Moving to Tennessee

Looking to move to Tennessee? Then, this simple guide will help you know more about this wonderful state.

Tennessee is a state of America that is located in the upper South of the eastern part of the country. By area, it is the 36^th largest amongst the state and has a population of about 6,897,580 which makes it the 16^th most populous. In 1976, it became the 16^th to state to join the union. Tennessee has a unique geography due to its great breadth stretching for 432 miles that stretches from the Appalachian Mountain to the Mississippi River. Its neighbors 8 states which includes Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas and Missouri. The state’s city capital is Nashville while Memphis is its largest. Tennessee is also home to breathtaking landscapes and sceneries wherein roughly one-half of its part is forested making it home to a broad spectrum of wild life. Moving to this state will surely be a memorable experience for you and your family.

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• A beautiful glimpse of downtown Nashville’s skyline during twlight
• The downtown of nashvile  skyline at twilight

Contents:

Pros and Cons

Let’s weigh down some advantages and disadvantages of the state. It will help eliminate your fears when you move. This is extremely essential especially if you decide and stay to Tennessee.

The Good:

• No Income Tax: One of the advantages when you move to live to Tennessee is that it doesn’t have an income tax. Unlike other states, you would be surprise to see that there is no deduction that will be charge from your paycheck with the federal withholdings.
• Great Music: The state will make you fall in love with music all over again due to its amazing music history. Most people associate it with the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley, when they hear Memphis, Tennessee. Nashville is known for its country music while Bristol is known for being “The Birth Place of Country Music”.
• Low cost of living: If your moving to Tennessee, then you’ll find that the state has a low cost of living. According to U.S news, it has an average of 89.5 out of 100 national average. With its cheap housing, affordable groceries, utilities, and bill, you’ll be able to save up more.
• Breathtaking Sceneries: The state is known for its breathtaking sceneries such as The Great Smoky Mountains and is especially popular during Autumn season. This is because of the way the trees change color that offers a stunning display which makes a gorgeous backdrop wherever you are.
• Plenty of Festivals: Due to its many musical influences through the decades, Tennesse holds various festivals and celebrations that you’ll surely enjoy such as the popular Bonnaroo. Its small towns also do not disappoint as it also holds countless of fun and exciting events.
• Low Unemployment Rate: With only 14.7 unemployment rate, it only means that there are plenty of jobs to go around in the state. Various job opportunities are available from town markets to companies. This is perfect for families who have just moved in or people who want to take on a different career.
• Cave Explorations: Tennessee has around 9000 caves that can be toured and explored by its locals and tourist. Some areas can be entered for free wherein most can be found anywhere on the state.

The Bad

• Hot Summers: If you’re used to the usual hot summer weather in your state, then you’ll find Tennessee’s summer very different as it can rise to extreme temperatures during that season. Also, the humidity will make you feel not only hot but also sticky as well.
• Prone to Tornadoes: Though the state doesn’t belong to tornado alley, it frequently experiences a number of tornadoes especially in November. So, if you’re planning to move here, make sure to come prepared.
• Gang Violence: Gangs are not only present in the state but also violently active. Most of these gangs exist in the city of Memphis. This is a huge disadvantage for the state and is one of the main reasons why its crime rate is high.
• Multiple Nuclear Powerplants: Tennessee owns three operational nuclear power plants that generates about an average of 7,800 megawatts each day. Though the energy it provides is powerful and reliable, living near them can be very risky. Make sure to know the evacuation route in the city just in case something happens.
• Challenging to Make New Friends: There are some neighborhood wherein people that can be quite intimidating which make it hard to make new friends. There is some presence of exclusionary interaction that may make you feel left out especially if you have just moved in to the town.
• Spicy Barbeques: For some, this may not be a disadvantage and more like a benefit especially if you love spicy dry rub BBQs. For those who don’t however, this can be a problem as most people in the city uses spicy seasonings for their BBQs.
• Transportation: The state does offer various public transportation options for its citizens but if you want to get somewhere on time then it will be best for you to own a vehicle. This is because some public transportation in the city may be sometimes unreliable and doesn’t offer full coverage to the city.

