Home Sweet Home: Best Places to Live in East Tennessee

LOOKING FOR THE BEST PLACES TO LIVE IN EAST TENNESSEE? I’VE CALLED TENNESSEE HOME FOR OVER 20 YEARS, LET ME SHOW YOU AROUND!

If you’re considering a move and wondering about the best places to live in East Tennessee, you’re in the right spot. As someone who’s called Tennessee home for over two decades, I’ve spent plenty of time exploring its towns, cities, and those charming little spots you might miss on a map.

Whether you’re drawn to the Smoky Mountains, love small-town living, or want the convenience of a lively city, East Tennessee has something for everyone.

In this post, I’ll walk you through:

• Top Cities and Small Towns
• Family-friendly Communities
• Retirement and Affordable Options
• Things to Know Before Moving

By the end, you’ll have a much clearer idea of where you might want to plant your roots in this beautiful part of the South.

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Why Consider Living in East Tennessee?

East Tennessee has a way of winning people over. It’s the kind of place where mountain views never get old, neighbors still wave when you pass by, and life just feels a little slower — in the best way.

Here are a few reasons folks fall in love with living here:

Natural Beauty All Around

The Smoky Mountains are the star of the show, but they’re just the beginning. You’ll find rolling hills, scenic lakes, and winding rivers that make outdoor adventures a part of everyday life.

Affordable Cost of Living

Compared to many other parts of the country, East Tennessee is easy on the wallet. Housing prices, property taxes, and overall living expenses tend to be much lower than the national average.

Outdoor Lifestyle

If you enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, or even just a peaceful mountain drive, you’ll never run out of things to do. East Tennessee makes it easy to stay active and enjoy nature year-round.

Southern Charm & Friendly Communities

People here are proud of their hometowns. You’ll find tight-knit communities where folks look out for each other and hospitality isn’t just a word — it’s a way of life.

Growing Job Opportunities

While East Tennessee has always been known for tourism, healthcare, education, and manufacturing are strong industries here too. Some areas are even seeing growth in tech and remote work opportunities.

Mild, Four-Season Climate

You’ll get to enjoy all four seasons — spring blooms, warm summers, colorful fall foliage, and mild winters. It’s just enough variety without the harsh extremes.

Best Cities and Towns to Live in East Tennessee

If you’re thinking about making East Tennessee home, these are the cities and towns you’ll want to have on your radar. Each one has its own personality, so it’s all about finding the right fit for your lifestyle.

Knoxville

Knoxville offers the best of both worlds — big city perks with a laid-back, small-town feel. Home to the University of Tennessee, this city has a vibrant downtown, tons of events, and a strong sense of community pride. Outdoor lovers can hit the trails at Ijams Nature Center or paddle along the Tennessee River, while foodies will love exploring Market Square.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga has made a name for itself as an outdoor adventure hub and a growing tech town. The revitalized riverfront, charming art district, and thriving food scene make it a favorite for young professionals and families alike. Plus, it’s got some of the fastest internet speeds in the country thanks to its “Gig City” status.

TRAVELISTA TIP: Chattanooga is one of my absolute favorite Tennessee cities! If you are considering a move here, you will not be disappointed. It is a small town feel with big city amenities.

Johnson City

Tucked into the foothills of the Appalachians, Johnson City is a gem for those wanting a slower pace without giving up modern conveniences. It’s known for its family-friendly vibe, affordable housing, and easy access to outdoor adventures like hiking and boating.

Maryville

Just a short drive from Knoxville, Maryville is perfect if you’re looking for a quieter, suburban lifestyle with easy access to the city and the Smokies. It’s known for being safe, family-friendly, and a favorite among retirees, too.

Kingsport

Kingsport is a solid choice for those who want small-town charm with practical living. It’s an affordable place to call home with a strong community focus, and it’s especially popular with retirees and families. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Greenbelt trail system that winds through town.

Sevierville & Pigeon Forge

If you love being close to the action, these neighboring towns are at the heart of East Tennessee’s tourism scene. While they’re famous for attractions like Dollywood and outlet malls, they also have peaceful residential areas tucked away from the crowds. Living here gives you easy access to the Smokies and a strong sense of community.

TRAVELISTA TIP: Consider booking this tour of the Sevierville/Pigeon Forge area to get a more comprehensive layout of the area and its history.

Oak Ridge

Known as the “Secret City” because of its Manhattan Project history, Oak Ridge has grown into a family-friendly community with a strong focus on education and science. It’s home to several national research facilities and offers a good mix of suburban living with economic opportunities.

Best Small Towns to Live in East Tennessee

If you’re drawn to quiet streets, slower days, and tight-knit communities, East Tennessee has some incredible small towns to call home. These places offer charm, character, and that neighborly feel you just don’t get everywhere.

