The Best Places to Live in Tennessee provide options whether you’re seeking a bustling city atmosphere or a quiet suburban retreat. Tennessee is a state rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its music, food, and vibrant communities, Tennessee offers a variety of places that cater to different lifestyles. Here are some of the best places to live in Tennessee:
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Nashville: Music City
Nashville, the state capital and largest city in Tennessee, is widely regarded as one of the best places to live in the state. Known as the “Music City,” it serves as a vibrant hub for music, culture, and entertainment. With renowned institutions such as Vanderbilt University and Belmont University, Nashville provides international students with exceptional educational opportunities, a high quality of life, and top-notch student accommodations in the USA.
| Housing cost-to-income ratio | 5.12% |
| Average childcare cost-to-income ratio | 2.18% |
| Violent crime index | 54.6 |
| Nonviolent crime index | 53.3 |
| Cost of living index | 101.4 |
With its vibrant music scene, delicious cuisine, and bustling nightlife, Nashville gets about 49 inches of rain, 4 inches of snow, and 208 sunny days per year which makes each season distinct and unique. Some of the major tourist attractions like Nolensville, Gallatin, and Hendersonville are surrounded by famous restaurants and cafes in the USA to tempt your taste buds during outings.
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Knoxville: College Town Vibes
Knoxville is one of the best places to live in Tennessee conveniently located at an ideal location on 30 miles away from Great Smoky Mountains National Park and surrounded by easily accessible lakes. The third largest city in Tennessee is home to the University of Tennessee and is renowned for providing quality education and world-class facilities. Also there exists a wide range of student accommodations options near University of Tennessee.
| Housing cost-to-income ratio | 4.91% |
| Average childcare cost-to-income ratio | 2.23% |
| Violent crime index | 44.9 |
| Nonviolent crime index | 81.5 |
| Cost of living index | 85.5 |
With a blend of urban amenities and outdoor adventures, the city hosts various cultural events, festivals, and outdoor markets, providing ample opportunities for international students. You will have a friendly neighbourhood in a politically conservative city with a home to 100 restaurants. Knoxville averages about 50 inches of rain, 6 inches of snow, and 204 sunny days per year. Don’t miss witnessing some of the incredible summer and music festivals in the USA hosted by this beautiful city of college town vibes.
Chattanooga: Scenic Beauty
With its ideal location in the southeast, along the Georgia border, Chattanooga is another best places to live in Tennessee. This city is renowned for providing ample employment opportunities with key players like BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, Amazon, Covenant Transport, and Volkswagen Group of America.
| Housing cost-to-income ratio | 5.26% |
| Average childcare cost-to-income ratio | 1.57% |
| Violent crime index | 50.3 |
| Nonviolent crime index | 83 |
| Cost of living index | 83.8 |
Chattanooga is also known as the scenic city with an average of 51 inches of rain, 2 inches of snow, and 207 sunny days per year. The presence of universities like the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga makes it an attractive destination for students seeking a balance between academics and outdoor activities. From hiking and rock climbing to exploring its vibrant arts scene and historic landmarks, Chattanooga offers a unique blend of adventure and culture.
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Memphis: Rich History and Culture
If you’re drawn to the rich history and vibrant culture of the South or identify yourself as a history enthusiast, Memphis is one of the best places to live in Tennessee. It is home to iconic attractions like Graceland, Beale Street, and the National Civil Rights Museum. With an average of 54 inches of rain, 3 inches of snow, and 218 sunny days per year, this second-largest city in Tennessee will provide you with a unique experience.
| Housing cost-to-income ratio | 4.97% |
| Average childcare cost-to-income ratio | 1.31% |
| Violent crime index | 85.7 |
| Nonviolent crime index | 81.1 |
| Cost of living index | 77.5 |
The city is home to some of the largest and most beautiful parks in the USA like Shelby Farms Park, Memphis Botanic Garden, and many more. With major key players like FedEx Corporation, Shelby County Schools, Methodist Le Bonheur Health Care, Baptist Memorial Healthcare Corp., and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, international students can also do some part-time flexible jobs in the city.