Fun Facts

Here are some fun facts about Tennessee that you need to know:

• The home of the Legendary King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley, is located in Memphis, Tennessee.
• The largest freshwater aquarium, The Tennessee Aquarium, can be found in the city of Chattanooga.
• Elizabethton is the birthplace of Samuel Powhatan Carter who was known to be the only one to be both an Admiral in the Navy and a General in the Army in American history.
• The state is also home of famous Hollywood celebrities such as Justin Timberlake, Miley Cyrus, and Morgan Freeman.
• The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States.
• Greeneville is the birthplace of the famous Davy Crockett. A replica of Crockett’s log cabin on the banks of Limestone Creek can be visited.
• The state owns a replica of The Parthenon which is a famous ancient Greek building in Athens. It is located in Nashville’s Centennial Park.
• In 1982, The Knoxville World’s Fair hosted a whopping 11,127,786 people.
• The first female senator in the U.S, Hattie Caraway, was born in Bakersville.
• The name Tennessee originates from the Cherokee Native American word “Tana-see” which means “The Meeting Place”.

Funny State Laws

The state of Tennessee has also some weird but funny laws. Its essential to know some of these if your planning to move to the state.

• It is illegal for more than 8 women to live in the same household. The state considers this as a brothel.
• Holding hands on school grounds is illegal. This is because lawmakers deem it as a gateway to sexual activity.
• It is illegal to post images online that causes emotional distress and has no legitimate purpose.
• The song “It Ain’t Goin’ To Rain No Mo'” is banned or outlawed in Oneida, TN. So, make sure not to hum that tune if your moving there.
• The state prohibits sharing your Netflix password to anyone.
• Picking up some roadkill is completely legal in Tennessee.
• It is illegal for women to call and ask a man for a date in Oneida, TN.
• Selling hollow log is not allowed and is considered illegal in the state.

Weather and Climate

The climate of Tennessee is temperate. It experiences hot summers and cold winters. Due to its topography, the state encounters wide range of climatic conditions. The Gulf Coastal Plain, the Central Basin, and the Sequatchie Valley are considered to be the warmest parts of the state. Summers tend to be hot and humid with temperatures that rises up above the 90°F during its peak. Summer nights are usually mild with temperatures going around 70°F (21.1°C). Meanwhile winter season ranges from mild to cold. Its temperature goes below the range of 22°F (-5.6°C) to 33°F (0.6°C). Colder temperatures are experienced in higher parts than the plains.

Nature

Tennessee has a lot to offer when it comes to nature as it has forest, caves, falls and many more. With breathtaking sceneries and marvelous landscapes, the state has countless of natural areas for you to visit and explore. From caves to amazing mountain ranges, you’ll surely be able to enjoy and experience its wonders. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just want to relax and enjoy the nature, Tennessee will leave your heart in awe with its natural sites. Below are top natural places you can visit:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Tuckaleechee Caverns
• Fall Creek Falls
• Ruby Falls
• The Lost Sea

Natural Disasters

The state has experienced plenty of natural disasters in its history. If you’re planning to move to Tennessee make sure to come prepared as it is frequently hit by storms, tornadoes and many more. The city of Nashville’s Office of Emergency Management has various information about disasters to help the public become more aware of what these natural disasters are and what to do when it happens. Some of these Natural disasters are:

• Tornadoes: This is one of the most frequent disasters to be experience in the state. In fact, it has 175.35 tornado index value which means there is a higher chance of it occurring more in the state. It is recommended to stay inside your home and go to a safe place to avoid any flying debris.
• Severe Thunderstorms: This is characterized by storms with lightning that may bring heavy rains, strong winds, hail and tornadoes. Make sure to go inside your house and also avoid tall structures such as trees, poles, fences, etc. if you’re outside.
• Winter Storms: Though it rarely happens in the state, it can still occur at any time. Winter storms bring freezing rain and heavy snow/sleet. This is why it is essential to come prepared by always wearing winter clothes and equipment during the winter season.
• Flash Floods: This type of natural disasters is very deadly as not only does it destroys structures but causes death. Make sure to take action and follow safety protocols of the authorities to prevent further accidents. Avoid going near flooded areas and evacuate your homes if needed. Flash floods are often caused by heavy rains.
• Tropical Storms: Tropical storms are very common and can occur almost anytime. It has two types which are tropical depression and hurricane. Make sure to wear your raincoats and boots when this happens.

Moving Prices from Major Cities

Moving can sometimes hit your budget quite hard especially when moving estimates vary depending on the city you’ll move into. This is why it is important to plan ahead by knowing the prices of your chosen moving company. This will allow you to estimate the cost of their prices from their budget. Most moving companies gives free price quotations on their website so try to use it if you want to know how much it’ll cost. Here are some estimated prices of major cities or try ours:

• Chicago, IL to Tennessee: $2,184
• San Francisco, CA to Tennessee: $5,774
• Boston, MA to Tennessee: $2,741
• Seattle, WA to Tennessee: $2,711
• New Orleans, LA to Tennessee: $2,532
• New York, NY to Tennessee: $3,815

Housing / Real Estate

The state of Tennessee has one of the most affordable housing and property in the U.S. This is also because of its low property tax wherein an average of $1000 in tax is only paid for each household. The median home price of the state is around $164,500 while its median rent is around $1139. This is good news if you decide to move in Tennessee as finding an affordable home or rent will be easy.

Price of Living

Tennessee is one of the cheapest states to live in due to its low cost of living. With no income tax, individuals and families will not have to worry about the burden of deductions on their salaries. In addition, the state has affordable groceries, utilities, bills and rent. The Economic Policy Institute (EPI) has provided the public a family budget calculator to inform families of the estimate price of living in the city of their chosen state. The table below are examples of monthly cost for family with 4 members living in Tennessee:

City of Nashville

Memphis metro area

Knoxville metro area

Demographics

The United States Census Bureau states that the state of Tennessee has a population of 6,829,174 in 2019. The media age of the citizens is 38.5 years of age which consist of 51.2% females and 48.8% males. The state’s religion preferences states that it includes 81% Christians, 3% non-Christians, and 14% unaffiliated. Its racial composition consists of the following:

• White: 77.67%
• Black or African American: 16.80%
• Asian: 1.70%
• Native American: 0.27%
• Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: 0.06%
• Two or more races: 2.14%
• Other race: 1.36%

Education

The state offers various top-quality educational institutions for its citizens. This is an important aspect for families who want to move here. With about 88.5% high school graduation rate, it produces more graduates compared to other states. Tennessee also has an average of 279 NAEP math scores. Some of its top educational institutes are:

Top High Schools:

• Merrol Hyde Magnet School
• Central Magnet School
• Martin Luther King Jr. Magnet School
• Ravenwood High School
• Franklin High School

Top Colleges and Universities:

• Lincoln Memorial University
• Lipscomb University
• Belmont University
• University of Tennessee
• Vanderbilt University

Healthcare and Medical Institutions

The state is ranked 44 in the national health ranking 2019 according to the data made by the Unified Health Foundation. Its strengths in health include low occurrence of excessive drinking and high Tdap immunization coverage for its adolescent citizens. However, an increase in the percentage of mental distress and obesity are two of its main problems for the past two years. Still, the state is working really hard to help address these issues to its locals. Below are some of Tennessee’s top medical institutions:

• Vanderbilt University Medical Center
• University of Tennessee Medical Center
• Ascension St. Thomas Hospital-West
• Methodist Hospitals of Memphis
• Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis

Tourism / Attractions

The best features of any state are its attractions. Tennessee has plenty of attractions that will surely leave you in awe of its beauty. These attractions also help in promoting the tourism of the state wherein it helps generate jobs and income for the state. According to Tennessee’s Department of tourism, travels from visitors help generate around 189,757 jobs, $1.81 billion in state and local tax revenue. From natural parks to museums, the state has a lot to offer. Here are some of its top attractions:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Tennessee Aquarium
• Belle Meade Plantation
• Dollywood
• Graceland

Top Cities

If you’re planning to move, it is essential to have a little research of the city you choose to see what it has instore for you when you start living there. The cities of Tennessee are what makes it unique and exciting. Each city is filled with beautiful attractions, exciting evens, amazing history and many more. Here are the state’s top cities:

• Nashville: The capital city of Tennessee, Nashville is home to Legendary country music venues such as Grand Ole Opry House and the famous “Grand Ole Opry” stage and radio show. It also features Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and historic Ryman Auditorium.
• Memphis: The city is located on Mississippi River in southwest part of the state. It is famous for being the home of the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley named Graceland. Johnny Cash and BB king also recorded their albums here at the legendary Sun Studio.
• Knoxville: If you love historical sites, then Knoxville is the city for you. It has the Market Square district which has 19th-century buildings and the Museum of East Tennessee History which is filled with Civil War artifacts, exhibits, etc.
• Gatlinburg: It is known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It mainly offers breathtaking view of its landscapes. It also includes Space Needle observation tower, the Sky Lift and the Ober Gatlinburg which offers a famous amusement park and ski resort.
• Pigeon Forge: The city is the home of the famous Dollywood which is an Appalachian-themed park by Dolly Parton. The city also features Smoky Mountain Opry, and Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede and outlet malls.
• Franklin: The city offers glimpse of American history from its historical sites such as the 1864 Battle of Franklin: Carter House and Carnton Plantation. It’s Downtown’s Main Street includes restored Victorian Buildings, antique shops and galleries.

Job Market

Tennessee has a strong job market due to its job growth. It has 2.2% average job growth which is higher than the national average in the U.S. with only 9.7% unemployment rate, It ranks #14 in employment which is a good sign for those who are seeking jobs. The state’s Department of Labor and Workforce Development affirms that it has currently 330 jobs available and has around 202,824 recent openings. Tennessee’s Top Hiring Companies include:

• HCA Healthcare Inc
• Fedex Express World Hub
• Methodist University Hospital
• Vanderbilt Children’s Neonatal
• Knox County Schools
• Claiborne Medical Ctr
• Eastman Chemical Co
• St Thomas Med Partners-Lenox
• Gaylord Opryland Resrt-Cnvntn
• United States Dept of Energy

Economy

The state has a thriving economy due to its high employment rate and job growth. It is rank #12 in the economy ranking this is because of its low unemployment rate and high venture capital. Most of its principal cash products are cotton, tobacco, and livestock. Tennessee’s Top Industries include:

• Health Care and Social Assistance
• Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation
• Construction
• Accommodation and Food Services
• Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services
• Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
• Finance and Insurance
• Educational Services

Things to do

The state of Tennessee offers a variety of exciting and fun things to do for its locals and tourist. With each city filled with great attraction sites, your move will surely be worthwhile. From hiking its breathtaking mountain trails to touring to its museums that will give you a glimpse of its history, it will definitely leave you a memorable experience when you visit. Some of its most famous attractions are:

