Having lived in Tennessee for 10+ years, I’ve come to appreciate its beautiful nature, great music, and delightful food scene. It’s a place where I simply can’t imagine living elsewhere. For those considering moving here, I want to share some Honest Pros & Cons to give you a better understanding of what life in this vibrant state entails.
Without further ado, let’s dive into these insights, hoping they’ll be helpful. Whether you’re new to the area or thinking about moving, you’re welcome here, and I highly suggest using this as a handy resource. If you ever find yourself with questions or comments, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to help or offer a Local’s Tip.
This state is too full of life to ever get bored, and while there are a few disadvantages, the pros far outweigh them. Welcome to Tennessee – a place I recommend to all my friends and to anyone looking for a change.
Living in Tennessee
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Neutral Considerations for Living in Tennessee
The Political Climate
In discussing The Political Climate within Tennessee, it’s crucial to note the current landscape as Beth, a commenter on a recent article, suggested. This piece, which aims to stay continually updated through the comments it receives, highlights the political situation in Tennessee as worth noting.
The state currently sees a super majority of very conservative Republicans in both houses of the Tennessee legislature, coupled with a conservative Republican governor. There’s no doubt this setup won’t see change any time soon, making it a real positive or negative, depending on several factors. In any case, it’s certainly something to note for anyone considering Tennessee as their home.
This dynamic political climate could pull directly from a comment to become a key consideration for potential residents, painting a vivid picture of what living in Tennessee might entail.
Perks of Moving to Tennessee
#1. Outdoor Recreation
In the realm of Outdoor Recreation, it’s impossible to deny that Tennessee is a beautiful state blessed with varied landscapes and stunning nature. From the famous Appalachian Mountains in the east to the Mississippi River in the west, locals are truly spoiled for choice.
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Whether it’s hiking, climbing, camping, kayaking, canoeing, or caving, there’s something to scratch every nature enthusiast’s itch for almost all months of the year. Every corner of the state has something interesting to offer, but the star of the show is undoubtedly the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the country.
Its unparalleled outdoor recreation opportunities, top-notch hiking trails, campgrounds, breathtaking waterfalls, and diverse wildlife put an adventure right at your fingertips.
#2. The Low Cost of Living in Tennessee
The Low Cost of Living in Tennessee stands out as an affordable beacon for anyone considering a move due to being tired of working long hours just to barely afford a downtown apartment and other basic living expenses. It’s this affordability that becomes a huge factor in the decision to relocate.
After several months of research, I landed in the Volunteer State, which is rated as the 6th most affordable state to live in. The reasonable home prices, which are 20% lower than the national average, along with low property taxes—some of the lowest in the country—make it significantly easier to enjoy daily life.
The overall cost of everyday essentials, like groceries, utilities, and transportation, are perks that just keep adding up.
#3. Affordable Homes & Low Property Taxes
Affordable Homes & Low Property Taxes are frequently mentioned when discussing the benefits of buying a house in Tennessee. It’s relatively affordable; at the time of writing, the median home prices stand at about $310K, significantly compared to the national average.
This makes it hard not to see why first-time home buyers or those looking to start a family are moving to Tennessee. Likewise, property taxes are a crucial consideration, with the state’s real estate tax rate at 0.71%, ranking as the 15th lowest in the country.
This makes owning a home a more attainable possibility, a claim that can’t be said for many states where median home prices soar to $1 million.
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#4. Mild winters
Mild winters in Tennessee are a standout feature, especially for someone like me who’s not a big winter person. If you’re used to older, tougher winters or if you’re not a fan of long, cold, gray winter days that seem to drag on for months, you’ll find one of the biggest perks of living in Tennessee to be its mild winters.
Based on personal experience, whether you choose to live in the western part of the state with its consistently mild winters or the eastern part, near the Appalachian Mountains, where you’re a stranger to neither occasional snowfall nor a more prolonged winter season—ideal for snow sports enthusiasts—the Great Smoky Mountains offer their fair share of snow and become a playground for those who love skiing or snowboarding.
If useful, here’s a summary of typical winter temperatures by region:
Memphis (West Tennessee):
- December: Average highs of approximately 52°F (11°C), with lows near 36°F (2°C)
- January: Average highs of about 48°F (9°C), with lows close to 32°F(0°C)
- February: Average highs of roughly 53°F (12°C), with lows around 35°F (2°C)
Nashville (Middle Tennessee):
- December: Highs typically reach 49°F (9°C), with lows at 32°F (0°C)
- January: Highs generally at 45°F (7°C), with lows dipping to 28°F (-2°C)
- February: Highs commonly up to 51°F (11°C), with lows at 32°F (0°C)
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Knoxville (East Tennessee):
- December: Peak temperatures near 48°F (9°C), with minimums around 30°F (-1°C)
- January: Maximums close to 45°F (7°C), with minimums near 28°F (-2°C)
- February: Peak temperatures approximately 51°F (11°C), with lows about 31°F (-1°C)
Chattanooga (Southeast Tennessee):
- December: Average highs reaching 50°F (10°C), with average lows at 32°F (0°C)
- January: Typical highs of 47°F (8°C), with lows around 29°F (-2°C)
- February: Common highs up to 54°F (12°C), with lows about 33°F (1°C)
Mild winters are both an advantage and a disadvantage, given the oppressively hot and humid summers that follow, and Tennessee is no exception. We’ll cover the summer weather shortly to give a complete picture of what to expect climate-wise throughout the year.
