Tennessee is a place where history meets modern growth, creating an environment that appeals to a wide range of renters. Whether you’re drawn to Memphis, where the legacy of blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll still pulses through Beale Street, or Knoxville, with its rolling hills and outdoor recreation, each city has something distinct to offer. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of living in Tennessee, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect before making the move to the “Volunteer State.”
Renting in Tennessee snapshot
1. Pro: Musical beats fill the entire state
From the electrifying rhythms of Beale Street in Memphis to the country twang spilling out of every honky-tonk in Nashville, music isn’t just entertainment in Tennessee—it’s part of daily life. Nashville, famously known as “Music City,” is home to the Grand Ole Opry, where country legends take the stage, and the Ryman Auditorium, a venue with acoustics so perfect it has hosted everyone from Johnny Cash to modern rock bands. Meanwhile, Memphis is where blues and rock ‘n’ roll made history, with Sun Studio launching the careers of icons like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash, and Stax Records pioneering soul music with Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes.
2. Con: Weather in Tennessee can be a wild ride
If you love a little unpredictability, Tennessee’s weather won’t disappoint. The state experiences everything from severe thunderstorms and tornadoes to unexpected snowfalls and sweltering heat waves. Spring storms roll through with heavy rains and flash floods, especially in Middle Tennessee, while summer brings suffocating humidity hat can make a short walk feel like a marathon. Fall offers a brief but glorious stretch of crisp air and colorful foliage before winter arrives with its own surprises—sometimes mild, sometimes dumping inches of snow that shut down entire cities.
3. Pro: From smoky mountain peaks to rolling rivers
Whether you’re craving adrenaline-pumping rapids or a peaceful hike through the woods, Tennessee is a good place to live. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the country, with scenic trails, waterfalls, and misty peaks that seem straight out of a postcard. The Ocoee River attracts whitewater rafters looking for an intense ride, while the Cumberland Plateau offers rugged terrain for rock climbing and backcountry camping. If fishing or boating is more your style, the Tennessee River and its countless lakes provide endless opportunities to cast a line or paddle along its waters.
4. Con: Allergy season will have you reaching for tissues
If you struggle with seasonal allergies, Tennessee might put your immune system to the test. Thanks to the state’s rich biodiversity and fluctuating weather, pollen counts can reach staggering levels in both spring and fall. Oak, maple, and birch trees release waves of pollen in the spring, followed by grasses in the summer and ragweed in the fall, making for nearly year-round allergy misery. Cities like Knoxville and Chattanooga are known for their allergy levels, so stocking up on air purifiers is a must.
5. Pro: Living here is easier on your wallet
With no state income tax and housing prices that are often lower than the national average, Tennessee makes it possible to live comfortably without stretching your budget to the breaking point. Homeownership is especially affordable in cities like Memphis, where the median sale price is $185,000, and rent for a one-bedroom averages $1,124. More affordable housing can be found in cities like Pigeon Forge, but generally Tennessee remains budget-friendly compared to cities on the East or West Coasts. Additionally, the cost of living including groceries, utilities, and transportation costs also tend to be lower than the national average.
6. Con: Life in rural Tennessee can feel isolated
Living in the countryside comes with stunning views and a slower pace of life, but it can also mean long drives just to grab groceries or visit the doctor. Many rural areas lack reliable public transportation, making a car an absolute necessity. Broadband internet access can be spotty, which can be frustrating for remote workers or anyone who relies on fast connections. And while the tight-knit communities in these areas are welcoming, some residents find the lack of social opportunities and entertainment options isolating.
7. Pro: Southern hospitality is alive and well
A handshake, a smile, and a “How y’all doing?” aren’t just politeness—they’re said every day in Tennessee. Neighbors often lend a helping hand, whether it’s fixing a fence or bringing over a plate of homemade barbecue. Many towns host frequent festivals, potlucks, and parades, making it easy to connect with others. Additionally, volunteerism is strong, with plenty of opportunities to get involved in local charities, disaster relief efforts, and community improvement projects.
8. Con: Getting around without a car is a challenge
If you’re used to reliable public transit, Tennessee might come as a shock. Outside of a few bus and trolley systems in larger cities like Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville, public transportation is practically nonexistent. Chattanooga, for example, has a transit score of just 18, meaning getting around without a car can be time-consuming and frustrating.
9. Pro: Keeping more of your money is easy
Not having to pay state income tax means Tennessee residents get to keep more of their hard-earned money. Whether you’re working a 9-to-5 job or running your own business, this tax-friendly policy allows you to save more of your earnings. While Tennessee does have a higher-than-average sales tax, the savings on income tax often outweigh the extra costs, making it a great place to settle.
10. Con: The hot and humid summers are extreme
Tennessee summers don’t just get hot—they get sticky. The air can feel thick enough to swim through, with humidity levels often making temperatures in the high 80s and 90s feel even more oppressive. Air conditioning isn’t just a luxury—it’s a survival tool, and summer storms frequently bring sudden downpours that only add to the steamy atmosphere. If you’re planning to spend time outside, staying hydrated and finding shade are essential. The upside? Warm summer nights are perfect for backyard barbecues, fireflies glowing in the air, and music festivals that carry on well after sunset.
11. Pro: Sports are on another level here
Whether it’s college football, professional hockey, or stock car racing, Tennessee fans take their sports seriously. The University of Tennessee Volunteers command massive crowds in Knoxville, with Neyland Stadium regularly packing in over 100,000 fans. Memphis is home to the NBA’s Grizzlies, where “Grit and Grind” basketball keeps the energy high, while Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena erupts with excitement when the Predators hit the ice. NASCAR fans flock to Bristol Motor Speedway, one of the most intense short tracks in the sport.
12. Con: Water quality can be a concern
While Tennessee has plenty of freshwater sources, not all of them are as clean as they should be. Agricultural runoff, industrial pollution, and aging infrastructure have led to contamination issues in several areas. The Tennessee River, a key water source for many communities, has struggled with pollution from manufacturing plants, while some rural areas rely on well water that isn’t always properly monitored.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide
