I fell hard for East Tennessee during my road trip last summer. While most people only know Gatlinburg and the Smokies, I discovered there’s this whole other side to the region that just feels real. Picture mountain towns where neighbors bring you homemade biscuits and cities where you can hike before your morning meetings.
After cruising through every valley and mountain pass, I’ve found the best places in East Tennessee where you could build an amazing life. From Johnson City, where craft breweries meet mountain biking trails, to Oak Ridge, where smart people do incredible things (yes, that’s where they split the atom), these 16 spots show why East Tennessee hits different. If you’re dreaming of mountain views with a side of Southern charm, this list might just change your life.
Most Awesome Places to Live in East Tennessee in 2025
Looking for the best places to live in East Tennessee in 2025? Murfreesboro offers a growing economy, excellent schools, and a suburban feel. Brentwood is known for its upscale homes, top-tier education, and beautiful parks. Knoxville blends city convenience with outdoor adventures and a vibrant cultural scene. Spring Hill provides a family-friendly environment with affordable housing and strong community ties. Whether you seek luxury, affordability, or urban excitement, these are some of the best places to call home in East Tennessee.
- Best for college town vibe: Murfreesboro
- Best for natural beauty: Knoxville
- Best for upscale suburban living: Brentwood
- Best for small-town feel: Spring Hill
- Best for safety and upscale amenities: Germantown
- Best for outdoor adventures: Chattanooga
- Best for waterfront living: Mount Juliet
- Best for historical significance: Johnson City
- Best for tranquil lifestyle: Maryville
- Best for modern comfort: Collierville
- Best for tourist activities: Gatlinburg
- Best for waterfront relaxation: Hendersonville
1. Franklin
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,500 – $4,800
- 🌟 Unique Features: Historic downtown, live music, top-rated schools
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & fall 🌸🍂
- 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👨👩👧👦, history buffs 🏛️, professionals 💼
A perfect blend of history, charm, and modern convenience, Franklin is one of East Tennessee’s most desirable places to call home. Its Main Street, lined with historic buildings and boutique shops, feels like a scene from a movie, while its thriving economy and top-rated schools make it ideal for families and professionals alike.
Franklin isn’t just about Southern charm—it has a strong cultural scene, with live music, art galleries, and food festivals filling the calendar year-round. Locals love the abundance of green spaces, from walking trails to scenic parks perfect for weekend picnics.
With a low crime rate, awelcoming community, and a quick drive to Nashville, Franklin offers small-town warmth with big-city perks. Whether you’re after a family-friendly environment, career opportunities, or a laid-back lifestyle with all the conveniences of modern living, Franklin delivers in every way.
2. Murfreesboro
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,800 – $3,500
- 🌟 Unique Features: Growing economy, affordable housing, university town
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round ☀️
- 🏆 Perfect For: Students 🎓, young professionals 💻, budget-conscious renters 💰
Murfreesboro may be known for its college-town energy, thanks to Middle Tennessee State University, but there’s so much more to this vibrant city. Its rich Civil War history blends seamlessly with modern amenities, making it one of the most exciting places to live in East Tennessee.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring the Stones River Greenway, while history buffs can visit the Stones River National Battlefield. The city’s economy is booming, offering job opportunities in education, healthcare, and technology. With an affordable cost of living and highly rated schools, it’s a great spot for families looking to settle down.
Murfreesboro’s lively downtown features trendy restaurants, local breweries, and family-friendly events, creating a strong sense of community. Whether you’re drawn to its historic roots, outdoor recreation, or thriving social scene, Murfreesboro is the perfect mix of small-town charm and big-city convenience.
3. Knoxville
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,700 – $3,800
- 🌟 Unique Features: College town vibe, outdoor recreation, vibrant arts scene
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Fall 🍁
- 🏆 Perfect For: College students 📚, outdoor lovers 🏞️, foodies 🍔
Knoxville is where city life meets outdoor adventure. Nestled along the Tennessee River and just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains, this vibrant city offers the best of both worlds—bustling urban life and easy access to nature.
Downtown Knoxville is packed with energy, featuring Market Square’s lively restaurants, historic theaters, and a strong arts and music scene. Sports fans will love the city’s passion for the Tennessee Volunteers, while nature lovers can take advantage of the countless hiking trails and stunning parks surrounding the city.
Knoxville’s cost of living is lower than the national average, and its job market is growing, especially in education, healthcare, and tech. Whether you’re a young professional, a retiree, or raising a family, Knoxville offers a dynamic lifestyle with plenty of Southern hospitality.
