The Pros & Cons of Moving to Tennessee (What to Know)
If you’ve been daydreaming about friendly faces, a little more space, and a slower pace that still keeps life interesting, you’re not alone. Over the past few years, Tennessee has quietly become one of the most popular states to relocate to. People are trading city traffic and sky-high costs of living for rolling hills, great weather, and a sense of community that can sometimes feel rare these days.
Whether you’re drawn to the creative energy of Nashville, the mountain views of East Tennessee, or the charming small towns sprinkled throughout the state, the Volunteer State has a way of making people feel right at home. But before you pack up your boxes and load your moving truck, it’s worth looking at both sides of the story and exploring the pros and cons that can come along with relocation.
At Zurich Homes, we’ve helped countless families start new chapters here in Williamson County. We know firsthand what makes Tennessee such an incredible place to live, as well as a few realities you’ll want to be ready for. Here’s a full breakdown of some of the pros and cons of moving to Tennessee, plus what life here really feels like once you’ve settled in.
The Pros of Moving to Tennessee
No state income tax
Let’s start with the headline everyone talks about: Tennessee doesn’t tax earned income. That means more of your paycheck stays with you. For many relocating young professionals and retirees, this is a major draw, especially compared to states like California, New York, or Illinois, where income taxes can take a big bite out of your budget.
This policy also makes Tennessee attractive to entrepreneurs and remote workers. If you’re running your own business or working remotely, not having to pay state income tax gives you extra breathing room to invest, save, or simply enjoy life a little more.
(Quick note: Tennessee does have sales and property taxes, so while your total tax bill may not disappear, it’s often much lower overall than in high-tax states.)
A lower cost of living
The cost of living in Tennessee is consistently below the national average. That’s not just real estate. Groceries, healthcare, and utilities tend to cost less here, too. You might be surprised how far your dollar stretches, whether you’re building a home, dining out, or heading out for a weekend adventure.
In places like Franklin, Brentwood, and Nolensville, home prices have risen as demand grows, but compared to many major metro areas, you still get more space, quality, and craftsmanship for your money. It’s not uncommon for families moving from coastal cities to find that they can afford more in Tennessee than they could in their previous home.
Experience and embrace the outdoors year-round
Tennessee’s landscape is a real showstopper, rolling hills, lakes, rivers, and mountain views that change with the seasons. You’ll experience colorful fall foliage, (relatively) mild winters, fresh green springs, and long summer evenings perfect for porch sitting (but be aware, it gets hot!).
Outdoor lovers are spoiled for choice here. From hiking in Great Smoky Mountains National Park to paddle boarding on lakes and rivers or simply exploring local trails and parks, it’s easy to spend time on outdoor activities all year round.
Middle Tennessee in particular strikes the perfect balance. It’s lush and green, with plenty of sunshine, and still close enough to mountains or lakes for easy day trips.
Southern hospitality is a real thing
You’ll hear this phrase a lot, but in Tennessee (like much of the South), it’s not just talk. People hold doors open, wave from their front porches, and actually mean it when they ask, “How are you?”
Communities here, especially in places like Franklin, Leipers Fork, and Thompson’s Station, tend to be welcoming and close-knit. It’s common for neighbors to become friends, and local events (think Friday night lights, farmers’ markets, or seasonal festivals) bring everyone together.
If you’re moving from a big city (or another part of the country), the friendliness might catch you off guard at first, but in the best way.
Growing cities, but plenty of small-town charm
Whether you’re looking for live music, growing job markets, or a charming main street with local shops and coffee spots, Tennessee has something for you.
Nashville is a fast-growing city, with a booming job market, incredible food, and an ever-evolving cultural scene. It’s a hub for healthcare, tech, and entertainment.
Franklin, just south of Nashville, offers historic charm, beautiful homes, and a family-friendly community that people fall in love with.
Knoxville and Chattanooga both mix urban energy with natural beauty, offering easy access to mountains, rivers, and affordable living.
