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Moving to Tennessee in 2024? Complete Moving Guide
This is a complete guide for Moving to Tennessee.
Get all the information you need to know about moving to Tennessee.
Moving to Tennessee Guide
Tennessee is a diverse and vibrant state located in the southeastern region of the United States. From its rich musical heritage to its stunning natural landscapes, Tennessee offers a unique blend of culture, history, and outdoor adventures. Before making the move to Tennessee, it's essential to familiarize yourself with key aspects of the state, including demographics, cost of living, job market, and more. This guide provides comprehensive information to help you make an informed decision about relocating to Tennessee.
- Quick Facts of Tennessee
- Top reasons to move to Tennessee
- Pros & Cons of Living in Tennessee
- Best Neighborhoods in the Tennessee
- Cost of living in Tennessee
- Tennessee job market
- Major industries in Tennessee
- Top Career Options in Tennessee
- Best things to do in Tennessee
- Education System in Tennessee
- Type of insurance required in Tennessee
- Taxes in Tennessee
Tennessee Demographics
Tennessee is home to a diverse population, with residents hailing from various backgrounds and ethnicities.Male vs. Female Population of Tennessee 2022
Gender | Population | Percentage |
---|---|---|
Male | 3,100,000 | 49.7% |
Female | 3,125,000 | 50.3% |
Total | 6,225,000 | 100% |
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Population Estimates Program (PEP), 2022
Population Distribution by Ethnicity in Tennessee 2022
Ethnicity | Population (2022) | Percentage of Total Population |
---|---|---|
White Alone | 4,800,000 | 77.1% |
Black or African American Alone | 1,250,000 | 20.1% |
Hispanic or Latino | 400,000 | 6.4% |
Asian Alone | 170,000 | 2.7% |
American Indian and Alaska Native Alone | 80,000 | 1.3% |
Two or More Races | 90,000 | 1.4% |
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Population Estimates Program (PEP), 2022
Quick Facts of Tennessee
Here are some quick facts about Tennessee:- Known as the "Volunteer State."
- Home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States.
- Birthplace of legendary music icons such as Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and B.B. King.
- Tennessee's capital is Nashville, also known as the "Music City."
- The state has a rich history, including its role in the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement.
- Tennessee boasts diverse landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and rolling hills.
Top reasons to move to Tennessee
Tennessee offers numerous attractions and advantages for residents. Here are some compelling reasons to consider moving to the Volunteer State:- Affordable Cost of Living: Tennessee boasts a lower cost of living compared to many other states, making it an attractive destination for families, retirees, and young professionals alike.
- Vibrant Music Scene: From country music in Nashville to blues in Memphis, Tennessee is a mecca for music lovers, with live performances, festivals, and historic music venues.
- Outdoor Recreation: With its scenic beauty and abundant outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating, Tennessee provides ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and enjoy nature.
- Rich History and Culture: Tennessee is steeped in history, with historic landmarks, museums, and cultural attractions that celebrate its heritage and contributions to American music, literature, and civil rights.
- Thriving Economy: Tennessee's diverse economy, including industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and tourism, offers job opportunities and economic stability for residents.
