Why move to Tennessee?
If you’re like most people and me in the United States, you probably look at a map and think of Tennessee as that southern state located about halfway between Texas and Virginia. It is, after all, nicknamed the “Volunteer State,” right?
Well, it turns out there’s a lot more to the Volunteer State than meets the eye, and if you’re considering moving here, it’s essential to know what some of those things are. To help make your move go smoothly, we’ve put together a list of the top things you’ll need to know about Tennessee.
How is the weather in Tennessee?
Both seasons in Tennessee are relatively mild. It’s never that cold in the winter or that hot in the summer. Now you’re probably thinking, “Hey, isn’t Nashville known for its hot summers?” Well, it is—and we’ll get to that later. First, let’s focus on the winters.
The winter season in Tennessee typically begins in late November and continues until mid-March. During this time, you can expect pretty chilly temperatures, although it’s usually closer to the 40s than to the 30s, that is unless we get a cold snap or a Nor’easter.
The winter months also tend to bring more snow to the Tennessee Valley when compared to our neighbors in Kentucky. Still, there is rarely enough snow accumulation on the ground—or much of anything else for that matter to keep people from going about their daily lives.
The spring season is enjoyable in Tennessee since it’s not too hot and cold. The average temperatures range between 60 and 70 degrees, making it perfect for exploring the state.
Of course, if you’re here during the summer months, you know that they tend to get pretty hot. Temperatures regularly reach the 80s in most parts of Tennessee between May and September. If you choose to live in one of these parts of the state, you should know that the humidity levels tend to be higher than usual.
However, one benefit to living here during summertime is that the Smoky Mountains are most beautiful during July and August.
What are the larger cities in Tennessee?
Although most people think of Nashville when they picture Tennessee, that’s not the state’s most populous city. Believe it or not, Memphis is number one! It’s a central hub for international business and a popular tourist destination.
Nashville isn’t far behind, though. It’s the state’s second-most populous city and is known for its nationally recognized healthcare system.
In addition to these two major cities, there are a few other places in Tennessee that should be noted:
- Kingsport
- Clarksville
- Knoxville
- Chattanooga.
Moving to Memphis, TN
The first thing you’ll notice about Memphis is that it’s a city with plenty of southern charm. This shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, though, since it’s often referred to as the birthplace of the blues and was the setting for movies like “The Firm” and “The Client.”
When you move to Memphis, you’ll also find that it’s a city that has excellent cultural attractions as well as vibrant nightlife. Many people come here specifically for the latter.
In addition to all of those great things about Memphis, your kids will enjoy going to school here since there are several top-notch colleges and universities nearby, such as:
- The University of Memphis
- Christian Brothers University
- The University of Tennessee at Martin
- King University
- LeMoyne-Owen College
How are the home prices in Memphis?
As of 2022, the median home value in Memphis is $225,300. In addition, the average rent cost for a two-bedroom apartment is between $900 to $1,850, depending on the neighborhood you decide to live in.
Moving to Nashville, TN
Nashville is a popular destination for people who love to work in the music industry. There are lots of opportunities for singers and songwriters here.
It’s also home to large healthcare companies such as HCA, which operates several hospitals nationwide.
And since Nashville has so many colleges and universities within its borders, including:
Your family will likely be able to find several colleges within driving distance.
Also, you’ll enjoy living here because it’s known for its romantic hot spots like the Ryman Auditorium and the Hermitage Hotel. Plus, you’ll find that the city is filled with friendly people.
How are the home prices in Nashville?
As of January 2022, the median home price in Nashville is $438,000. In addition, the average rent cost for a two-bedroom apartment is between $1,450 to $2,200 and depends on the neighborhood you decide to move to.
Moving to Knoxville, TN
Although it’s not as populated as Nashville or Memphis, Knoxville is another city with plenty of southern charm. It’s also filled with historical sites like the Bijou Theatre and Market Square.