• The Great Smoky Mountains National Park: It is the most famous and visited tourist attraction of the U.S. The Appalachian Trail. It is bordered between Tennessee and North Carolina. The site offers fantastic view of its wildlife and nature wherein you can go hiking, fishing, camping, and sightseeing.
• Graceland and the Elvis Presley Memphis Complex: It is the top attraction in the city of Memphis as it is home to the no other than the King of Rock N’ Roll, Elvis Presley. The site provides a glimpse of his home and life in Memphis which includes exhibits, displays of the star’s many outfits, his influences and how he came to fame. It also includes the family tomb which displays memorabilia’s such as cars and aircrafts.
• Tennessee Aquarium: Located in the city of Chattanooga, it is home to about 12000 marine life. Explore its two exhibit buildings called River Journey exhibit that is considered as the largest fresh water aquarium and the Ocean Journey exhibits which is devoted to ocean and sea animals.
• The Parthenon: It is a full-scale replica of the magnificent structure in Athens, Greece. It is located at Centennial Park wherein it is filled with about 63 paintings dating back to the19th and 20th centuries. The structure is also decorated with other replicas to mimic the sculptures of Parthenon.
• Stones River National Battlefield: It is located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The site is where The Battle of Stone, one of the Civil War’s bloodiest and deadliest battles, happened. It features the Hazen’s Brigade Monument which is known as the oldest surviving monument to the American Civil War. Various activities are offered at the site such as walks, tours, and programs.
• The Titanic Museum: Located in Pigeon Forge, the museum was opened in 2010. It is shaped just like the RMS Titanic with half the size of the original. It houses over 400 different artifacts that is related to the iconic ship and is designed to make you feel you are on the titanic. Go have an adventure as you receive a boarding ticket named on a real passenger to find out if they have survived or not.
• Ryman Auditorium: Known as the Mother Church of Country Music, it is a famous venue for live performances. It has 2,362 seats available for its audience who are often country music fans.
• Centennial Park: The 132-acre park is a very famous spot in the city of Nashville. It features a one-mile walking trail, volleyball courts, a playground, a band shell and many more. Its most famous attraction inside are the Centennial Art Center and the replica of the Parthenon.

Public Transport

Tennessee’s department of transportation offers various public transit services to its locals and tourist. With wide range of services, you don’t have to worry about getting to the location you want. Below are the state’s public transportation:

Crime and Safety

According to Tennessee’s Bureau of Investigation, most of the state’s crime issues include Human Trafficking, drugs, medical fraud, cybercrime and Identity theft. The state’s violent crime rate is 6.2 while property crime rate is 28.3. Its violent crime rate went down from 6.6 last year but it still is high when compared to the national rate which is only 3.7%. This is the reason why the level of concern of the locals went higher by 15%. Property crime also went down this past year. The state’s top safest cities include:

• Cross Plains
• St. Joseph
• Pitman Center
• Tusculum
• Wartrace

Acquire a new driver’s License

One of the things you need to do when you move to Tennessee is secure a new driver’s license as your old one would become invalid. Acquiring one is simple, you can check out the guide on Tennessee’s Department of Safety and Homeland Security about getting one. You can also follow some tips here below:

1. Locate the nearest driver’s license office in your area and secure an appointment.
2. Bring the necessary documents with you such as: U.S. photo driver license or photo ID card, valid passport, USCIS Documentation, Marriage Certificate (if married).
3. Additional requirements such as Obtain a learner permits, passing eye and written exam, and proof of residency in Tennessee.
4. You must then pay the fee and ask for a temporary license.
5. Wait for a few weeks for your new driver’s license to be picked up or delivered to your residence.

Road Safety, Highways and Routes

The state has various routes and highways. Below is a list of some of its highways and routes:

Highways:

• US 11
• US 19
• US 23
• US 25
• US 27
• US 31
• US 41

Routes:

• SR 1
• SR 2
• SR 3
• SR 4
• SR 5
• SR 6
• SR 7

Museums

Tennessee’s museum will give a glimpse of its amazing history and art throughout the years. From music museums to art exhibits, the state has so much to offer for locals and tourist alike. Here are some of its top museums:

• Creative Discovery Museum
• National Civil Rights Museum
• Stax Museum of American Soul Music
• Memphis Rock N’ Soul Museum
• Lotz House Museum
• Titanic Museum Attraction
• Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

In the end, is moving to Tennessee worth it?

