7 Best Places to Live in Tennessee

The state of Tennessee is home to many greats—Elvis, Memphis barbeque, country and rock and roll—but finding a place to live can be difficult if you don’t know what to look for. Which cities are safest? Are some cities more retiree-friendly than others? Are there great modular home builders?

Whether it’s location, cost of living, or where to find the best barbeque, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best cities Tennessee has to offer!

1. Jackson

• Housing cost to income ratio: 3.52%
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.72%
• Violent crime index: 54
• Nonviolent crime index: 63.8
• Cost of living index: 82.5

Jackson, Tennessee is known as “Hub City” to the locals for its abundance of entertainment, education, and culture. It is halfway between Memphis and Nashville, putting it in a prime position between the two big cities.

Jackson is somewhat conservative politically and keeps its neighborhoods safe and happy by building community relationships. These communities are brought together by things like a year-round farmer’s market and free summer concerts at the Amp and they embrace the arts and culture with live stage performances and art galleries at the Ned R. McWherter West Tennessee Cultural Arts Center.

Excellent schools offer great educational opportunities for your children.  The Jackson-Madison County School System serves more than 13,000 students with 26 campuses. Find educators that offer enriching curriculum. Their mission statement says it all, “Providing equitable options and opportunities in a safe, caring environment to maximize student potential.” Lane College and Union University are two excellent choices for college-bound students.   

You will find Jackson has a vibrant economy supported by healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. Jackson-Madison County School System, Delta Faucet Company, The Kellogg Company, and Stanley Black & Decker offer job prospects.  Healthcare is one of Jackson’s top industries, and there are 14 hospitals in the Jackson area.

Jackson gets about 54 inches of rain, 4 inches of snow, and 213 sunny days per year which makes for hot summers and cold winters. The weather makes it easy to enjoy 20 public parks, eight public educational and recreational facilities, and one public golf course.

There’s plenty to explore here. Check out the Casey Jones Home & Museum. Rusty’s TV & Movie Car Museum homes some interesting finds including some actual and replica cars from The Dukes of Hazzard, Knight Rider, Blues Brothers, Fast & Furious, and more. There are delicious spirits to tempt your palate at Samuel T Bryant Distillery. Try everything from moonshine to vodka and cream liquors. Wine more your thing? The Century Farm Winery is known for its well-balanced wine offerings. It’s always a good time at the Baseball Stadium at Jackson. Watch the Jackson Rockabillys with family and friends. Find everything from antiques to farm adventures in this beautiful part of the state. Ready to make this area your home? Start a new life in a new home in a friendly city or the surrounding suburbs. It will be a worthwhile decision.

2. Johnson City-Bristol

• Housing cost to income ratio: 4.64%
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.46%
• Violent crime index: 27.2
• Nonviolent crime index: 54.5
• Cost of living index: 82

Johnson City and Bristol, the latter being a twin city to Bristol, Virginia on the other side of the state border, make up two of the three cities in the Tri-City area in northeastern Tennessee. This area is moderately conservative and prides itself on the organization and connections in its communities for which it was awarded the National Civic League’s All-American Award. With a variety of amenities, services, employers, and recreation this area is a win-win!

Both cities have a climate of about 44 inches of rain, 11 inches of snow, and 200 sunny days per year. Johnson City knows how to take advantage of this lovely weather with adventures like Tweetsie Trail, a 9.5-mile trail that can be used for walking, running, hiking, and biking; and Tannery Knobs Bike Park, a skills park with trails that lead right into downtown Johnson City.

You can totally fall in love with amazing parks like Winged Deer Park, Buffalo Mountain Park, and Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park. Find what you enjoy with everything from disc golf to hiking and boating. Ride the train, fish, and play at Steele Creek Park. NASCAR fans love catching racing events at the Bristol Motor Speedway.

Bristol brings a more historic outlook to the area with attractions like the Birthplace of Country Music Museum and the Rhythm and Roots Reunion Music Festival that is held every year. Bristol is where you will find the Tennessee Ernie Ford House. Learn more about this man and his contributions to country music and television.

The Johnson City-Bristol area has 7 school districts with many campuses. There are also more than 10 colleges and universities spread across both cities, including East Tennessee State University in Johnson City. Adding to the draw of this area are great hospitals for in-patient and out-patient care. There are about 7 hospitals within driving distance of these two cities and Bristol is home to one of the nation’s best hospitals, the Bristol Regional Medical Center.

