The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Moving to Knoxville, Tennessee

If you’ve been watching housing trends lately, you’ve probably noticed something: Knoxville, Tennessee keeps popping up.

It’s showing up on lists of America’s fastest-growing mid-size cities. It’s earning nods from retirees, remote workers, and young families alike. And while other metros are pricing people out, Knoxville has quietly been offering what many are craving: a lower cost of living, real community, and a pace of life that still feels human.

So, whether you’re coming from Atlanta, Chicago, or just across the Volunteer State, here’s your complete 2025 guide to moving to Knoxville, what it’s really like to live there, where the growth is happening, and what you should know before packing the moving truck.

Why Knoxville Is Suddenly on Everyone’s Radar

Knoxville used to be one of those “best-kept secrets” of the South. Locals knew what they had: a scenic city nestled along the Tennessee River, surrounded by hills and lakes, with the Great Smoky Mountains less than an hour away.

But in recent years, something changed.

• Home affordability: Median home prices hover around $330,000, compared to over $400,000 nationally.

• Strong job growth: Employers like Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Pilot Flying J, and University of Tennessee drive a diverse local economy.

• Lifestyle: Low taxes, four distinct seasons, and an authentic southern culture make it attractive to nearly every demographic.

“It’s the kind of place where you can hike before work, grab a farm-to-table lunch downtown, and be at a Friday night ballgame, all without sitting in traffic.”

In short: Knoxville checks boxes for affordability, opportunity, and quality of life, while maintaining a sense of character many cities have lost.

Where Exactly Is Knoxville?

Geographically, Knoxville sits in East Tennessee, about halfway between Nashville and Asheville. It’s bordered by the Tennessee River and framed by the Smoky Mountains, making it both strategically located and naturally beautiful.

Distances to major cities:

• Nashville – 2.5 hours

• Chattanooga – 1.5 hours

• Asheville, NC – 2 hours

• Atlanta, GA – 3.5 hours

This location means Knoxville offers easy access to both major Southern metros and serene mountain towns. Many new residents describe it as “the best of both worlds.”

The Vibe: What It Feels Like to Live in Knoxville

Every city has a rhythm, and Knoxville’s is friendly, unpretentious, and rooted in community. It’s big enough to offer amenities, yet small enough that you’ll start recognizing faces at your local coffee shop.

Three things locals love most:

1. Genuine friendliness – People wave. They chat in line. They remember your name.

2. Outdoor lifestyle – Lakes, rivers, hiking trails, and endless weekend road trips.

3. No-pressure pace – You can breathe here. The city doesn’t demand you rush.

Still, don’t mistake the calm for stagnation. Knoxville has serious creative energy, fueled by a growing tech scene, university influence, and a food-and-arts culture that’s been quietly maturing for years.

Knoxville by the Numbers (2025 Snapshot)

Knoxville’s affordability and manageable size make it especially attractive for first-time homebuyers, investors, and remote professionals seeking balance without sacrificing opportunity.

Neighborhood Guide: Where People Are Moving

Knoxville’s neighborhoods each have their own identity. Whether you want historic charm, lake views, or proximity to nightlife, there’s a pocket that fits.

Downtown & Old City

The heart of Knoxville’s resurgence. Historic warehouses turned lofts, eclectic restaurants, breweries, and the Tennessee Theatre. Ideal for young professionals and creatives.

Average home price: $400,000
Vibe: Walkable, artsy, energetic.

Bearden

Upscale and established, with tree-lined streets, boutiques, and excellent schools. A favorite among families and executives.

Average home price: $480,000
Vibe: Suburban sophistication.

North Knoxville (Happy Holler & Fountain City)

Affordable homes, vintage character, and local personality. Gentrification is bringing in new energy while maintaining old charm.

Average home price: $285,000
Vibe: Quirky, community-driven, eclectic.

West Knoxville (Farragut & Hardin Valley)

High-performing schools, modern developments, and convenient access to shopping. This is where many relocators land first.

Average home price: $500,000
Vibe: Suburban growth hub.

South Knoxville

Across the river, this area has become a magnet for outdoor lovers. You’ll find greenways, breweries, and quick access to the Urban Wilderness trail system.

Average home price: $340,000
Vibe: Outdoorsy, artistic, relaxed.

Cost of Living Breakdown

Knoxville’s affordability is one of its biggest draws, especially for people leaving higher-cost metros.

Housing: 25% below the national average
Utilities: 10% below the national average
Transportation: 15% below the national average
Groceries: Roughly on par with the national average
Healthcare: Slightly below the national average

You can live comfortably in Knoxville on an income that would barely cover rent in cities like Denver, Austin, or Seattle.

Jobs & Economy

The city’s economy is remarkably stable, anchored by a mix of energy, healthcare, education, and manufacturing.

Top employers:

• University of Tennessee System

• Oak Ridge National Laboratory

• Covenant Health

• Pilot Flying J

• Clayton Homes

In recent years, Knoxville has also seen growth in remote work and entrepreneurship, thanks to its affordability and fiber internet coverage.

Emerging sectors:

• Clean energy & R&D

• Tech startups

• Healthcare innovation

• Advanced manufacturing

Education: Schools and Universities

Public Schools:
Knox County Schools serve around 60,000 students and include some of the top-rated institutions in East Tennessee, such as Farragut High, Hardin Valley Academy, and Bearden High.

Higher Education:

• University of Tennessee, Knoxville – Flagship campus with over 30,000 students.

• Pellissippi State Community College – Strong technical and transfer programs.

• Johnson University – A faith-based private university on a scenic campus.

The presence of UT adds vibrancy, diversity, and athletic spirit (Go Vols!) to the entire city.

Lifestyle: What Locals Actually Do

If you ask residents why they stay, they’ll rarely say “the job” or “the house.” They’ll say: the life.

Outdoors

• Paddleboarding on Fort Loudoun Lake

• Hiking in the Urban Wilderness

• Weekend getaways to the Smokies

• Biking along the Tennessee Riverwalk

Arts & Culture

• Knoxville Museum of Art

• Dogwood Arts Festival

• Live music at The Mill & Mine or Bijou Theatre

Sports

• SEC football dominates Saturdays

• Minor League Baseball (Tennessee Smokies)

• Ice Bears hockey

Food Scene

Knoxville’s culinary rise is real, from biscuit brunches to breweries and chef-driven Southern fare. Don’t miss Stock & Barrel, OliBea, or J.C. Holdway for a taste of the city’s flavor evolution.

The Real Estate Market in 2025

While prices have risen from pre-2020 levels, Knoxville remains undervalued relative to its amenities and livability.

Market snapshot:

• Average Days on Market: 41

• Average List-to-Sale Ratio: 98%

• Inventory: Tight but improving

• New construction: Strong in West Knoxville and Hardin Valley

Knoxville’s mix of steady demand, limited supply, and quality of life has made it a magnet for both homebuyers and investors.

For Retirees: Why Knoxville Tops “Best Places to Retire” Lists

Knoxville checks almost every retirement box:

• No state income tax on wages or Social Security

• Mild four-season climate

• Excellent healthcare network

• Vibrant but not chaotic city center

• Easy access to nature and travel

Many retirees relocate from Florida or the Northeast, seeking a gentler climate and friendlier cost base, without sacrificing comfort or culture.

For Families: Safe, Stable, and Full of Opportunity

Knoxville’s family appeal comes down to three things: schools, safety, and sense of community.

Neighborhoods like Farragut, Hardin Valley, and West Hills are known for their parks, sports programs, and neighborhood events. Parents praise the area’s affordability and the ability to own larger homes without major financial strain.

For Remote Workers: The Sweet Spot

High-speed internet, short commutes, local coworking spaces, and stunning backdrops make Knoxville ideal for remote professionals.

Average home offices feature more square footage and outdoor space than national norms, allowing remote workers to enjoy a better quality of life without the city price tag.

Downsides & Realistic Expectations

Every city has trade-offs. Knoxville’s aren’t deal-breakers, but you should be aware:

• Public transit is limited. You’ll need a car.

• Summer humidity is real. July and August get muggy.

• Growth is straining infrastructure. Expect more traffic in West Knoxville and Hardin Valley.

• Cultural diversity is improving but still limited compared to larger metros.

That said, most transplants say the pros far outweigh the cons once they settle in.

Where the Growth Is Headed (2025–2030 Outlook)

Knoxville’s expansion is following a clear pattern: westward and southward.

• Hardin Valley – booming with new construction and top schools.

• South Knoxville – emerging with creative development and outdoor amenities.

• Downtown – continued revitalization, especially along the riverfront.

Economic and population forecasts predict sustained growth of 1.5–2% per year, keeping demand strong for housing and services.

Insider Tips for a Smooth Move

1. Visit before you decide. Spend time in different neighborhoods at different times of day.

2. Hire a local realtor. Knoxville’s micro-markets vary more than you’d think.

3. Time your move. Spring and early fall are ideal for both weather and inventory.

4. Plan utilities early. Energy costs are low, but setup can take time for new builds.

5. Embrace community life. Knoxville rewards involvement: join a local club, attend festivals, and volunteer.

Knoxville’s Magic Is in Its Balance

Cities like Knoxville are rare, modern enough to offer opportunity, small enough to feel like home.

It’s a place where your neighbors still wave, where the mountains call on weekends, and where your money stretches a little further than you ever thought possible.

The secret’s out, but it’s not too late. If you’re looking for a city that’s growing smart, grounded in authenticity, and open to newcomers, Knoxville might just be the move that changes everything.