#5. The Food Scene is Great
One of the biggest perks of living in Tennessee is undoubtedly the access to great cuisine. With Nashville often hailed as one of the best food cities in America, the state’s pride and joy in its traditional, southern-inspired cuisine—from drool-inducing fried chicken to BBQ—cannot be overstated.
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However, an influx of newcomers has introduced a variety to the state’s already thriving food scene, with a notable shift towards farm-to-table dining in the past few years. This movement is a reflection of Tennessee’s rich culinary heritage, blending creativity with a unique influence from varying cultures.
From incredible restaurants in large cities like Memphis and Chattanooga to beloved local gems in small towns, whether it’s hole-in-the-wall spots or innovative, high-end restaurants, Tennessee’s food scene is a celebration for anyone hungry for great food.
#6. Perks of Moving to Tennessee
No State Income Tax on your Earnings is a considerable advantage to further sweeten the deal of living in Tennessee. Being one of the 9 states in the country that don’t have a state income tax, Tennessee stands out for those looking to maximize their paycheck.
Moving from states like New York, Oregon, or California, where you could expect to keep nearly 10% more of your paycheck if your salary remains the same, is a significant shift.
Not having to pay state income tax is a perk that can’t be overstated—it’s a huge relief that allows residents to keep more of their paycheck for the little things that make everyday life more enjoyable, such as concerts with friends or eating out.
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#7. The Live Music Scene is Top Notch
The Live Music Scene in Tennessee is undeniably Top Notch, with its famous city, Nashville, dubbed Music City. It’s said you can’t throw a stick without hitting a musician—belting out a Taylor Swift tune, for better or worse.
Nashville’s music culture offers an introduction to the industry’s storied past, with legends still living and making history in Tennessee. But it’s not just about visiting; living here lets you take advantage of this incredible perk. Nashville may get the biggest shout out, but Memphis holds its ground as the birthplace of rock and roll and blues.
The state can lay claim to being the birthplace of genres that have shaped the music country, blues, and rock and roll. With its fair share of concerts, those choosing to move to Tennessee will find that date nights often revolve around music venues, adding to the fun of living in this vibrant state.
Cons of Living in Tennessee
#1. The Crime Rate is High
Addressing the Crime Rate being High is crucial in our list of pros and cons for moving to Tennessee. To be honest, it’s like ripping the band-aid right off: the state has one of the highest crime rates per capita in the nation.
A recent study ranked it as the 3rd most dangerous state in the country, with violent crimes and murders leading the charge. Furthering this claim, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports Tennessee as having the 7th highest homicide rate. Despite sensational headlines, it’s worth denying that certain areas of the state are best avoided.
Before being alarmed by high crime rates upon moving to Tennessee, I decided to reach out to a coworker for advice. The majority of violent crime is committed by violent people against others in their circle, not Everyday Joes, suggesting that living here isn’t as risky as one might think, certainly not a risky stretch of the imagination.
#2. Low Wages & High Poverty Rate
In Tennessee, the Low Wages & High Poverty Rate are intertwined challenges. Despite being a state with one of the lowest wages in the country and no official minimum wage law beyond the current federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, many find it hard to afford and support themselves adequately.
According to MIT, the actual living wage for a single adult in Davidson County, the second most populous county in the state, is a whopping $18.35—a stark contrast to the minimum wage, even with the state’s relatively low cost of living. Many folks live paycheck-to-paycheck or struggle to survive on low wages, which shouldn’t surprise anyone with its 12th highest poverty rate in the nation.
The drill is clear: Don’t move here without a well-paying job lined up beforehand. Living the dream might be more feasible for those who work remotely and are paid higher wages.
#3. Low Life Expectancy
Low Life Expectancy is a sad stat to report for Tennessee, with a life expectancy ranked as the 5th lowest in the country at 76 years old. It’s unfortunate that moving to Tennessee means coming face-to-face with lifestyles that contribute to this statistic, including a sedentary lifestyle and poor diets, which are common in the state.