Choose from a variety of new homes in the Johnson City-Bristol area with floor plans sure to elevate your quality of life. New homebuilders in the area recognize the wants and needs of today’s modern families.

3. Clarksville

• Housing cost to income ratio: 3.67%
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.01%
• Violent crime index: 35.2
• Nonviolent crime index: 41.2
• Cost of living index: 85.6

Clarksville represents Southern charm. Clarksville leans conservative politically and is great for families of all ages, especially surrounding communities like Hensleytown, Fort Campbell, and Round Pond. Clarksville is about an hour northwest of Nashville along the Kentucky border.

The Monkees’ song, “Last Train to Clarksville”, is not about this inviting city, but there’s plenty to lead you to one of the state’s oldest cities. Clarksville includes a few sites listed on the Tennessee Whiskey Trail and the Tennessee Music Pathways route. You will find delicious spirits at spots like Old Glory Distilling Co. Other greats include the Tennessee Valley Brewing Company, Blackhorse Pub & Brewery, Leatherwood Distillery, Evil Nash Brewing Co., Trazo Meadery, and Beachaven Winery. From small-batch spirits to mead to wine, there is something for every discerning palate. Jimi Hendrix is a marker on the Tennessee Music Pathways as he once lived here.

The location near Fort Campbell boosts the economy. Major employers in the area include the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System, Trane Company, Tennova Healthcare, LG Electronics USA, and Austin Peay State University.

The yearly climate of 51 inches of rain, 5 inches of snow, and 210 sunny days makes it easy to find days to enjoy outdoor activities any day of the year.  Dunbar Cave State Park is a popular attraction with tours and hiking trails. History buffs will enjoy exploring Fort Defiance Civil War Park & Interpretive Center with its exhibits and walking trail. Water recreation in the form of kayaking and fishing happens on the 650+ miles of navigable waterways at Port Royal State Park, Liberty Park, Billy Dunlop Park and more. Locals also love Rotary Park with hike and bike trails, disc golf, a horseshoe pit and more for family fun.

Clarksville is also known for its bustling downtown. Known as “The Franklin” to the locals, the main street of this city is full of locally owned shops and restaurants with a range of cuisines. Delicious eateries like the Mailroom provide amazing cocktails and food. The Mailroom is located in a former U.S. Post Office and Federal Building. Spend some time on the outdoor patio with fire pits sampling some delicious beverages.

Clarksville-Montgomery County School System takes pride in reaching their mission of educating and empowering students to reach their potential. This above average district serves just under 40,000 students. Austin Peay State University and the private North Central Institute are great options for higher education. Get excellent healthcare at Tennova Healthcare Clarksville among the 22 hospitals in and around the city. 

Clarksville is the perfect spot to settle down and find the new home of your dreams. Why not take a look at some of the welcoming new home designs in the area? You will find an abundance of choice to the east of Clarksville. Start your journey to life in a perfect new Tennessee home. 

4. Knoxville

• Housing cost to income ratio: 4.91%
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 2.23%
• Violent crime index: 44.9
• Nonviolent crime index: 81.5
• Cost of living index: 85.5

An hour outside of the Great Smoky Mountains you’ll find Knoxville, Tennessee. Knoxville’s location adds to its unique blend of Southern charm and Appalachian culture and makes for beautiful scenery in every direction.

This city is somewhat politically conservative and is known for its friendly neighborhoods and community events such as music festivals (including performances by the oldest continually performing symphony orchestra in the Southeast), art festivals, and holiday celebrations.

Downtown is home to many restaurants and to historical staples like Civil War museums and the World’s Fair Park with the iconic Sunsphere. Downtown Knoxville claims to be the heart and soul of East Tennessee. Stroll through the 40+ boutiques for fun finds.  With close to 100 restaurants, you’re sure to find some tempting flavors. Be sure to try some oysters at The Brass Pearl or sink your teeth into some wings at Skybox Sports Bar and Grille. This walkable area of town puts a lot at your fingertips within one square mile and within easy access to the University of Tennessee campus.

Get out and enjoy the great weather. Knoxville averages about 50 inches of rain, 6 inches of snow, and 204 sunny days per year. Take the family out to Zoo Knoxville. This premier zoo has plenty of animals and activities. Explore Ijams Nature Center from water and land. Rent a canoe or hike and bike the trails. Of course, bring the pets out to local dog parks and dog-friendly patios. Fido will make lots of friends at Emma Jane Walker Memorial Dog Park, Downtown Dog Park, and Holston River Dog Park to name a few.