• A woman happily resting along with her moving boxes after moving day
• A woman resting after moving day

Choosing to move to Tennessee is a huge step but it definitely will be worth your while. Why? Because the state is full of great things to offer to its locals. Besides its wonderful attractions and amazing landscapes to view and explore, the state is very affordable to live in. This is an important factor especially for those who are just starting anew life in the state. In addition, employment rate is high which is a huge plus as you won’t have to worry about not getting a job. Though the crime rate may be high, violent crimes in particular, the state is doing its job to protect its citizens through its crime and safety department. Overall, Tennessee is a great state to consider in moving in to.

How to Move to Tennessee

Moving can always turn into a dilemma when you’re not ready or prepared. In most cases, it happens when you don’t know what to do or who to call. Searching for a moving company that will suite your needs is essential and will make your move easier. Below are some tips to help you with your move or check our downloadable moving checklist :

1. Plan Ahead: The first step you always need to do is plan ahead. This will help you prepare and organize the things you have to do before your move.

2. Downsize: Downsizing means that you just need to assess about what to bring with you during your move. Check if its too much of a hassle to take it with you than buying a new one.

3. Get Moving Quotes: Most moving companies offer free moving quotes on their website. Knowing moving cost will help you be aware of the budget you need to have and pay when you move.

4. Book Movers: Booking movers are essential in having a successful relocation. They will help you move to your new location easier along with all your belongings safely and intact.

5. Visit Your New Area: Visiting your desired location will help you get familiar of your neighborhood you’re moving into. This will also help you go to your area much faster on your moving day.

6. Start Packing: Start to pack your things 2 weeks before your move by using moving boxes and supplies. This will prevent you from forgetting to bring important things with you.

7. Create Essential Box: An essential box is filled with things that you need with when you travel. This is important so that you don’t have to rummage all your bags or boxes for things such as wallet, tissues, snacks, etc.

8 Say Farewells: Make sure to say farewell to all the people in your neighborhood before you move. It will also help your friends, family or coworkers to contact you when something important comes up.

9. Get Some Rest: Rest is the most effective way to eliminate stress as moving can sometimes be really stressful. Catch enough sleep to make your mind alert and focus during your move.

10. Enjoy the Move: Lastly is to enjoy your moving day. Check if everything is pack and ready to go and then relax. Enjoy the views you will be passing as you start your new life on your chosen city.

Moving Services to help you relocate to Tennessee

• Movers unloading the truck and carrying moving boxes
• Movers helping in carrying moving boxes

Moving companies/specialist have various services to help you on what you need for your move. Below are some of the moving services they offer:

• Furniture Transportation: Moving furniture is sometimes difficult as most of them are heavy and fragile. Movers will help you move your furniture by handling them safely to your new home.
• Residential Movers: These movers are experts in moving you residentially. They will help you get to your area quickly with convenience.
• Piano Transportation: Pianos are very fragile and huge. Movers are both experts in these department and will help you transport your favorite piano to your new location safely.
• Art and Antiques Movers: Moving your art and antiques must be done with special handling. These types of movers are experts trained in handling fragile art and antiques.
• Hot Tub Movers: Hot tubs are expensive which is why most people bring it with them when they move. Hiring hot tub movers will move your hot tubs easily and install them to your new home.
• Pool Table Movers: Pool tables are huge which is why it will require special handling. Pool table movers will help you move it in your new home without a scratch.
• Office Mover: If you need assistance in relocating your office, then these movers are here to help. They will bring all your necessary things from your old office to your new one.
• Long Distance Movers: Relocating to long distances are sometimes a hassle. This is what long distance movers are experts on as they have trained and have special equipment to help you move.
• Last Minute Movers: Moving all of a sudden? Then last-minute movers are experts on the field. They will help you relocate without a hassle fast to your new neighborhood