Moving to Tennessee means lower living costs, zero state income tax, and ample job opportunities. You'll find strong communities, rich cultural activities, and genuine hospitality. From the allure of living in Nashville, the state's vibrant capital, to the best small towns, there's somewhere for everyone to make their home in Tennessee. Here, we'll guide you through the most important things you need to know to help you decide if you're ready to call the Volunteer State home.

3 Reasons Tennessee Is a Great Place to Live

• Tennessee's strong spirit of volunteerism and history offers a welcoming environment for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a tight-knit community spirit.
• The state's low cost of living and property taxes, coupled with no state income tax, make Tennessee an economically attractive option despite a higher sales tax rate.
• Tennessee provides a vibrant lifestyle for residents and visitors alike, with many outdoor activities in state and national parks, a rich music heritage with festivals and historic venues, and a diverse culinary scene.

Why Is Tennessee Called the Volunteer State?

Ever curious about why Tennessee is affectionately known as the "Volunteer State"? The name traces back to the state's rich history of volunteerism, notably in military service. Tennessee contributed many soldiers during the War of 1812, especially in the Battle of New Orleans, earning it this well-deserved nickname.

The spirit of volunteerism persisted beyond this point. When the call came for a mere 2,800 soldiers during the Mexican-American War, the people of Tennessee responded with a force of over 30,000. This overwhelming response further solidified the cultural significance of the state's nickname.

The title The Volunteer State today stands as a symbol of civic pride and dedication to service, playing a substantial role in shaping Tennessee's identity. This spirit of volunteerism is not just a part of Tennessee's history but an integral part of its fabric, shaping its communities and, by extension, shaping the experiences of those living in Tennessee.

The Allure of Tennessee's Cities

Tennessee's cities are a melting pot of culture, history, and modern amenities, each boasting unique attractions. The city of Nashville is home to The Hermitage, and the expansive Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center with its indoor tropical gardens.

Meanwhile, in Midtown Memphis, the Memphis Zoo offers a wide range of exhibits and wildlife education, attracting locals and tourists alike. Chattanooga, another feather in Tennessee's cap, champions a vibrant farm-to-table dining scene, with establishments like Urban Stack leading the way in promoting local produce and sustainable farming practices. These cities offer a blend of historic charm and modern conveniences, making living in Tennessee an exciting prospect.

Regardless of whether you're contemplating relocation to Tennessee or a short visit, the cities of this state provide a myriad of experiences that appeal to a wide range of tastes and interests. From the bustling streets of Nashville to the historic charm of Memphis and the culinary delight of Chattanooga, Tennessee's cities are a testament to the state's diverse cultural landscape.

Cost of Living: Affordability Meets Quality of Life

The affordability of Tennessee stands out as one of its most attractive features. Compared to the national average, the cost of living in Tennessee is relatively low, making it an attractive place to live.

Residents consider Tennessee a great place to live, not just because of its thriving economy but also due to its low cost of living. The affordability extends to property taxes as well. With a median property tax bill for homeowners at $1,317, significantly lower than the national average, Tennessee offers an excellent balance between affordability and quality of life.

Tax Benefits: No State Income Tax and More

Residing in Tennessee carries numerous tax benefits, with the lack of a state income tax particularly noteworthy. This allows residents to retain more of their earned income, making Tennessee an attractive place to live, especially for those seeking to stretch their dollars further.

In addition to no state income tax, Tennessee residents also benefit from the absence of inheritance or estate tax. This is a significant benefit for those looking to pass on their assets to the next generation without hefty tax implications.

Nonetheless, it's important to highlight that Tennessee imposes a high sales tax rate. The sales tax includes a 7% state tax and an additional 2.75% on single items priced from $1,600 to $3,200. Localities can add up to an additional 2.75% sales tax, resulting in an average combined rate of approximately 9.55%—the second highest in the nation.

Even with the considerable sales tax rates, Tennessee's overall tax burden is relatively low compared to many other states, creating a favorable tax environment for individuals and businesses. This balance of tax benefits and responsibilities contributes to Tennessee's appeal as a place of residence.

Job Market and Economic Growth

In the realm of the job market, Tennessee has an unemployment rate of 3.4%, just below the national average of 3.9%. This indicates a healthy job market, making Tennessee an attractive place for job seekers.

Given the robust job market and abundant resources for job seekers, professionals aiming to further their careers will find Tennessee to be an ideal location. With the mighty Nashville economy operating as the engine, the Tennessee job market offers a wealth of opportunities, including:

• High demand for healthcare professionals
• Growing tech industry
• Strong manufacturing sector
• Thriving tourism and hospitality industry

Things to Do in Tennessee

Tennessee, with its rich blend of natural beauty, professional sports teams, and vibrant cities, offers a wide array of activities that contribute to its allure as a great place to live. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where endless trails, scenic views, and diverse wildlife await. For music lovers, Tennessee is unparalleled, with Nashville's legendary country music scene and Memphis's soulful blues and rock 'n' roll heritage. The state's commitment to the arts is evident in its numerous festivals, museums, and theaters. Moreover, Tennessee's culinary scene, from mouthwatering barbecue to classic Southern comfort food, ensures a delightful experience for foodies.

