Tennessee is a good place to live if you want lower living costs, a growing job market, and plenty of things to do. The state has no state income tax, housing costs less than in many parts of the country, and cities like Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga continue to grow.
Still, Tennessee is not the right fit for everyone. Some areas have high crime rates. Strong storms and tornadoes are common, and the state has no ocean beaches.
Whether Tennessee is a good choice depends on where you live and what matters most to you.
Lower Living Costs Help Stretch Your Budget
One reason many people move to Tennessee is affordability. Housing, utilities, transportation, and many daily expenses cost less than the national average.
Buying a home is often easier here than in many other states. Rent is also lower in many cities, giving families and first-time buyers more options.
Many Tennessee households earn more than the national median household income. Lower living costs combined with solid incomes can leave more money for savings and other expenses.
A Growing Job Market
Tennessee has added thousands of jobs in recent years. Growth has been strong in healthcare, construction, manufacturing, technology, and energy.
Healthcare is one of the state's biggest employers. Construction continues to grow as new homes and businesses are built. Technology companies are adding jobs, and the energy industry is investing in cleaner power and stronger security systems.
This mix of industries gives job seekers more choices than states that depend on only one major employer.
No State Income Tax
Tennessee does not collect state income tax.
That means you keep more of every paycheck. Many people use those savings to build an emergency fund, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
The state's tax policy has helped attract both businesses and new residents.
Good Schools and Well-Known Hospitals
Tennessee is home to several respected colleges and universities. These include Vanderbilt University, the University of Tennessee, Belmont University, Lipscomb University, Union University, and the University of Memphis.
Healthcare is stronger in larger cities than in many rural areas. Hospitals such as Vanderbilt University Medical Center have earned a strong reputation, though the state's overall healthcare ranking is lower than many others.
Where you live can make a big difference in the care you can access.
Homeownership Costs Less
Many buyers move to Tennessee for more affordable housing. You can find everything from city condos to suburban neighborhoods and rural homes.
Property taxes are another advantage. Tennessee's property tax rate is much lower than the national average. Lower taxes can reduce the long-term cost of owning a home or investment property.
Home prices vary across the state. Memphis remains one of the most affordable markets. Nashville and Murfreesboro usually have higher prices as demand continues to grow. Comparing local housing markets is more useful than looking at statewide averages alone.
The table below shows how housing prices in some cities stack up against the rest of the country:
Source: 2026 data from Zillow.com
Where You Live Matters
Every part of Tennessee offers something different. Your experience will depend on the city or town you choose.
Nashville
Nashville is Tennessee's largest city and the center of the state's music industry. It is home to nearly 700,000 people and continues to attract new residents and businesses.
The city is known for places like the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the Johnny Cash Museum. Beyond music, Nashville offers a strong job market, major sports teams, restaurants, and a busy downtown.
Chattanooga
Chattanooga sits along the Tennessee River near the Appalachian Mountains. It blends city life with easy access to the outdoors.
You can hike at Lookout Mountain, visit Ruby Falls, explore Rock City, or walk and bike along the Tennessee Riverwalk. The city is a popular choice for people who enjoy an active lifestyle.
Knoxville
Knoxville is the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States.
The city offers both outdoor recreation and everyday conveniences. Popular attractions include Market Square, the Sunsphere, the Tennessee Theatre, and Ijams Nature Center. Many residents enjoy spending weekends hiking, camping, or exploring the nearby mountains.
Memphis
Memphis sits along the Mississippi River in southwest Tennessee. It is known for its music, history, and food.
The city is famous for barbecue, soul food, and landmarks tied to blues and rock 'n' roll. Outdoor spaces like Tom Lee Park and Big River Crossing give residents easy access to the riverfront.
Safety Depends on the Community
Safety is one of the biggest factors to think about before moving to Tennessee.
Some cities and neighborhoods have much higher crime rates than others. Memphis has seen increases in both violent crime and property crime in recent years. Other communities, including Nolensville and Signal Mountain, report much lower crime levels.
Looking at neighborhood crime data before you move can help you find an area that fits your comfort level.
The Beach Is a Long Drive
Tennessee is a landlocked state. If you enjoy spending weekends at the beach, you will need to travel.
Popular Gulf Coast destinations such as Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Pensacola Beach, and Destin are about six to nine hours away, depending on where you live in Tennessee.
For many residents, having a reliable car makes those trips much easier.
Severe Weather Is Part of Life
Tennessee experiences strong thunderstorms, tornadoes, heavy rain, and flooding during parts of the year.
Spring is usually the busiest tornado season, though severe storms can happen at other times. Heavy rain can also lead to flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas.
Many residents stay prepared by following local weather alerts and having an emergency plan ready.
Community Is Part of Everyday Life
Tennessee is known as the Volunteer State. The nickname comes from its history of military service, though the spirit of helping others is still easy to find today.
Many nonprofits welcome volunteers across the state. Groups like Hands On Nashville, Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, United Way of Tennessee, and the Humane Society of Memphis and Shelby County support local communities through food programs, education, disaster relief, and animal care.
For many people, getting involved is one way to meet neighbors and feel at home.
Music Shapes Tennessee's Identity
Music is part of daily life across Tennessee.
Nashville is known around the world as Music City. Country music is at the heart of its identity, though you can also find rock, blues, gospel, jazz, and many other styles. Music Row, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and live venues across the city keep the local music scene active throughout the year.
Memphis has its own rich music history. Blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll all have deep roots there, making the city a popular stop for music fans.
Good Food Is Easy to Find
Food is another reason many people enjoy living in Tennessee.
Nashville is famous for hot chicken, and Memphis is known for barbecue. Across the state, you'll also find Southern comfort food, family-owned restaurants, and newer farm-to-table dining.
Whether you prefer casual restaurants or local favorites, there are plenty of choices in both large cities and smaller towns.
Moving Your Vehicle to Tennessee
If you've decided Tennessee is the right place to call home, you'll probably want your vehicle there when you arrive.
Whether you're commuting through Nashville, exploring the Great Smoky Mountains, spending weekends in Chattanooga, or visiting Memphis for its food and music, having your own car makes it easier to enjoy everything Tennessee has to offer.
AmeriFreight Auto Transport helps coordinate vehicle shipments through licensed carriers across the country. Customer service agents can help arrange transport that fits your moving schedule while helping you avoid a long-distance drive, severe weather, and extra wear on your vehicle.
U.S. News & World Report and Move.org have recognized AmeriFreight Auto Transport among the nation's top car shipping companies in 2026.
Get your free, no-obligation Tennessee car shipping quote today!
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