With spots like the Tennessee Theater, the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum, and the Knoxville Museum of Art, culture is alive and kicking in Knoxville. Rousing performances, concerts, live music, art galleries, and more will expose you to a variety of entertainment.

Private schools offer enriching curriculum in math and sciences as well as religious affiliation. Along with Knox County School District some other options at your disposal are  the Episcopal School of Knoxville, Webb School of Knoxville, and the L&N Stem Academy. Knoxville is home to the University of Tennessee. Support the Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. This revered university is a major research institution with nationally ranked programs in supply chain management/logistics, accounting, law, social work, nuclear engineers, and printmaking.

Along with excellent shopping and dining, find outstanding services including 9 hospitals in the area. The University of Tennessee Medical Center and Parkwest Medical Center are fully equipped to handle all your medical needs. Major employers in this area are in a variety of industries including health care, manufacturing, and tourism. Look for employment opportunities at the Tennessee Valley Authority, Clayton Homes, Covenant Health, DENSO Manufacturing Tennessee, and the Dollywood Co.

Knoxville is quickly expanding, and many new residents are looking to suburbs like Farragut and Oak Ridge to be their new homes. Knoxville is the complete Tennessee package with a welcoming demeanor. Start your search for a new home in this area today.

5. Memphis

• Housing cost to income ratio: 4.97%
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.31%
• Violent crime index: 85.7
• Nonviolent crime index: 81.1
• Cost of living index: 77.5

Home to some of the most famous origin stories and overflowing with rich history, Memphis is sure to make you feel welcome. The second largest city in Tennessee is located on the Western border along the Mississippi River.

Memphis gets an average of 54 inches of rain, 3 inches of snow, and 218 sunny days per year. Make some memories exploring all the city has to offer including the Memphis Botanic Garden and the Memphis Zoo. One of the largest urban parks in the nation, Shelby Farms Park, offers over 40 miles of trails that allows you to stay active. Hike, bike, run, jog, and horseback ride. Memphis has more than 160 parks for its residents.

This city is known for its part in the Civil Rights Movement and pays tribute to those efforts year-round with numerous museums and installations. Interesting exhibits are found at the National Civil Rights Museum. Explore the Memphis Museum of Science & History, the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, and Memphis Brooks Museum of Art.

Residents are well versed in the music legends that made their way through Memphis over the years and the hustle and bustle on Beale Street is there to prove it. Music halls, Broadway theaters, and original Beale Street shops are just some of the businesses that can be found in the heart of downtown Memphis. Excellent blues music is part of the nightlife in this city. The King of Rock and Roll, Elvis shares his opulent home, Graceland, with 600,000 visitors annually. Graceland has been open to the public for more than 40 years showcasing his extravagant tastes and lifestyle.

Sample Memphis’ famous barbecue at the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Championship, or check out one of the local restaurants around town. It’s not just the barbecue that will get your mouth watering, Memphis has savory and sweet flavors to tantalize your taste buds. Fine dining at Felicia Suzanne’s will reward you with dishes like chicken crepes and duck and mushroom lasagna. Get your macaron fix at 17 Berkshire with its pastel pastries. Of course, great mom and pop eateries offer their share of soul food. Check out Four Way Soul Food. This Southern gem with its delicious meals has fed the likes of MLK Jr., Elvis, and Drake.

Memphis is home to thousands of companies including large and small businesses boosting the economy. Discover some of the major players in the greater Memphis area including FedEx Corporation, Shelby County Schools, state, city, and federal government, Methodist Le Bonheur Health Care, Baptist Memorial Healthcare Corp., and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. With renowned hospitals like St. Jude, you can expect excellent health care in this part of the state.

Memphis has much to offer and is surrounded by great cities such as Germantown, Collierville, and Arlington that provide a range of entertainment. If you prefer to live on the outskirts in one of the welcoming suburbs, the search starts here.

6. Chattanooga

• Housing cost to income ratio: 5.26%
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 1.57%
• Violent crime index: 50.3
• Nonviolent crime index: 83
• Cost of living index: 83.8

Chattanooga sits in southeast Tennessee, along the Georgia border. There are four highways that run through Chattanooga making for convenient travel to and from the city. With a booming economy, find employment opportunities from some of the major employers in the industries of healthcare, government, retail, education, and more. Some of the key players in the area include BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, Amazon, Covenant Transport and Volkswagen Group of America.

