What are the pros and cons of living in Tennessee?
Low taxes, hot summers, and a lot of Jesus.
Tennessee's a trade-off: no income tax and cheap living, but you'll sweat through July and the culture leans conservative and churchy.
Checked Sep 9
Why?
No state income tax You keep more of your paycheck, and property taxes are low, which is why retirees and remote workers flock here.
Cost of living is low Housing, groceries, and gas run below the national average, especially outside Nashville and Knoxville.
Summers are brutal Highs in the 90s with sticky humidity from June through September, and you'll run AC almost year-round.
Who is living in Tennessee right for?
Right for
- Remote workers keeping their out-of-state salary
- Retirees on a fixed income
- People who want a big house for little money
- Outdoor lovers who can handle heat
Wrong for
- People who hate humidity and 90-degree days
- Those who want strong tenant protections or unions
- LGBTQ+ folks seeking progressive urban pockets outside Nashville
- Anyone who needs frequent flights from a small airport
What does living in Tennessee cost in 2026?
| Figure | Value | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| State income tax | $0, 2026 | No state income tax on wages, which can save thousands a year. |
| Average home price | $320,000, 2026 | About 15% below the national median, but Nashville is higher. |
| Average property tax rate | 0.55% of home value, 2026 | One of the lowest in the country, so annual tax bills stay small. |
| Average summer high | 90°F, July 2026 | Humidity makes it feel like 100°F, and AC runs for months. |
| Sales tax rate | 9.5% average, 2026 | High sales tax offsets the lack of income tax, so you pay more at the register. |
What's the biggest living in Tennessee mistake?
The biggest mistake is moving to Tennessee for the low taxes without checking the hidden costs. You'll pay high sales tax, car registration fees, and often higher insurance rates, especially for homes and cars. Add in the AC bills and the fact that wages tend to be lower, and the savings shrink fast. Do the math on your actual spending before you pack.
How do you decide if living in Tennessee is right for you?
- Add up your state income tax savings for a year, then subtract the higher sales tax and insurance costs.
- Visit in July or August and spend a full day outside to feel the heat.
- Check home prices and property taxes in the specific county you're eyeing, since they vary a lot.
- Compare your current rent or mortgage to what you'd pay for a similar place in Tennessee.
People also ask
Which part of Tennessee are you thinking about?
It splits by region. West Tennessee is flat, hot, and more Southern; Middle Tennessee is booming Nashville sprawl; East Tennessee is mountains, cooler summers, and more conservative.
How important is the political climate to you?
Very important, if you lean left. Tennessee's politics are deeply red, and that shapes everything from local laws to social circles. If you're conservative, it's a plus; if not, it'll wear on you.
Can you handle the heat?
Yes, and it's the real deal. Summers run hot and humid, with many days above 90°F and high dew points. It's not a dry heat, and it lasts from June into September.
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