021 . As a result, Tennessee does not tax Social Security benefits, pensions, or income from 401(k) and IRA withdrawals . This tax structure benefits a wide range of people, from working professionals to retirees, by reducing their overall tax burden. This financial advantage is a key reason many individuals and families choose to live in Tennessee, seeking a more favorable economic environment. If you are one of them, read moving companies reviews Tennessee and find the right moving team!
Property taxes are quite reasonable
There isn’t a state in the country that does not collect a property tax. These taxes are a simple fact of life for all US citizens. However, Tennessee maintains one of the lowest property taxes in the entire nation! This serves to further improve your cash flow whether you own a single apartment or several houses. Of course, the more property you have, the higher the tax. But that is no different from any other state in the country.
Numerous recreational opportunities
Tennessee offers plenty of ways to enjoy your free time, no matter your interests. The state has parks, rivers, trails, and lakes that invite people to spend time outdoors. If you enjoy hiking, you’ll find trails across the state—from the Smoky Mountains, one of the top Tennessee weekend getaways to check out, to the Cumberland Plateau. These trails range from short, easy walks to long climbs with rewarding views. Fishing, boating, and camping are also popular. Lakes like Norris, Cherokee, and Pickwick offer wide spaces for fishing trips or family outings. You don’t need to travel far to find a good spot. Many towns maintain clean, well-kept parks for sports, picnics, and walking.
For those who prefer indoor fun, Tennessee has plenty to offer too. Music venues, museums, and sports games keep things interesting. You can catch a show in Nashville, watch a Grizzlies game in Memphis, or explore science centers in cities like Chattanooga and Knoxville. Live music is easy to find, even in small towns. Seasonal events, fairs, and food festivals give people something to look forward to year-round. Families enjoy these events, and newcomers often feel welcome right away. There’s also a strong culture of local leagues and clubs—basketball, soccer, softball, and even pickleball.
This mix of outdoor and indoor activities means there’s always something to do. You can stay active, meet people, and feel part of the community. Tennessee doesn’t make you choose between nature and culture. You get both—and that makes daily life much more enjoyable.
When living in Tennessee, you can expect gentle winters
When living in Tennessee, you can expect winters that are short and mild. Most areas in the state see very little snow, and temperatures rarely drop too low. You might need a jacket, but you won’t be digging your car out every morning. This kind of winter appeals to people who don’t enjoy long, icy seasons. Roads stay clear, outdoor plans don’t get canceled often, and heating bills stay manageable.
Cities like Nashville and Memphis may see a dusting of snow once or twice, but it melts quickly. Even in eastern Tennessee, near the mountains, snow is usually light. The cold doesn’t stick around for long. Many winter days feel more like early spring in other parts of the country. You can still walk, exercise, and run errands without feeling stuck inside. For people who are used to harsh northern winters, Tennessee brings a big change—for the better. You get the change of season without the hassle. The air is crisp, but not painful. The skies stay bright, and the risk of winter storms is low. This makes it easier to stay active and enjoy your regular routine all year. That’s one more reason people enjoy living in Tennessee.
Strong job market and steady growth
Tennessee continues to attract workers because of its strong job market and steady growth. Jobs are available in many industries—healthcare, education, technology, manufacturing, logistics, and construction. Large companies have opened offices and factories across the state, but there’s also space for small businesses and startups. Cities like Nashville, which is one of the best cities for families in Tennessee, Chattanooga, and Knoxville show consistent job growth, but opportunities are also rising in smaller towns. New businesses are opening, and older ones are expanding. People aren’t just chasing high-level careers here—they’re building steady lives. Many workers enjoy stable hours, decent pay, and enough time to enjoy family and hobbies. That balance is something people talk about often.
Tennessee also supports entrepreneurs. Permits and business requirements are easier to handle than in other states. If you want to open a local store, run a food truck, or launch an online service, this state gives you room to try. Trade jobs like HVAC, plumbing, and welding are always needed, and training programs are short and affordable. Remote workers also benefit. Internet service has improved, and you don’t need to live in a high-cost city to do well. Because living expenses stay low, people here can manage two jobs—one for income, one for something they enjoy. That kind of freedom helps people build more stable, satisfying lives. Jobs in Tennessee aren’t just about money—they support a full and balanced way of living. That’s one reason so many people move here and choose to stay long-term.
