Tennessee is a beautiful state renowned for its small towns, world-class music, and dining scenes. It is one of the top 10 fastest-growing states in the country. It was also crowned as the second-fastest growing economy in the country in 2023. With lower cost of living, affordable housing, quality education, world-class healthcare, and much more, the state has some of the best places to live in 2024.
If you are an international student studying in this world-class US state, this blog is just for you. This blog will identify the 5 best places to live in Tennessee in 2024. Keep reading further to know more.
Table of contents
Nashville: Music City
| 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 |
The state capital and largest city, Nashville is one of the best places to live in Tennessee. It is also known as the music city and a hub for music, culture, and entertainment. Home to prestigious universities like Vanderbilt University and Belmont University, Nashville offers a world-class education and quality of life for international students.
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.
Enjoy exploring these unique cafes in the USA? Check out our blog on 5 Ways for Effective International Student Networking in the USA!
Knoxville: College Town Vibes
| 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 |
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.
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
| 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 |
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.
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.
It is mandatory to be aware of the culture and etiquette of the country you are moving to. If you are planning to move to the USA, check out a Comprehensive Guide to American Culture Etiquette: Ease Your Academic Life!
Memphis: Rich History and Culture
| 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 |
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.
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
| 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 |
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.
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.
FAQs on Best Places to Live in Tennessee in 2024
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.
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!
Hope you liked reading our blog about the best places to live in Tennessee. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal accommodation abroad with ease.
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