4. Brentwood
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $3,500 – $6,500
- 🌟 Unique Features: Luxury homes, top-tier schools, high-end shopping
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & fall 🌷
- 🏆 Perfect For: Wealthy homeowners 💰, executives 💼, retirees 🌅
Upscale, peaceful, and just minutes from Nashville, Brentwood is one of East Tennessee’s most sought-after places to live. Known for its stunning homes, sprawling parks, and top-ranked schools, it’s a haven for families and professionals looking for luxury suburban living.
Despite its high-end reputation, Brentwood maintains a tight-knit community feel, with farmers’ markets, local events, and beautiful green spaces like Marcella Vivrette Smith Park offering plenty of ways to connect. Its low crime rate and strong economy add to its appeal, making it a great investment for those looking to settle down in an area that balances exclusivity with everyday convenience.
With easy access to both nature and Nashville’s thriving job market, Brentwood offers a high quality of life for those who want the best of both worlds—tranquil suburban living with all the perks of a major city just a short drive away.
✈️ My #1 Hack for Cheap Flights:
If you’re not using Going, you’re probably overpaying for flights. I’ve scored roundtrips to Europe for under $300 - and I never would’ve found them on Google Flights.
Their free version is great, but Premium is where the real magic happens. I recommend doing the 14-day free trial. And right now, you can get 25% off Premium or Elite with my code: JON25.
Seriously, it’s the best travel upgrade I’ve ever made.
5. Spring Hill
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,000 – $4,000
- 🌟 Unique Features: Quiet suburban lifestyle, parks, family-friendly community
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌳
- 🏆 Perfect For: Families 🏡, commuters 🚗, first-time homebuyers 🏠
A town where history meets modern living, Spring Hill is one of East Tennessee’s most rapidly growing communities. Known for its affordable housing, top-rated schools, and small-town charm, it’s a fantastic choice for families and young professionals looking for a peaceful yet thriving place to live.
Spring Hill’s history runs deep—it was the site of a pivotal Civil War battle, and you can still explore historic landmarks like Rippavilla Plantation. But beyond its historic appeal, this town is quickly evolving with new businesses, shopping centers, and a strong local economy.
Despite its growth, Spring Hill maintains a tight-knit community feel, with seasonal festivals, farmers’ markets, and outdoor activities bringing neighbors together. It’s an ideal place for those seeking a slower pace of life while staying close to Nashville’s job opportunities and urban conveniences.
6. Germantown
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,800 – $5,500
- 🌟 Unique Features: Upscale shopping, excellent schools, suburban charm
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & fall 🌼
- 🏆 Perfect For: Affluent families 👩👩👧, professionals 🏢, retirees 👴
If safety, elegance, and a strong sense of community top your priority list, Germantown is an excellent choice. This affluent suburb of Memphis consistently ranks as one of East Tennessee’s safest and most desirable places to live, thanks to its low crime rates, top-tier schools, and beautifully maintained neighborhoods.
The tree-lined streets of Germantown are home to upscale boutiques, charming cafés, and some of the best parks and recreational facilities in the state. With green spaces like Germantown Greenway and Bobby Lanier Farm Park, outdoor lovers have plenty of room to explore.
The town’s thriving economy and high quality of life make it a great fit for families, retirees, and young professionals alike. Whether you’re drawn by its excellent schools, safe streets, or small-town charm, Germantown is a place where you can truly put down roots.
7. Chattanooga
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,700 – $3,500
- 🌟 Unique Features: Scenic mountain views, outdoor activities, tech growth
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & summer ☀️
- 🏆 Perfect For: Outdoor adventurers 🏕️, entrepreneurs 🚀, young families 👨👩👦
With a booming economy, breathtaking scenery, and an unbeatable outdoor lifestyle, Chattanooga is one of East Tennessee’s most exciting places to call home. Surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains and straddling the Tennessee River, this city blends small-town charm with big-city perks.
Nicknamed the “Scenic City,” Chattanooga is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking Lookout Mountain, rock climbing at Sunset Rock, or biking the 16-mile Tennessee Riverwalk, adventure is always close by. The city’s vibrant downtown adds even more appeal, with trendy cafés, craft breweries, and a thriving arts scene—plus the world-famous Tennessee Aquarium.
Offering a walkable, mid-sized city feel, Chattanooga provides the perfect mix of affordability, job opportunities, and recreational activities. If you’re looking for a place where career growth meets outdoor adventure, this city is the perfect fit.
8. Mount Juliet
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,000 – $4,200
- 🌟 Unique Features: Fast-growing community, great schools, suburban feel
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌞
- 🏆 Perfect For: Growing families 🏡, commuters 🚗, nature lovers 🌳
For those seeking the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city convenience, Mount Juliet is a top contender. Just 20 minutes from Nashville, this fast-growing city offers a high quality of life, great schools, and plenty of outdoor recreation—all without the hustle and bustle of urban living.
Nicknamed the “City Between the Lakes,” Mount Juliet is known for its proximity to Percy Priest Lake and Old Hickory Lake, providing residents with boating, fishing, and waterfront relaxation just minutes from home. The city also boasts beautiful parks, a thriving retail scene, and plenty of local dining options.
Families are drawn to Mount Juliet for its excellent school system, low crime rate, and family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a suburban escape, a place to raise a family, or an active outdoor lifestyle, Mount Juliet offers the best of both worlds.
9. Johnson City
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,500 – $3,200
- 🌟 Unique Features: Affordable living, college town, beautiful scenery
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Fall 🍂
- 🏆 Perfect For: Students 🎓, retirees 🌅, budget-conscious residents 💰
Tucked in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Johnson City offers a perfect mix of history, outdoor adventure, and a vibrant cultural scene. As one of East Tennessee’s most livable cities, it’s a hotspot for families, students, and retirees alike.
Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Buffalo Mountain Park and Watauga Lake for hiking, fishing, and breathtaking views. The city’s revitalized downtown is home to local breweries, live music venues, and trendy eateries that capture the spirit of East Tennessee. Plus, as the home of East Tennessee State University (ETSU), there’s a youthful energy that fuels innovation and creativity.
With a low cost of living, excellent healthcare facilities, and a strong job market in healthcare and education, Johnson City offers big-city perks with a small-town feel. Whether you’re drawn to its natural beauty or thriving arts scene, this is a place where you can truly put down roots.
10. Maryville
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,700 – $3,600
- 🌟 Unique Features: Small-town charm, low crime rates, near the Smokies
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & fall 🌸
- 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👨👩👧👦, retirees 👴, outdoor lovers 🌲
If you’re looking for a peaceful, family-friendly city with stunning mountain views, Maryville should be on your radar. Located just outside Knoxville, this charming town offers a slower pace of life without sacrificing convenience.
With Great Smoky Mountains National Park practically in its backyard, Maryville is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Hiking, camping, and scenic drives are part of daily life here. Meanwhile, the town itself boasts excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and a welcoming community.
Downtown Maryville features locally owned shops, cozy cafés, and seasonal festivals that bring residents together. The city also offers a strong job market, particularly in healthcare and education. And with Knoxville just a short drive away, big-city amenities are always within reach.
For those seeking small-town charm, outdoor adventure, and a tight-knit community, Maryville delivers the best of East Tennessee living.
11. Collierville
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,600 – $5,200
- 🌟 Unique Features: Historic town square, high-ranking schools, safe neighborhoods
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring 🌿
- 🏆 Perfect For: Families 🏡, professionals 💻, suburban dwellers 🚗
Blending small-town charm with upscale living, Collierville is one of East Tennessee’s most desirable places to call home. Known for its historic Town Square, top-rated schools, and beautiful parks, this suburb of Memphis offers a high quality of life.
The city’s walkable downtown is a highlight, featuring boutique shops, locally owned restaurants, and community events that bring neighbors together. Families appreciate Collierville’s strong school system and low crime rate, while professionals benefit from its growing economy.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the abundance of green spaces, including H.W. Cox Park and Halle Park, perfect for weekend strolls and picnics. Despite its small-town feel, Collierville provides easy access to Memphis, giving residents the best of both worlds.
With its blend of history, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere, Collierville is a top contender for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle in East Tennessee.
12. Hendersonville
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,100 – $4,400
- 🌟 Unique Features: Lakefront properties, strong schools, vibrant community
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Summer 🏖️
- 🏆 Perfect For: Boating enthusiasts 🚤, families 👨👩👧👦, retirees 🌅
Located on the shores of Old Hickory Lake, Hendersonville offers a perfect blend of waterfront living and suburban convenience. Just 20 minutes from Nashville, this vibrant city is known for its scenic beauty, strong community, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Residents enjoy endless outdoor activities, from boating and fishing on the lake to hiking and biking along the Drakes Creek Greenway. With top-rated schools and safe neighborhoods, Hendersonville is a favorite for families looking to settle down in Middle Tennessee.
Beyond its natural beauty, Hendersonville boasts a lively arts and music scene, along with excellent shopping and dining options. The city’s affordability, compared to nearby Nashville, makes it an attractive choice for young professionals and retirees alike.
If you’re looking for a place that offers waterfront relaxation with easy access to city amenities, Hendersonville is hard to beat.
13. Bartlett
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,000 – $4,000
- 🌟 Unique Features: Safe neighborhoods, good schools, suburban tranquility
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & fall 🌷
- 🏆 Perfect For: Families 🏡, retirees 👴, first-time homebuyers 🏠
A quiet suburban retreat just outside Memphis, Bartlett is known for its strong schools, low crime rate, and family-friendly atmosphere. It offers a slower pace of life while keeping residents close to big-city conveniences.
One of the city’s biggest draws is its excellent public school system, making it a top choice for families. Parks like W.J. Freeman Park and Nesbit Park provide plenty of green space for outdoor fun, while the Bartlett Performing Arts and Conference Center adds a touch of culture to the community.
Despite its suburban charm, Bartlett has a thriving local economy, with growing job opportunities in healthcare, education, and logistics. It also boasts a lower cost of living compared to many other Tennessee cities, making homeownership more accessible.
For those looking for a safe, welcoming, and well-rounded community, Bartlett is a fantastic place to call home.
14. Farragut
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,500 – $5,000
- 🌟 Unique Features: High-end homes, excellent schools, scenic beauty
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Year-round 🌞
- 🏆 Perfect For: Affluent families 💰, professionals 💼, retirees 🌄
Tucked in West Knoxville, Farragut is a highly desirable suburb known for its top-tier schools, pristine parks, and upscale lifestyle. It’s a perfect fit for families, retirees, and professionals seeking a balance between city convenience and suburban tranquility.
Residents enjoy outdoor activities at Anchor Park and the Turkey Creek Greenway, along with easy access to Fort Loudoun Lake for boating and fishing. The area’s shopping and dining scene is equally impressive, with the Turkey Creek Shopping Center offering everything from high-end retailers to local eateries.
Education is a major draw, with Farragut High School consistently ranking among the best in the state. The town’s low crime rate, well-maintained neighborhoods, and community events make it a great place to raise a family.
With its blend of luxury, safety, and natural beauty, Farragut stands out as one of the best places to live in East Tennessee.
15. Gatlinburg
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,800 – $3,800
- 🌟 Unique Features: Gateway to the Smoky Mountains, tourist-friendly, cozy cabins
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Fall 🍁
- 🏆 Perfect For: Nature lovers 🌲, vacation home buyers 🏡, hospitality workers 🏨
A gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a dream destination for nature lovers and those who want a unique place to call home. While it’s famous for tourism, locals enjoy a tight-knit community, breathtaking scenery, and endless outdoor activities.
Living in Gatlinburg means having access to hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting just minutes from your doorstep. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides year-round adventures, while downtown Gatlinburg offers cozy cafés, artisan shops, and fun attractions like Anakeesta and the SkyBridge.
Despite being a tourist hotspot, Gatlinburg maintains a small-town feel, with local schools, community events, and a laid-back lifestyle. Housing is more affordable than you might expect, making it an attractive option for those who love mountain living.
If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to mountain views and fresh mountain air, Gatlinburg offers a lifestyle that’s as adventurous as it is peaceful.
16. Cookeville
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,500 – $3,200
- 🌟 Unique Features: Affordable cost of living, college town, growing economy
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring 🌼
- 🏆 Perfect For: Students 🎓, retirees 👵, budget-conscious residents 💰
Last but certainly not least, Cookeville is one of East Tennessee’s best-kept secrets. This vibrant college town, home to Tennessee Tech University, offers a perfect mix of small-town charm and big-city convenience.
With its affordable cost of living, strong job market, and top-rated schools, Cookeville is a great choice for families, retirees, and young professionals. The city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with Burgess Falls, Cummins Falls, and Center Hill Lake just a short drive away, making it a paradise for outdoor lovers.
Downtown Cookeville boasts a thriving arts scene, delicious local restaurants, and lively community events. Plus, its central location between Nashville and Knoxville gives residents access to two major cities while maintaining a peaceful, laid-back lifestyle.
If you’re searching for affordability, outdoor adventure, and a strong sense of community, Cookeville offers the best of all worlds.
- Read Next: 12 Enchanting Places in Southeast USA
So, when considering where to live in East Tennessee, the choice is as diverse as the region itself. It’s a question of what you value most in your living situation. Whether drawn by job prospects, scenic beauty, or the richness of community life, one thing is certain: East Tennessee is not just a place to live; it’s a way of life, offering experiences and opportunities as unique as its landscapes.