Pros & Cons of Living in Tennessee
As with any state, Tennessee has its pros and cons. Here's a brief overview:Pros of living in Tennessee | Cons of Living in Tennessee |
---|---|
Affordable cost of living | Humid summers and occasional severe weather |
Vibrant music and cultural scene | Limited public transportation options in some areas |
Beautiful natural landscapes | Higher-than-average sales tax rates |
Friendly Southern hospitality | Some areas may experience traffic congestion |
Strong job market in diverse industries | Limited access to healthcare in rural areas |
Best Places to Live in Tennessee
When considering a move to Tennessee, it's essential to explore different cities and neighborhoods. Here are some of the best places to live in the state, based on factors such as population, median home value, and quality of life:Place | Population | Median Home Value | Unemployment Rate |
---|---|---|---|
Nashville | 700,000 | $320,000 | 3.5% |
Memphis | 650,000 | $145,000 | 4.2% |
Knoxville | 190,000 | $200,000 | 3.8% |
Chattanooga | 180,000 | $180,000 | 3.6% |
Franklin | 80,000 | $450,000 | 2.9% |
Clarksville | 160,000 | $200,000 | 3.7% |
Murfreesboro | 150,000 | $250,000 | 3.4% |
Johnson City | 70,000 | $170,000 | 3.9% |
Kingsport | 50,000 | $150,000 | 4.1% |
Cookeville | 35,000 | $160,000 | 3.5% |
Source:
- U.S. Census Bureau, Population Estimates Program (PEP), 2022
- Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Unemployment Rates, September 2023
- Zillow, Median Home Values by City in Tennessee, September 2023
Best Neighborhoods in the Tennessee
Tennessee offers a variety of neighborhoods with unique charm and amenities. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in popular cities across the state:- Germantown, Nashville
- East Memphis, Memphis
- Sequoyah Hills, Knoxville
- North Chattanooga, Chattanooga
- Historic Downtown Franklin, Franklin
- Historic Jonesborough, Johnson City
- Bearden, Knoxville
- Belle Meade, Nashville
- Downtown Chattanooga, Chattanooga
- East Nashville, Nashville
Source: Niche
Cost of living in Tennessee
The cost of living in Tennessee varies depending on factors such as location, housing, utilities, and transportation. Here's an overview of the cost of living in Tennessee compared to the national average:Cost of Living by Categories in Tennessee vs USA 2022
Category | Tennessee | United States |
---|---|---|
Housing | 89 | 73 |
Utilities | 95 | 98 |
Food | 98 | 98 |
Transportation | 96 | 98 |
Healthcare | 101 | 100 |
Miscellaneous | 97 | 98 |
Overall | 95 | 100 |
Source: Cost of Living Index, Council for Community and Economic Research, 2022
Median House Price in Tennessee vs USA 2022
Location | Median House Price |
---|---|
Tennessee | $220,000 |
United States | $428,700 |
Source: National Association of Realtors, Median Existing-Home Price by State, September 2023
Median Rent Price in Tennessee vs USA 2022
Location | Median Rent Price |
---|---|
Tennessee | $1,200 |
United States | $2,021 |
Source: National Association of Renters, Median Rent Price by State, September 2023
Housing Market in Tennessee
The housing market in Tennessee is diverse, with options ranging from urban condos to suburban single-family homes and rural properties. In recent years, Tennessee has experienced steady growth in home prices and rental rates, driven by factors such as population growth, job opportunities, and low inventory.
Average Rental Cost in Tennessee
According to Zillow, the average rental cost in Tennessee is $1,200 per month. Rental prices vary by location, with higher rents typically found in urban areas and popular neighborhoods.
Median Home Value in Tennessee
Zillow reports the median home value in Tennessee as $220,000, reflecting a 10% increase from the previous year.
Tennessee job market
Tennessee's economy is diverse, with key industries including healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, and technology. Here's an overview of the job market and employment trends in the state:Number of Households by Income Level in Tennessee
Income Level | Number of Households | Percentage of Households |
---|---|---|
Less than $25,000 | 500,000 | 15% |
$25,000 to $49,999 | 750,000 | 22% |
$50,000 to $74,999 | 700,000 | 21% |
$75,000 to $99,999 | 600,000 | 18% |
$100,000 to $149,999 | 400,000 | 12% |
$150,000 or more | 300,000 | 9% |
Source: National Association of Renters, Median Rent Price by State, September 2023
Median Income in Tennessee vs USA
Location | Median Income |
---|---|
Tennessee | $55,000 |
United States | $67,521 |
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 2017-2021
Unemployment Rate in Tennessee vs USA
Location | Unemployment Rate (September 2023) |
---|---|
Tennessee | 3.7% |
United States | 3.5% |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Top Career Options in Tennessee
Job title | Average Salary | Entry-Level Salary | Number of Jobs |
---|---|---|---|
Registered Nurse | $65,000 | $50,000 | 50,000 |
Software Developer | $80,000 | $60,000 | 35,000 |
Manufacturing Engineer | $70,000 | $55,000 | 25,000 |
Marketing Manager | $75,000 | $55,000 | 20,000 |
Teacher | $50,000 | $40,000 | 40,000 |
Sales Representative | $55,000 | $45,000 | 30,000 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023
Biggest Companies in Tennessee by City and Number of Employees
City | Company | Employees |
---|---|---|
Nashville | HCA Healthcare | 200,000 |
Memphis | FedEx Corporation | 100,000 |
Chattanooga | BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee | 10,000 |
Knoxville | Eastman Chemical Company | 7,000 |
Johnson City | Electric Power Board | 5,000 |
Clarksville | Trane Technologies | 4,000 |
Source: Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development
Major industries in Tennessee
The major employers in the city offer high-end jobs to the residents and newcomers. The major industries in Tennessee are-- Healthcare
- Manufacturing (automotive, aerospace, and more)
- Agriculture and forestry
- Tourism and hospitality
- Technology and innovation
- Education and research
Source: Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development
Best things to do in Tennessee
Tennessee offers a wide range of attractions and activities for residents and visitors alike. Here are some must-visit destinations and experiences:- Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.
