Tennessee, known as the birthplace of country music, offers a rich cultural experience and stunning scenery for its residents. With a population of over 7 million, Tennessee is the 16th most populous state in the US. Its diverse economy and popularity as a tourist destination make it an attractive place to live. Whether you’re considering buying a home in Chattanooga or renting an apartment in Cordova, weighing the pros and cons of living in Tennessee can help you make an informed decision.
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Quick Facts about Tennessee
| Population | 6,910,840 |
| Median home sale price | $380,200 |
| Average rent in Tennessee | $1,374 |
| Largest cities in Tennessee | Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville |
Is Tennessee a good place to live?
Tennessee offers affordable living, mild winters, and a strong sense of community, making it a great place to call home. With no state income tax, a relatively low cost of living, and vibrant cities like Nashville, Memphis, and Chattanooga, the state has plenty to offer. Residents can enjoy the beauty of natural areas like the Great Smoky Mountains and a rich cultural scene filled with music, food, and history. While the state has its drawbacks, such as hot summers and limited public transit, many find that the benefits outweigh the challenges.
Living in Tennessee at a glance:
- Friendly, welcoming communities: Southern hospitality thrives here, with warm and welcoming people who are quick to engage in conversation, especially in smaller towns.
- Music is a way of life: Whether it’s country or blues, live music is deeply ingrained in the state’s culture.
- A state in transition: Tennessee is experiencing rapid growth, bringing new businesses, restaurants, and residents, but also higher housing prices and increased traffic in major cities.
- Relaxed pace with urban amenities: Life in Tennessee is laid-back, but cities like Nashville and Memphis offer energy, culture, and career opportunities without the high costs of larger metropolitan areas.
1. Pro: Affordable Cost of Living
Tennessee offers a relatively affordable cost of living, with a median home sale price of $380,200, below the national average. While cities like Knoxville can be expensive, smaller suburbs like Clarksville remain more affordable. With more disposable income due to the lower cost of living, residents can enjoy entertainment, travel, and savings.
2. Con: Extreme Weather
Tennessee, located in Tornado Alley, experiences severe weather such as tornadoes, hurricanes, and flooding. Residents should be prepared for natural disasters and ensure their homes are ready for emergencies.
3. Pro: Vibrant Music and Entertainment Scene
Tennessee is a mecca for music lovers, with attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Grand Ole Opry, and the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival. Live music events featuring various genres like rock, blues, and jazz abound in the state.
4. Con: Presence of Nuclear Power Plants
Tennessee is home to several operating and inactive nuclear power plants, raising safety concerns among residents. Proper maintenance and oversight are essential to address potential risks associated with nuclear facilities.
5. Pro: Abundance of State and National Parks
With over 50 state parks and seven national parks, Tennessee offers a wealth of outdoor activities. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most visited in the US, boasts diverse flora, fauna, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
Popular state parks like Fall Creek Falls, Radnor Lake, and Cumberland Falls cater to hiking, camping, fishing, and scenic walks enthusiasts.
6. Con: Traffic Congestion in Major Cities
Major cities in Tennessee, like Nashville and Memphis, experience heavy traffic, leading to commuting challenges. While public transportation options exist to alleviate congestion, cities such as Chattanooga and Knoxville offer less crowded alternatives.
7. Pro: Outstanding Barbecue Culture
Tennessee is renowned for its delectable barbecue, with various regional styles to savor. Memphis, a barbecue hub, boasts top-notch joints like Central BBQ, Payne’s Bar-B-Que, and Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous, offering mouth-watering dishes like dry rub ribs and Lexington-style barbecue.
8. Con: Humid Climate Challenges
Tennessee’s humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, muggy summers and mild winters, may pose discomfort for some residents. While spring and fall provide pleasant weather, adapting to the humidity may require time for newcomers.
9. Pro: Festive Spirit All Year Round
Tennessee hosts a variety of fairs and festivals celebrating music, food, art, and literature throughout the year. From the Memphis in May International Festival to the Tennessee Strawberry Festival in Dayton and Bonnaroo in Manchester, there’s a festival for every interest, making Tennessee a lively place to live.
10. Con: Landlocked State
As a landlocked state, Tennessee lacks easy access to the ocean. While lakes offer summer recreation, the nearest beach at Gulf Shores, Alabama, requires a road trip for beachgoers in Tennessee.
Methodology: Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau, while median home sale price and average rental data obtained from the Redfin Data Center.