16 Awesome Destinations to Call Home in East Tennessee in 2025

Jon Miksis Jon Miksis clock Updated March 25, 2025 tourism Dream Destinations
by Jem
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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
The top places to live in East Tennessee for all

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.

Franklin is one of the best places to live in East Tennessee, where civility and security are the norm.
Franklin is one of the best places to live in East Tennessee, where civility and security are the norm.

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.

Murfreesboro is evidence of how it has developed into one of East Tennessee's hippest places to live.
Murfreesboro is evidence of how it has developed into one of East Tennessee’s hippest places to live.

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.

Every street in Knoxville, a community tucked away in the heart of East Tennessee, has a tale to tell.
Every street in Knoxville, a community tucked away in the heart of East Tennessee, has a tale to tell.

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.

The best area in East Tennessee to reside is in Brentwood, a suburban haven.
The best area in East Tennessee to reside is in Brentwood, a suburban haven.

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.

For those looking to discover some of East Tennessee's best places, Spring Hill is a pleasant surprise.
For those looking to discover some of East Tennessee’s best places, Spring Hill is a pleasant surprise.

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.

Moving into Germantown is similar to finding a secret treasure amidst Tennessee's scenery.
Moving into Germantown is similar to finding a secret treasure amidst Tennessee’s scenery.

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.

Chattanooga presents itself as a dynamic metropolis that skillfully blends urban living with scenic surroundings.
Chattanooga presents itself as a dynamic metropolis that skillfully blends urban living with scenic surroundings.

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.

Given its unique lifestyle, Mount Juliet is the most livable city in East Tennessee.
Given its unique lifestyle, Mount Juliet is the most livable city in East Tennessee.

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.

The downtown area of Johnson City is a center for history, art, and culture.
The downtown area of Johnson City is a center for history, art, and culture.

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.

One of the best places in East Tennessee is Maryville; its serene environment and easygoing way of life captivate visitors.
Maryville is a tranquil oasis that combines small-town charm and outdoor experiences.

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.

Collierville's way of life is characterized by a strong sense of community and a rich past.
Collierville’s way of life is characterized by a strong sense of community and a rich past.

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.

Hendersonville provides a peaceful and opportunity-rich way of life.
Hendersonville provides a peaceful and opportunity-rich way of life.

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.

Eastern Tennessee's top community, Bartlett, provides a suburban haven rich in history.
Eastern Tennessee’s top community, Bartlett, provides a suburban haven rich in history. | Image Credit: Zillow

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.

Farragut presents itself as a neighborhood where contemporary amenities and scenic beauty coexist.
Farragut presents itself as a neighborhood where contemporary amenities and scenic beauty coexist.

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.

Cookeville is proof of East Tennessee's capacity to coexist peacefully with environment and culture.
Cookeville is proof of Eastern Tennessee’s capacity to coexist peacefully with the environment and culture. | Image credit: Cookeville Guru

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Places to Live in East Tennessee      

Interested in discovering more about East Tennessee’s prime living locations? Here are some frequently asked questions I often encounter regarding the top places to reside in East Tennessee.

What is the safest city in Eastern Tennessee?

Germantown stands out as one of the safest cities in Eastern Tennessee. Renowned for its low crime rates and strong sense of community, it offers residents a serene and secure environment. This city’s dedication to safety is evident in its well-maintained neighborhoods and active community policing. The collaborative efforts between law enforcement and residents create a tight-knit community where safety is a shared priority.

Families particularly appreciate Germantown for its safe parks and excellent schools, making it an ideal place to raise children. The city’s safety, combined with its quality of life, makes it a top choice for those seeking a secure and peaceful home in Eastern Tennessee.

Is Eastern Tennessee a nice place to live?

Eastern Tennessee is indeed a nice place to live, offering a diverse range of lifestyles to suit different preferences. Its blend of natural beauty, historical richness, and growing urban areas makes it appealing for a variety of reasons.

  • Natural Beauty: With the Great Smoky Mountains as a backdrop, residents enjoy stunning landscapes and abundant outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to scenic drives.
  • Cultural Richness: The area is steeped in history and culture, with vibrant music scenes, festivals, and historical sites.
  • Community Spirit: Towns in Eastern Tennessee are known for their strong sense of community and friendly residents.
  • Cost of Living: Generally, the cost of living in Eastern Tennessee is lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for families and retirees.
  • Quality of Life: With excellent schools, low crime rates in many areas, and a slower pace of life, it offers a high quality of living.

Eastern Tennessee combines the charm of small-town life with the conveniences of larger cities, making it a great place to live in East Tennessee for those seeking balance.

Where is the best place to raise a family in East Tennessee?

In East Tennessee, Maryville is often lauded as one of the best places to raise a family. This charming city offers a perfect blend of factors that contribute to a wholesome family life:

  • Educational Excellence: Maryville boasts some of the best schools in the region, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement and extracurricular activities.
  • Safe and Friendly Community: The city is known for its low crime rates and friendly neighborhoods, creating a safe and nurturing environment for children.
  • Recreational Opportunities: With its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains and numerous parks and recreational areas, Maryville provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and family bonding.
  • Cultural and Community Events: The city hosts various family-friendly events and festivals throughout the year, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
  • Quality of Life: With its affordable housing, high-quality healthcare, and a sense of tight-knit community, Maryville stands out as a nice city to live in East Tennessee for families.

Maryville’s combination of safety, education, and community spirit makes it an ideal choice for families seeking a supportive and engaging environment to grow in.

East Tennessee is known for its breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture, and unwavering sense of community.
East Tennessee is known for its breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture, and unwavering sense of community.

What major cities are in East Tennessee?

East Tennessee is home to several major cities, each offering its unique charm and amenities:

  • Knoxville: Known as the region’s largest city, Knoxville combines urban living with a dose of Southeastern charm. It’s a hub for arts, culture, and education, home to the University of Tennessee.
  • Chattanooga: Famous for its scenic beauty, Chattanooga lies along the Tennessee River, offering an array of outdoor activities and a rich cultural scene.
  • Johnson City: Part of the Tri-Cities area, Johnson City is known for its natural beauty, historical significance, and as a gateway to outdoor adventures in the Appalachian Mountains.
  • Kingsport: Another part of the Tri-Cities, Kingsport boasts a blend of historic sites, natural beauty, and a strong industrial and business sector.
  • Bristol: Straddling the Virginia-Tennessee border, Bristol is famous for its rich music history, particularly country music, and the Bristol Motor Speedway.

These cities, with their diverse characteristics, make East Tennessee a region rich in cultural, historical, and natural attractions, highlighting it as one of the best areas to live in East Tennessee.

What makes East Tennessee so special?

East Tennessee’s special charm lies in a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture:

  • Natural Beauty: The region is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including the Great Smoky Mountains, rolling hills, and lush valleys. This natural backdrop offers endless outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to scenic drives and water sports.
  • Rich Historical Heritage: East Tennessee is steeped in history, from its pivotal role in the Civil War to its Appalachian cultural roots. This is reflected in its many historical sites, museums, and cultural landmarks.
  • Vibrant Music Scene: The area has a deep musical heritage, especially in genres like country and bluegrass. Cities like Bristol, known as the “Birthplace of Country Music,” contribute to this rich musical tapestry.
  • Diverse Cities and Towns: From the urban vibes of Knoxville and Chattanooga to the quaint small towns scattered throughout the region, there’s a place for every lifestyle.
  • Community and Spirit: The region is known for its friendly communities, where neighbors know each other and there’s a strong sense of belonging.
  • Festivals and Events: East Tennessee hosts numerous festivals and events year-round, celebrating everything from its musical heritage to local crafts and cuisine.

These elements combine to make East Tennessee not just a place to visit, but a region with a soul, making it one of the best places to live in East Tennessee.

Why move to East Tennessee?

Moving to East Tennessee offers a range of benefits that cater to diverse lifestyles and preferences:

  • Cost of Living: Generally lower than the national average, it provides an affordable lifestyle with good housing options.
  • Natural Scenery: The region’s stunning landscapes, including the Great Smoky Mountains, offer breathtaking views and abundant outdoor activities.
  • Strong Sense of Community: East Tennessee is known for its warm and welcoming communities, where newcomers quickly feel at home.
  • Educational Opportunities: With several reputable universities and excellent schools, it’s an ideal place for educational growth.
  • Cultural Richness: The area boasts a deep historical and musical heritage, with a vibrant arts scene, festivals, and cultural events.
  • Growing Job Market: The region’s economy is diverse and growing, offering opportunities in various sectors.
  • Mild Climate: The climate is generally mild with four distinct seasons, allowing residents to enjoy a variety of activities year-round.
  • Healthcare Access: East Tennessee has excellent healthcare facilities and services.

These factors make East Tennessee not just a place to live, but a lifestyle choice, offering a high quality of life. It’s a region that answers the question, where is the best place to live in East Tennessee? with its blend of affordability, beauty, and community spirit.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Live in East Tennessee

East Tennessee is a region known for its stunning nature, rich culture, and strong community spirit. It offers a diverse and vibrant way of life. The area has something for everyone. You’ll find the bustling cities of Knoxville and Chattanooga. There’s also the quiet charm of Maryville and Franklin.

Looking for an affordable yet quality lifestyle? Johnson City and Collierville are great options. They show how East Tennessee is both budget-friendly and appealing. Want a lively city feel with a close community? Germantown and Brentwood are perfect choices.

In this region, happiness and a good quality of life are key. Chattanooga, for example, is one of the most livable cities in East Tennessee. These cities combine the fun of outdoor activities with the benefits of city living. They offer a life that’s both rewarding and enjoyable.

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.

The top places to live in East Tennessee right now
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