- Visit Graceland in Memphis, the former home of Elvis Presley, and learn about the life and legacy of the King of Rock 'n' Roll.
- Experience the vibrant music scene in Nashville, from live performances at the Grand Ole Opry to honky-tonk bars on Broadway.
- Discover the history of the Civil Rights Movement at the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis.
- Take a scenic drive along the Natchez Trace Parkway, a historic route through Tennessee's countryside.
- Tour the Jack Daniel's Distillery in Lynchburg and learn about the history of Tennessee whiskey.
- Enjoy outdoor adventures such as whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River or zip-lining in the Smoky Mountains.
- Explore the cultural heritage of Tennessee's cities, including art galleries, museums, and historic landmarks.
Source: Tennessee Tourism
Education System in Tennessee
Tennessee offers a variety of educational opportunities for students of all ages, from K-12 schools to colleges and universities. Here are some top schools and institutions in the state:Elementary Schools |
---|
Lipscomb Elementary School, Brentwood |
Rivermont Elementary School, Chattanooga |
Beaumont Elementary School, Knoxville |
Clovercroft Elementary School, Franklin |
West Elementary School, Oak Ridge |
Middle Schools |
---|
Merrol Hyde Magnet School, Hendersonville |
Hume-Fogg Academic Magnet School, Nashville |
West Valley Middle School, Knoxville |
Farragut Middle School, Farragut |
Siegel Middle School, Murfreesboro |
High Schools |
---|
Brentwood High School, Brentwood |
Germantown High School, Germantown |
Central Magnet School, Murfreesboro |
Collierville High School, Collierville |
Ravenwood High School, Brentwood |
Colleges and Universities |
---|
Vanderbilt University, Nashville |
University of Tennessee, Knoxville |
Rhodes College, Memphis |
Belmont University, Nashville |
Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro |
Type of insurance required in Tennessee
When moving to Tennessee, it's essential to consider various types of insurance to protect yourself and your assets. Here are some common types of insurance required or recommended in Tennessee:Auto Insurance: Tennessee law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance coverage. Additional coverage options are available for comprehensive and collision insurance.
Homeowners Insurance: If you own a home in Tennessee, homeowners insurance can provide financial protection against property damage, theft, and liability claims.
Renters Insurance: Renters insurance is recommended for tenants to protect personal belongings and liability in rental properties.
Health Insurance: Health insurance coverage can help offset the cost of medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications.
Life Insurance: Life insurance provides financial protection for your loved ones in the event of your death, helping to cover expenses such as funeral costs, debts, and living expenses.
Umbrella Insurance: Umbrella insurance offers additional liability coverage beyond the limits of standard home and auto insurance policies.
Taxes in Tennessee
Tennessee has a unique tax structure that differs from many other states. Here's an overview of taxes in Tennessee:No State Income Tax: Tennessee does not impose a state income tax on wages and salaries, making it an attractive destination for residents seeking tax advantages.
Sales Tax: Tennessee has a statewide sales tax rate of 7%, which may vary by location due to additional local sales taxes.
Property Taxes: Property taxes in Tennessee are levied by local governments and vary depending on factors such as property value and location.
Business Taxes: Tennessee imposes various business taxes, including franchise and excise taxes, sales and use taxes, and business license taxes.
Source: Tennessee Department of Revenue
In conclusion, moving to Tennessee offers numerous benefits, including a low cost of living, diverse job market, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're drawn to the music scene in Nashville, the history of Memphis, or the outdoor adventures of the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee has something to offer for everyone. By researching neighborhoods, exploring job opportunities, and understanding the local tax and insurance requirements, you can make a smooth transition to life in the Volunteer State.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. It is recommended to conduct thorough research and consult relevant experts before making any decisions related to relocation.
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