Known as the “Scenic City” because of its beautiful mountain ranges and ridges, Chattanooga is the perfect place for outdoor lovers to call home. This city gets an average of 51 inches of rain, 2 inches of snow, and 207 sunny days per year, and residents know how to make the most out of their ideal weather. Imagine hang-gliding, mountain climbing, fishing, hiking, and caving expeditions in the gorgeous Smoky Mountains and Tennessee River region. Kayaking, rafting, and horseback riding are ideal ways to spend your free time.

Chattanooga’s riverfront plays a big role in its art and entertainment scene with the Riverwalk and Bluff View Art District providing local shops and restaurants for residents to enjoy. These areas are connected by four main bridges—the Walnut Street Bridge, the Market Street Bridge, the Olgiati Bridge, and the Veterans Memorial Bridge—that allow residents to walk rather than drive to their favorite stores. Delicious restaurants offer a variety of food from seafood to Southern comfort dishes. Some local favorites include Uncle Larry’s Restaurant and Bridgeman’s Chophouse.

There are 19 hospitals in the Chattanooga area as well as public schools so families can feel confident, they will have everything they need no matter which neighborhood they live in. Private schools in the area have religious affiliations or preparatory programs to further ensure your children’s success. The Hamilton County School District serves approximately 45,000 students.

Chattanooga has its share of unique activities including its Incline Railway with stunning views after your ride up Lookout Mountain. You will be mesmerized by the Tennessee Aquarium and its large tanks of fish and other aquatic life. History buffs will want to spend some time at the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park learning more of the rich Civil War history in this area through tours and reenactments.  For foodies to festival lovers, there is something in Chattanooga to pique your interests.

Considering a move to this area? Why not start your search here to find the ideal new home in Chattanooga or one of its friendly suburbs. With everything from single-family homes to townhomes, there is a floor plan sure to fit your lifestyle. Make the move and see what all the fuss is about!

7. Nashville

• Housing cost to income ratio: 5.12%
• Average childcare cost to income ratio: 2.18%
• Violent crime index: 54.6
• Nonviolent crime index: 53.3
• Cost of living index: 101.4

It is no surprise that Nashville, the state capital and largest city in Tennessee, is one of the best places to live! This moderately liberal city brings a lot to the table, whether it’s stunning scenery, exuberant nightlife, or family-friendly environments.

The diverse economy is supported by the music, healthcare, tourism, and government industries. Major employers include HCA Healthcare, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Sony Music Nashville, Gaylord Opryland Resort, Nissan North America, and the state of Tennessee. You will also find excellent health care at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital and TriStar Centennial Medical Center.

Nashville has a strong public school system, Metro Nashville Public Schools, which serves over 80,000 students. There are also several private schools in the area, including Montgomery Bell Academy, Harpeth Hall School, and Ensworth School. Find a variety of higher education opportunities at Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Lipscomb University. Tennessee State University, and Fisk University.

Music City has its share of fun things to do. Visit the Grand Ole Opry, the Johnny Cash Museum, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Catch a show at Ryland Auditorium or the Bluebird Café. Broadway is home to several honky-tonks with live music. Check out a re-creation of the Parthenon or watch the Nashville Predators play hockey. Stroll through the Cheekwood Estate and Gardens. There are also great greenways for hikers and bikers.

A growing culinary scene features restaurants to tempt your taste buds. The Nashville Farmers Market allows you to create your own farm to table experience. Southern cuisine is always available with fried chicken, hot chicken, barbecue, and biscuits and gravy. Some of the more popular spots to try include Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, Husk, Etch, Rolf and Daughters and The Catbird Seat.

Whether you are a music lover, a foodie, or just looking for a fun place to visit, Nashville has something to offer everyone. This area gets about 49 inches of rain, 4 inches of snow, and 208 sunny days per year which makes each season distinct and unique. Families looking to move to Nashville have excellent new home communities and great schools.

Nashville is a bustling city and is a major tourist attraction. Enjoy some of the amazing suburbs near the city, including Nolensville, Gallatin, and Hendersonville that are close enough to the city to enjoy all the benefits, but far enough outside to avoid the hustle and bustle of tourists. Start your quest here to find the ideal new home that reflects your lifestyle in the Nashville area.

This “best places to live” list was compiled using statistics for cost of living, average housing costs, average childcare costs, and crime indices.