And wouldn’t you know it? Knoxville also has several colleges and universities that are perfect for your children, including:
- The University of Tennessee
- King University
- Lincoln Memorial University
- East Tennessee State University
- Austin Peay State University
When it comes to food, you’ll find some great places here according to Tripadvisor, like:
- Calhoun’s on Bearden Hill
- Corner16
- Nick & J’s Cafe
- Connors Steak & Seafood
- Chesapeake’s West Knoxville
Are home prices in Knoxville as high as in Nashville?
No, the median sold home in Knoxville is around $297,500. In addition, the average rent cost for a two-bedroom apartment is between $1,100 to $2,400, Morningside being the most expensive neighborhood in Knoxville.
Moving to Chattanooga, TN
If you’re moving to Chattanooga, then you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of things for your family to do here. This city is often called the Scenic City because it’s surrounded by mountains and offers scenic views.
The city has lots of beautiful places to visit, including:
- The Tennessee Aquarium
- Rock City
- Ruby Falls
- Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel
- Lookout Mountain Attractions
These places are only a few of the many attractions Chattanooga offers.
Also, this city is home to several top-notch colleges and universities that your kids can attend, such as:
- The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
- Southern Adventist University
- Lee University in Clevland, TN (approximately 35 minutes from Chattanooga)
Chattanooga also has a thriving job market.
Chattanooga’s economy revolves mainly around three main areas: logistics and transportation, health care, and manufacturing.
The city has two industrial parks that are home to many companies in the business of logistics, including Amazon, Volkswagen, and Whirlpool in Clevland, TN.
Since Chattanooga is also located near the heart of the Appalachians, it’s a top destination for health care jobs. For example, HCA is headquartered in nearby Franklin, TN, and Erlanger has five hospitals based in Chattanooga.
Median sold home price in Chattanooga in 2022:
Chattanooga’s median sold home price is expected to be around $255,000. The average cost of renting a two-bedroom apartment isn’t too high either, approximately $1,200 to $1,400.
Currently (February 2022), the inventory of homes on the market is low, so expect competition when searching for your new home. Downtown Chattanooga, Brainerd, and North Chattanooga are the best and most expensive parts of town.
Household Income and Taxes
One thing in common about living in Tennessee is that the cost of living here is relatively low compared to other cities in the United States, especially when you compare it to places like New York City and Denver, CO.
Another thing in common is that Tennessee has no state income tax, which is a big plus when deciding where to live in Tennessee.
Economy & Income comparison: Knoxville vs. Chattanooga
The median household income in Knoxville is approximately $48,000, while the median household income in Chattanooga is about $57,300. The current job growth rate is 0.9 percent in Knoxville, yet it’s 2.8 percent in Chattanooga.
As of February 2022, the unemployment rate is 2.6 percent in Knoxville and Chattanooga at 2.7 percent.
Economy & Income comparison: Memphis vs. Nashville
According to BestPlaces, the annual family median household income is $45,700 in Memphis, whereas it’s $52,900 in Nashville. It’s interesting to note that the Tennessee minimum wage for 2022 is $7.25 per hour, but Representative Larry Miller has submitted a bill to increase it to $12 per hour by 2025.
Miller’s goal is to ensure that all Tennesseans, including those in low-income families, can earn a livable wage.
The Department of Labor & Workforce Development in TN projects the following job growths for 2022:
- Health care jobs will increase by 5 percent
- Retail jobs will increase by 4 percent
- Construction jobs will increase by 7 percent
- Manufacturing jobs will increase by 8 percent
- Information technology jobs will increase by 12 percent
- Logistics and transportation jobs will increase by 8 percent.
So Will You Be Moving to TN? Get a Free Estimate From Delta Movers Today!
Delta Moving Sytems is a licensed and insured long-distance moving company in Houston serving the entire state of Texas for out-of-state moves.
Our services include:
- Free In-home estimate
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Call us today at (800) 484-0085 or fill out the online form to receive a no-obligation quote from one of our certified moving specialists. Delta Moving Systems is one of the best moving and storage companies in Houston, TX, and we have been operating in Houston for more than 30 years.