Easy travel within and beyond
Travel is simple when you live in Tennessee. The state has well-connected highways that link major cities, making drives short and easy. Whether you’re heading to Nashville, Chattanooga, Memphis, or Knoxville, the road system keeps trips smooth. Flights are also available from several airports, including Nashville International and Memphis International, offering quick access to other states. Tennessee’s location puts you close to places like North Carolina, Mississippi, Georgia, and Arkansas. That makes weekend trips more convenient. Families often take short getaways or visit nearby relatives without long travel times. Even large cities like Atlanta and St. Louis are within driving distance.
Inside the state, daily commutes are manageable. Traffic in Nashville can slow down during rush hour, but it’s far better than what you’d find in bigger cities. Smaller towns have minimal traffic at all. This helps people get to work, run errands, and pick up kids from school without stress. Travel becomes part of your lifestyle, not something you dread. Whether you need to fly out or just run to the store, things stay simple. People feel more free and less boxed in. Easy travel is one of the many everyday benefits of living in Tennessee.
Education options for all ages
This state has invested in education, offering choices for families with kids as well as adults returning to school. Public schools vary by district, but many areas have highly rated schools with strong teachers and active parent groups. Magnet and charter schools provide even more options, especially in cities. Private schools and faith-based schools are also available for families who want a different approach.
Four-year universities like the University of Tennessee and Middle Tennessee State provide strong programs in business, education, science, and more. Moving trends in Tennessee show that many young people relocate here for education. Adults who want to switch careers or gain new skills also benefit. Community colleges and trade schools offer night classes and flexible programs. Many programs take just a year or two and lead to steady jobs. These options matter to families, young professionals, and even retirees looking to learn something new. Education isn’t limited to one path in Tennessee. The support from both public and private sectors helps people move forward, no matter their age or goal.
When talking about education, we must mention Tennessee Promise Scholarship. It is a mentoring and high education scholarship program that focuses on increasing the number of college students in the state. Of course, it also encourages their success in school. This scholarship will cover all tuition and fees that are not covered by the HOPE scholarship, state student assistance funds, or the Pell grant.
Local food you’ll actually love
Food in Tennessee is something people talk about—and with good reason. You’ll find real flavor here. Barbecue is a big deal, especially in Memphis. Ribs, pulled pork, and smoked chicken are done right, with recipes passed down through families. Nashville brings its own twist with hot chicken, served spicy and crispy with simple sides. But it’s not just about meat. Farmers markets are common, offering fresh produce, homemade bread, honey, and eggs. You can taste the difference when ingredients come from nearby fields. Local diners, food trucks, and bakeries serve meals that feel homemade. Portions are generous, and prices are fair.
Many towns also have strong international food scenes—Vietnamese, Mexican, Greek, and Indian restaurants pop up even in smaller cities. You don’t need a reservation or a suit to enjoy great meals here. It’s casual and real. Family-run restaurants often become local favorites, and regulars are treated like friends. Food events like chili cook-offs, rib fests, and pie contests bring people together all year long. If you enjoy cooking, grocery stores and butchers offer fresh and affordable ingredients. Eating well doesn’t cost much in Tennessee, and it’s part of what keeps people satisfied with their daily life.
A State That Works for Everyone’s Needs
Living in Tennessee offers a balance that’s hard to find elsewhere. You get lower costs, short commutes, mild winters, and strong local pride. Whether you’re raising a family, starting a career, or settling into retirement, daily life feels more manageable here. Jobs are steady, homes are affordable, and neighbors care. You don’t need luxury to live well—you just need comfort, stability, and space to breathe. Tennessee gives you all of that without pressure or noise. It’s a place where you can build a life that fits your goals. For anyone looking for a fresh start or better pace, living in this amazing state is a smart and rewarding choice.