One of the best things about living in Tennessee is that you can live minutes from a larger, thriving city and still enjoy quiet evenings under the stars.
Plenty of opportunities for outdoor living
There’s something special about how Tennesseans live outdoors. From backyard bonfires to impromptu lake days, outdoor living is a real part of everyday life.
Tennessee is home to tons of state parks and countless hiking and biking trails. You can spend weekends boating, fishing, horseback riding, or exploring scenic drives through the countryside. And when the weather cools off? It’s all about cozy patios, fire pits, and fall festivals.
A strong sense of community
Whether it’s a local charity run, school event, or Saturday morning soccer game, life in Tennessee has a community rhythm to it. People get involved. Families stay connected.
If you value knowing your neighbors, supporting local businesses, and feeling part of something bigger, you’ll fit right in here.
At Zurich Homes, that sense of connection is something we build for, creating homes that encourage gathering and flow easily between indoor and outdoor spaces.
The Cons of Moving to Tennessee
As much as we love it here, no place is perfect, and it’s worth knowing what challenges might come along with your move.
Hot, humid summers
The summer months are warm in Tennessee (and the season can kick off a little earlier than you’re used to if you’re moving from farther north). Temperatures can hover in the 90s with plenty of humidity, especially in July and August. The upside? Longer pool days and lush greenery.
If you’re coming from a dry climate, it may take a little getting used to. Most homes here are built with comfort in mind, including energy-efficient HVAC systems, shaded porches, and ceiling fans to keep you cool on even the hottest days.
Allergy season can be formidable
Spring in Tennessee is gorgeous, but it’s also prime allergy season. The same flowers and trees that make it beautiful can send your sinuses into overdrive.
Investing in a high-quality air purifier and good filtration system can make a huge difference, but you may notice that your seasonal allergies are a bit worse than you're used to when you first move.
Rising housing prices
Tennessee’s getting more and more attention, and that attention comes with quick population expansion. Areas around Nashville and Franklin are expanding quickly, and home prices have climbed in response to demand.
That said, there’s still tremendous value to be found here. Some families choose to build custom homes to get exactly what they want, rather than compete in a hot resale market.
At Zurich Homes, we help clients navigate that process every step of the way, because building should feel exciting, not overwhelming.
Limited public transit
Outside of major metro areas, public transportation options are limited. Most people rely on their cars, which means commute times can vary depending on where you work and live and you may need to consider transportation costs when determining where you'd like to live.
The good news? Traffic here isn’t nearly as intense as in many other major cities, and the scenic drives are hard to complain about.
Wild weather
Tennessee’s weather can change fast. Spring and early summer can bring heavy storms, and while tornadoes aren’t frequent, they do happen.
Building with an experienced local team (like Zurich) ensures your home is designed with safety, durability, and regional conditions in mind.
A potential lifestyle adjustment
If you’re used to living in a big, busy city, Tennessee may feel slower at first. Stores may close earlier, and the pace of life is more relaxed.
But for most newcomers, that slower rhythm is exactly what wins them over. You’ll quickly find that “slower” doesn’t mean “boring”, it gives you more space to breathe, connect, and enjoy where you are (and who you’re with).
What It’s Like to Live in Middle Tennessee
Here in Williamson County, we have something special. Towns like Franklin, Thompson’s Station, and Leiper’s Fork have this perfect blend of warmth, character, and everyday convenience.
Franklin’s historic downtown is filled with boutique shops, local restaurants, and year-round festivals. There’s a sense of pride and preservation here, and you can feel it in the architecture and the community events that bring everyone together.
Ready to move to Franklin? Read our full breakdown of everything you need to know.
The area boasts great schools, and there’s no shortage of beautiful parks, natural areas, and family-friendly activities. It’s the kind of place where kids still ride bikes after school and neighbors wave as you drive by. Not only that, but (perhaps unsurprising for a state known for its music scene), there's plenty of live music to be found, even outside of the downtown Nashville area. (Though you can pop down to the Grand Ole Opry or the Country Music Hall of Fame in no time.)
At Zurich Homes, we’re proud to build right here in the heart of it all. Many of our custom projects are in Westhaven, a master-planned community known for its walkability, charm, and focus on connection, but we can also build on clients’ property and elsewhere in the area.
We design homes that balance timeless architecture with thoughtful functionality, like mudrooms that actually make sense (because every family needs a beautiful and organized “drop zone”), kitchens built for gatherings, and outdoor living spaces that make summer evenings worth every degree.
Moving to Tennessee Pro Tips
Visit before you commit: Spend a few days exploring different areas. Middle Tennessee has a distinct feel compared to East or West Tennessee.
Consider the commute: Nashville traffic is mild by plenty of other cities’ standards, but growing fast. Choosing a neighborhood that fits your routine can save you time commuting (though if you’d prefer to live in or around Williamson County, you can get to Nashville in about half an hour).
Factor in weather when designing your home: Covered patios, screened porches, porch fans, and good insulation make a world of difference in the summer heat, and fireplaces or fire pits can help you embrace the relatively mild winter weather.
Get plugged into the community early: Join local groups, volunteer, or attend community events. There’s no better way to feel at home fast.
Moving to Tennessee isn’t just a change of address, it can be a real lifestyle shift. You trade noise for nature, rush for rhythm, and anonymity for genuine connection.
Yes, there are humid days, pollen counts, and the occasional storm warning. But there’s also front-porch coffee, weekends at the lake, and neighbors who actually know your name.
If you’re looking for a place where you can slow down without missing out, Tennessee might be exactly what you’re looking for.
And if you’re dreaming about building a home that fits your life here perfectly, we’d love to help. At Zurich Homes, we specialize in creating custom homes across Williamson County that blend classic design, thoughtful details, and everyday livability, so your next chapter starts in a home that truly feels like yours.
FAQs
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Absolutely. Tennessee offers a rare mix of affordability, beauty, and friendliness, making it a truly great place to live. Whether you want a bustling city lifestyle or quiet country living, there’s a community that fits your pace.
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For families, Williamson County (including Franklin, Brentwood, and Thompson’s Station) is one of the most sought-after areas thanks to excellent schools and a strong focus on community. Chattanooga and Knoxville also offer great quality of life, outdoor access, and affordability. The University of Tennessee is located in Knoxville, giving you plenty of things to do and see.
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Tennessee’s cost of living is below the national average, though popular areas around Nashville have seen rising home prices. Property taxes remain low, and the absence of state income tax helps balance other expenses. It all depends on where you live and what your housing priorities are.
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Expect four distinct seasons. Winters are (relatively) mild, spring is lush and full of blooms, summers are warm and humid, and fall is a show of color. There’s plenty to do outdoors to help you embrace every single season. There is occasional severe weather, but it's not the norm.
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Yes, especially in Williamson County, which consistently ranks among the top public school systems in the state. You’ll also find excellent private and charter school options. It all depends on what you’re looking for.
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Tennessee’s economy is diverse and growing. Nashville in particular is a hub for healthcare, tech, finance, and entertainment. Many remote workers also relocate here for lifestyle and cost-of-living benefits.
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That depends on your priorities. Buying can be faster, but building allows you to create exactly what you want. With so much growth, building a custom home with a trusted local builder like Zurich Homes is a smart long-term investment.
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Nashville traffic is growing as the population expands, but compared to many major cities, it’s manageable. Choosing the right community makes a big difference. Many Zurich homeowners love the convenience of Westhaven and Franklin for that reason.
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People love Tennessee's low property taxes, especially compared to northern and coastal states. Rates vary by county, but overall, Tennessee remains very tax-friendly.
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The people. Again and again, newcomers say the same thing: the warmth, community, and authenticity of life in Tennessee are what make them stay.