Nature's Playground: Outdoor Activities and National Parks

Nature enthusiasts will find Tennessee to be a paradise. The state is home to the most visited national park in the United States: the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here, you can indulge in activities like:

• hiking
• camping
• horseback riding
• fishing
• wildlife spotting

Breathtaking hiking trails are offered in the state's parks, facilitating a profound connection with nature for its enthusiasts. The Tennessee River enhances these outdoor experiences with boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. It's also a top-notch spot for bass and catfish fishing not far from the Mississippi River.

Middle Tennessee is also well-loved for its fantastic outdoor activities. Whether you're exploring Nashville's best parks or hiking trails in a nearby suburb, exploring this region is one of the main reasons people love moving to Tennessee.

With over 50 state parks, Tennessee is committed to conserving its extensive biodiversity, especially shown by the variety of plant life in the Great Smoky Mountains. From casual hikers to daring thrill-seekers, the outdoor offerings in the state cater to everyone, truly making it a playground of nature.

A Melting Pot of Music Genres

Tennessee is synonymous with music, and for a good reason. The state is renowned for its diverse music genres, including country, rock 'n' roll, blues, jazz, R&B, and gospel.

Key venues like Ryman Auditorium, the Grand Ole Opry, and attractions like Elvis Presley's Graceland, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Memphis, and Music Row in Nashville make Tennessee a music lover's paradise.

Historic recording studios in Nashville include Omnisound Studios, Columbia Studio A, The Parlor Studio, and many more. These studios have recorded legendary artists, contributing to the city's reputation as Music City.

Another highlight of Tennessee's music scene is the music festivals. Some of the famous festivals include:

• CMA Music Festival
• Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion
• Americana Music Festival
• Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival
• National Quartet Convention
• Mempho Music Festival
• Big Ears Festival
• Tin Pan South
• Southern Skies Music & Whiskey Festival
• Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival

Music enthusiasts can further experience the cultural impact of Tennessee's music scene in attractions like the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum and live music venues on Beale Street in downtown Memphis.

Southern Cuisine: From BBQ to Farm-to-Table

Tennessee's southern cuisine is a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. Famous for its delectable barbecue, Tennessee provides various regional styles for food lovers to explore. Some standout styles include:

• Memphis-style barbecue
• Nashville hot chicken
• East Tennessee mountain cooking
• West Tennessee soul food

These regional styles contribute to the rich culinary heritage of Tennessee.

But Tennessee's culinary offerings are wider than barbecue. The state's dining scene includes various options, from comfort food to farm-to-table dining. The availability of fresh fruit, vegetables, and other healthful foods in Tennessee communities often correlates with overall health, economic prosperity, and higher property values.

Sports Culture: Professional and College Teams

Tennessee's vibrant sports culture adds to its allure. Several professional sports teams call the state of Tennessee home, such as the Tennessee Titans (NFL), Memphis Grizzlies (NBA), Nashville Predators (NHL), and Nashville SC (MLS). These teams contribute to the state's vibrant sports culture. Beyond the professional sports teams, the state also features minor league and other professional teams such as the Chattanooga Lookouts, Chattanooga Red Wolves SC, Memphis 901 FC, Memphis Redbirds, Nashville Sounds, and Tennessee Smokies.

Tennessee's sports culture is enriched by historic college sports rivalries. Tennessee also hosts numerous NCAA Division I college sports teams across different conferences, including the prestigious Southeastern Conference, with teams like the Tennessee Volunteers and Vanderbilt Commodores.

Weather Patterns and Climate Considerations

Understanding the state's climate is vital when contemplating a move to Tennessee. The state has a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot and muggy summers, mild winters with occasional snowfalls, and pleasant spring and fall seasons.

Tennessee experiences:

• High precipitation during winter-spring and midsummer
• Decreasing temperatures by about three degrees Fahrenheit for every 1,000 feet increase in elevation.
• Varying lengths of growing seasons range from around 237 days in lower elevation areas like Memphis to close to 130 days on higher mountain peaks.

The state's annual precipitation varies due to topography; it ranges from 40 inches to over 80 inches, while annual snowfall can differ from a few inches in western and southern regions to significant amounts like ~75 inches observed on Mt. LeConte in the eastern mountains.

Navigating Tennessee's Infrastructure

Understanding Tennessee's infrastructure is a crucial part of residing in the state. Residents can expect more traffic when driving in Nashville and Memphis, while cities like Chattanooga and Knoxville experience less congested traffic. The state offers various pedestrian safety measures and the Complete Streets design approach to enhance roadway safety. Recommendations for bicycle safety are also available.

Alternative solutions, such as public transportation expansions, are in place to ease traffic congestion in major Tennessee cities. Public transportation options include the RTA of Middle Tennessee for commuter services, urban transit authorities in major cities, and trolley services in tourist areas.

Even rural areas have access to public transportation through various Human Resource Agencies, ensuring coverage throughout all counties. Tennessee's commitment to providing efficient and safe transportation options adds to the appeal of living in the state.

Is Moving to Tennessee Right For You?

Tennessee offers a unique blend of history, culture, affordability, and natural beauty, making it an ideal place to live. From the bustling cities of Nashville, Memphis, and Chattanooga to the tranquillity of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there's something for everyone in Tennessee.

Whether you're drawn to Tennessee's vibrant music scene, mouth-watering southern cuisine, passionate sports culture, or affordable living and tax benefits, Tennessee is more than just a state; it's a community that welcomes you with open arms.