Clarksville: The Franklin
For those seeking a quieter and more picturesque setting, Clarksville is one of the best places to live in Tennessee with its historic downtown, scenic parks, and proximity to Nashville’s amenities. With 51 inches of rain, 5 inches of snow, and 210 sunny days, the city is renowned to be one of the safest cities to live in the USA.
| Housing cost-to-income ratio | 3.67% |
| Average childcare cost-to-income ratio | 1.01% |
| Violent crime index | 35.2 |
| Nonviolent crime index | 41.2 |
| Cost of living index | 85.6 |
This bustling town is known as ‘the Franklin’ to locals. Conveniently located just a 40-minute drive from Nashville on the Kentucky border, this is one of the best places to live in Tennessee. It is home to several key attractions like Dunbar Cave State Park, a 144-acre protected area with hiking trails, abundant wildlife, prehistoric cave art, and the snaking Cumberland River.
Why Tennessee is the Best Place to Live
Tennessee has become a top choice for people looking to relocate, and for good reason. Here are some compelling reasons why Tennessee is the best place to live:
- Affordable Cost of Living: Tennessee consistently ranks as one of the most affordable states in the U.S., with low housing costs and no state income tax.
- Economic Growth: The state has a robust economy with thriving industries in healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and entertainment.
- Quality of Life: Residents enjoy a balance of urban conveniences and access to nature, including the Great Smoky Mountains and numerous lakes.
- Cultural Diversity: From the blues and barbecue of Memphis to the country music of Nashville, Tennessee offers a rich cultural experience.
- Community and Safety: Many cities and towns in Tennessee are known for their strong sense of community and low crime rates.
With its blend of economic opportunities, cultural richness, and natural beauty, Tennessee offers an unparalleled quality of life.
Tips to Choose the Best Place to Live in Tennessee
Finding the right place to live in Tennessee can feel overwhelming, given the state’s many attractive options. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:
- Consider Your Lifestyle: Decide if you prefer urban excitement, suburban comfort, or rural tranquility.
- Evaluate Job Opportunities: Research the job market in your field to find cities with the best prospects.
- Assess School Options: If you have children, check out the quality of schools and educational programs in the area.
- Think About Transportation: Look at commute times and access to public transportation, especially if you’ll be working in a city.
- Visit Potential Areas: Spend time exploring different cities and neighborhoods to get a feel for their vibe and amenities.
Taking the time to evaluate your priorities and needs will help you find the perfect place to call home in Tennessee.
FAQs on Best Places to Live in Tennessee in 2025
Some of the best places to live in Tennessee in 2024 are Nashville, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Memphis, and Franklin.
Most universities in Tennessee offer on-campus housing options such as dorm rooms and apartments specifically for international students. Off-campus housing, including apartments and shared housing, is also widely available near university campuses.
Many international students find part-time employment opportunities on or near their university campuses. However, Keep checking the university’s international student services office for information on work regulations and opportunities available to international students.
Tennessee has public transportation systems such as buses and trolleys, making it relatively easy to get around without a car. Some cities also have bike-sharing programs and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. Additionally, many universities offer shuttle services for students.
The cost of living in Tennessee may vary depending on the city and lifestyle. Generally, Tennessee is considered to have a lower cost of living compared to many other states in the U.S. The estimated cost of living in Tennessee is USD 3539 to USD 4500.
Nashville offers a thriving job market, a vibrant arts and culture scene, world-class music, and great educational opportunities, making it a highly desirable location.
Nashville stands out with its booming job market, particularly in healthcare, technology, and entertainment. Knoxville and Chattanooga also offer growing opportunities in various industries.
Nashville is a culinary hotspot, with a mix of Southern comfort food, international cuisine, and trendy food markets. Memphis also boasts its famous BBQ scene.
Regardless of where you choose to live in Tennessee, each city offers its own unique blend of culture, opportunities, and experiences for international students. Tennessee welcomes you with open arms, ready to make your study abroad experience unforgettable!
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