A cool city is getting even more popular
In the last few years, people have been moving out of urban areas in droves. Seattle, New York, Los Angeles, and DC are all losing residents to places like Orlando, Austin, and Nashville, and even more people realize they want to live in Knoxville for this exact reason.
People want to move to Knoxville and nearby cities in Tennessee because:
- The cost of living is low
- No state income tax
- A growing economy
- Lots of history and culture
- Unparalleled natural beauty
But there’s more that’s attractive about Tennessee. Let’s talk more specifically about some of the best reasons to live in Knoxville.
Knoxville fast facts
Population (2020): 190,740
Distance from:
- Nashville: 3hr
- Atlanta: 3hr 15min
- Charlotte: 4hr
Nearest airport:
- McGhee Tyson Airport: 20min
Median income (2020):
- Individual: $23,898
- Household: $41,598
County: Knox
Type of location: Dense Suburban
Pros and cons when you live in Knoxville
Pro: Cost of living
The cost of living in Knoxville is 18% lower than the national average. A few of the specifics:
- Housing is 29% lower
- Utilities are 4% lower
- Groceries are 13% lower
If you want to mitigate rising inflation as much as possible, move to a lower cost of living area.
Con: Crime
Unfortunately, crime is higher here than the national average. Both violent crime and property crime are double most of the rest of the country.
Pro: Lots of immersive nature
The Smoky Mountains are an immense and beautiful experience just 34 miles from Knoxville. People come from all over the country to explore the lush wilderness for good reason. This is why Knoxville is called “The Gateway to the Smoky Mountains.”
Con: Quality of life
Because the cost of living is low, that also means household income tends to be low. Health trends and obesity also tend to be disappointing.
Pro: Tennessee sports
If you love sports, you’ll love living in Knoxville. It’s ranked #2 in the country for college sports.
Con: Allergies and hot summers
Knoxville, Tennessee is deep in the south. This makes the summers hot and humid. The surrounding nature may also be an allergy problem for those with sensitivity.
You’ll be glad you live in Knoxville
Knoxville is one of the best places to live in Tennessee. It’s a top runner up next to Nashville, which is receiving an even bigger influx of people. If you want to find the best city in Tennessee that’s not experiencing severe growing pains, consider Knoxville.
The beauty of the Smokies is unparalleled and, during uncertain economic times, low cost of living is important. Especially with the rise of remote work, lower local salaries may be avoidable.
Any cons of living in this city are considerably outweighed by the benefits.
Find an off-market property to buy in Knoxville with Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty TN
If you’re looking for a home in the Knoxville area or surrounding cities, they can be tough to find. A lot of homebuyers get the best deals buying unlisted properties. But you have to know where to find them.
Check out our exclusive pocket listing website to see homes coming on the market soon. If you’re quick, you can get an offer made before the competition. If you have other questions about the local real estate market or living in Knoxville, give our office a call at 865-365-1670.