This contributes to Tennessee having the 4th highest obesity rates in the nation. Moreover, access to healthcare varies across the state, with rural areas often being under-served and in lack of access to essential medical services. Efforts to address low life expectancy are a complex issue, with complicated factors at play.
Addressing the core issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes proper healthcare, education, and social services engagement. It’s a long road to radical change, but I remain hopeful for a better future. In the present, it’s certainly worth consideration.
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#4. Terrible Infrastructure
Terrible Infrastructure seems to be something everyone loves to gripe about, especially when it comes to the state’s traffic and infrastructure. In Tennessee, the road infrastructure could almost qualify as a level of Dante’s inferno, representing one of the biggest disadvantages of living in the state.
With Tennessee going through unprecedented growth over the better half of a decade, the infrastructure is not keeping up with the influx of people moving to the area. In terms of improvements, there seems to be plenty of ideas tossed around, yet nothing changes. Cities continue to sprawl with planning remaining car-centric, without a focus on improving the current infrastructure.
#5. Summer Heat & Humidity
Summer Heat & Humidity in Tennessee, like in many southern states, means that summer—with its heat and humidity—practically lasts 9 months, or so the jokes go among those living in Tennessee. It’s tough during the spring and summer months.
Expect to sweat daily from May through October the moment you step outside. Summer high temperatures average around 90°F in western and central Tennessee, and about 85°F in eastern Tennessee, with the state’s average humidity rate sitting at 69.4%.
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This humidity is especially bad for home owners, as it causes mold in basements. When I first moved to Tennessee, a huge problem with bugs led me to learn that a damp basement was the culprit.
#6. Allergies Suck
Allergies Suck, and after 10 years of living in Tennessee, I can’t get used to the pollen that pops up every spring around April like clockwork. I wheeze through the month, and I’m not the only one. Tennessee ranks as the 4th worst state for allergy sufferers, making those prone to allergies arm themselves with an arsenal of medications.
Before moving to Tennessee, I had to take allergy medicine daily. It’s not just the pollen; mold spores from decomposing leaves in the fall get me the most. Many folks here seem to suffer the worst in spring, making allergies a significant consideration for anyone thinking of calling Tennessee home.
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#7. Moving to Tennessee? Brace for Bugs
Moving to Tennessee? Brace for Bugs—if you can’t stand the sight of bugs, you might want to think twice about moving. Tennessee is notorious for having one of the worst cockroach problems in the country. I recently spoke with an exterminator who comes out 1-2 times per year and mentioned that bugs are just a part of daily life in Tennessee.
The list of culprits spans the gamut from the infamous brown recluse spider to cockroaches and stink bugs. Factoring a budget for an annual exterminator visit once a year is almost a must when living in Tennessee. I’ve learned to spray around the border of my house to keep the crawlers at bay. In any case, adjusting to the bugs was a huge adjustment for me.
Comparison of the Pros & Cons of Living in Tennessee
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Scenic beauty of the state | Sky-high crime rate |
| Low cost of living in Tennessee | Summer heat and humidity |
| Mild winters | Embarrassingly low wages |
| Affordable homes + low property taxes | Low life expectancy |
| Great food scene | Terrible infrastructure |
| No state income taxes for residents of Tennessee | Allergies |
| Live music scene | Bugs when moving to Tennessee |
| Festivals galore |
FAQs
Is Tennessee a good place to live?
The decision ultimately rests with you. Having called Tennessee my home for a decade, I have no immediate intentions of relocating. However, I’ve known others who found that it wasn’t the right fit for them after just a couple of years.
It’s important to carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of living in Tennessee, aligning them with your own preferences and lifestyle, to see if it suits you. Keep in mind, I’m always here to help. Feel free to drop your queries or thoughts below, and I’ll gladly share my insights.
Is Tennessee a good place to retire?
Truthfully, the appeal varies by location. Tennessee’s attractive cost of living and the affordability of housing, coupled with minimal property taxes, are significant factors for those pondering retirement in the state. However, concerns such as elevated rates of violent crime and a lower-than-average life expectancy underscore the importance of weighing the benefits against the drawbacks before deciding to retire in Tennessee.
Like any major life choice, there will be aspects you’re enthusiastic about and others you’re prepared to accept. Consider this piece as a helpful guide to begin your deliberation.
Is Tennessee a tax friendly state?
Indeed, Tennessee stands out as a tax-beneficial state. With its overall affordable living expenses, absence of state income tax, and notably low property taxes, relocating to Tennessee is unlikely to weigh heavily on your finances in terms of taxation.
Is weed legal in Tennessee?
Somewhat, yet not entirely. In Tennessee, marijuana with a THC content exceeding 0.3% remains prohibited. However, the state has legalized the farming of hemp, defined as Cannabis sativa with a THC concentration below 0.3%. Essentially, this translates to Tennessee predominantly permitting only CBD.
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