Why moving to Tennessee: No state income tax. Affordable cost of living. Diverse natural landscapes. Thriving music and arts scene. Strong job market. Southern hospitality. Vibrant cultural festivals. Excellent education opportunities. Mild climate. Rich historical sites.
No state income tax
Moving to Tennessee is attractive because the state does not impose a state-level income tax on personal income, although it does have a flat 1 to 2% tax rate on income earned from interest and dividends. This makes Tennessee one of the states with the Lowest Taxes, potentially benefiting individuals and businesses by reducing their tax burden.
Affordable cost of living
Tennessee offers an affordable cost of living, with overall costs 10% lower than the national average, including housing 18% lower, utilities 8% lower, and significant reductions in food, healthcare, and transportation costs. The state's low property taxes, no state income tax, and reasonable real estate prices make it an attractive option for those seeking to stretch their dollar further. For more detailed information and to calculate your expenses, visit the RentCafe Cost of Living Calculator.
Diverse natural landscapes
Tennessee offers a diverse range of natural landscapes, including the Appalachian Temperate Rainforest, the Cumberland Plateau, Karst Caves and Sinkholes, Highland Rim Oak Forests, and the Gulf Coastal Alluvial Plains, each supporting a unique array of wildlife and ecosystems. To learn more about these habitats and their ecological significance, you can explore more details on the Tennessee's Wildlife Habitats page. These varying environments play crucial roles in sustaining the area's rich biodiversity.
Thriving music and arts scene
Tennessee offers a thriving music and arts scene, with roots in Country, Bluegrass, Blues, Southern Gospel, and Rock 'n' Roll, and a vibrant cultural landscape that includes iconic venues like the Grand Ole Opry and Beale Street. Additionally, it boasts a rich history of arts education and diverse artistic heritage. For more information, visit the Tennessee History website to explore the state's rich musical and cultural legacy.
Strong job market
Tennessee offers a strong job market, with an unemployment rate of 3.3% in October 2024, significantly lower than the national rate of 4.1%. The state has seen notable job growth, particularly in the education and health services sector, with a total increase of 45,200 nonfarm jobs over the past year. For more detailed information, you can visit the official Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development website.
Southern hospitality
Moving to Tennessee is appealing due to its rich tradition of Southern Hospitality, which emphasizes kindness, respect, and a strong sense of community, making visitors and residents feel welcome and part of the family through warm greetings, engaging conversations, and generous hosting. For more insights into this delightful way of life, take a look at the Art of Southern Hospitality, where you'll discover the heartwarming nuances of East Tennessee's lifestyle.
Vibrant cultural festivals
Tennessee offers a rich cultural experience with numerous vibrant festivals, such as the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, Riverbend Festival, and Tin Pan South, which celebrate music, arts, and local culture, making it an ideal place for those who love diverse and lively events. These festivals showcase the state's deep musical heritage and provide endless entertainment options throughout the year. For more details on the wonderful celebrations and festivities that embody the spirit of Tennessee, you can explore the full range available at the iExplore website.
Excellent education opportunities
Tennessee offers excellent education opportunities, with over 1 million students enrolled in public schools and a high school graduation rate of 89.5%. The state is dedicated to enhancing postsecondary education and career readiness through initiatives like the "Drive to 55" and the Tennessee Promise scholarship program. To learn more about the diverse educational landscape in this region, visit the Tennessee National website for an overview of schools and universities.
Mild climate
Tennessee offers a mild climate characterized by warm, humid summers and mild winters, with temperatures varying by elevation but generally remaining moderate. This climate makes it an attractive location for those seeking a temperate environment. For more detailed information about the state's climate, you can visit the Tennessee Climatology page by East Tennessee State University.
Rich historical sites
Tennessee offers a rich historical experience with numerous historic sites, including the Rocky Mount State Historic Site, Andrew Jackson's Hermitage, the Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site, and the well-preserved town of Jonesborough. These locations provide a deep dive into the state's significant historical events and figures. For those interested in exploring the full spectrum of these fascinating landmarks, the Ultimate Tennessee Road Trip for History Buffs is an invaluable resource for planning your journey through the state's vibrant past.