Jonesborough

Tennessee’s oldest town is full of history and heart. Jonesborough is known for its well-preserved downtown, charming shops, and being the storytelling capital of the world. It’s the kind of place where you’ll actually get to know your neighbors and look forward to community festivals year-round.

Greeneville

Nestled in the foothills of the Smokies, Greeneville is rich in Appalachian history and surrounded by mountain views. It’s affordable, peaceful, and has a lovely mix of historic homes, farmland, and nature. It’s also the hometown of President Andrew Johnson if you’re into presidential trivia!

Lenoir City

Located just outside of Knoxville, Lenoir City gives you lake access, small-town friendliness, and quick access to shopping, dining, and healthcare. It’s perfect if you want laid-back living with the option to pop into the city when you need to.

Elizabethton

Tucked into the mountains near Johnson City, Elizabethton offers beautiful views, a historic covered bridge downtown, and access to some of the best hiking and waterfalls in the region. It’s affordable and has that cozy, close-knit community feel.

Best Places to Live Near the Mountains

If waking up to mountain views sounds like your dream life, East Tennessee has you covered. These towns offer easy access to the Smokies and nearby ranges, making them perfect for folks who love hiking, nature, and a slower pace of life.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is right at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park — and it shows. With stunning mountain views, endless outdoor activities, and a tourist-driven economy, it’s a place where you can live surrounded by nature while still having plenty to do. It’s busy during peak seasons, but many locals live just outside the hustle in quieter residential pockets.

TRAVELISTA TIP: One of the best parts about living in Gatlinburg is the proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! When checking out the area, grab this self-guided driving tour to really fall in love with the mountains!

Townsend

Known as the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies,” Townsend is a quieter, less crowded alternative to Gatlinburg. It’s popular with retirees and nature lovers who want a calm, beautiful place to call home. You won’t find big attractions here. Just mountain views, river tubing, and wide-open spaces.

Johnson City

While Johnson City already made our list of top cities, it earns another mention here for its mountain access. Surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains, it’s just a short drive to places like Roan Mountain, Buffalo Mountain, and Watauga Lake. You’ll get the best of both worlds… city amenities with a mountain town feel.

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Top Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in East Tennessee

If you’re planning a move with kids in tow, East Tennessee has several neighborhoods that check all the right boxes—great schools, safe streets, and a strong sense of community. Here are a few standout areas that local families love calling home.

Signal Mountain (Chattanooga Suburb)

Just 15 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, Signal Mountain feels like a world away in the best way. Perched above the city with gorgeous views and winding roads, it’s known for its top-rated schools, outdoor access, and tight-knit neighborhoods. Families love the peaceful, small-town feel with quick access to city amenities when needed.

Farragut (Knoxville Suburb)

Farragut is one of Knoxville’s most popular suburban communities, and it’s not hard to see why. With excellent schools, beautiful neighborhoods, and tons of shopping and dining nearby, it’s a favorite for families who want it all—convenience, space, and a strong community vibe.

Sequoyah Hills (Knoxville Neighborhood)

If you’re looking for a family-friendly neighborhood that’s closer to downtown Knoxville, Sequoyah Hills is a gem. It’s known for its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and riverfront park with miles of walking trails and green space. The neighborhood also has a strong community feel and easy access to schools and downtown activities.

TRAVELISTA TIP: If you are looking for a family-friendly city a little closer to Nashville, be sure to check out Murfreesboro and all that it has to offer!

Best Places to Retire in East Tennessee

East Tennessee has become a popular retirement destination, and it’s easy to see why. With mild weather, affordable living, and beautiful scenery, it’s the kind of place where retirement feels like a fresh start, not a slowdown. These towns stand out as some of the best places to enjoy this next chapter of life.

Maryville

Maryville consistently ranks as one of the top spots to retire in Tennessee. It offers a peaceful pace of life, beautiful mountain views, and easy access to Knoxville’s healthcare and amenities. The town has a friendly, welcoming feel and a strong sense of community, which makes it ideal for retirees who want to stay active and involved.

Oak Ridge

Oak Ridge already made our list earlier, but it deserves another mention here—especially if you’re thinking about retirement. This well-planned town offers quiet neighborhoods, excellent healthcare, and a strong sense of community. It’s also home to beautiful parks and recreation areas that make staying active in retirement easy and enjoyable.

Greeneville

If you’re looking for true small-town charm with a slower pace, Greeneville is a great fit. It’s surrounded by mountains and farmland, with a walkable downtown and a close-knit community. Housing is very affordable, and the peaceful setting makes it especially popular with retirees looking to simplify.

Most Affordable Places to Live in East Tennessee

One of the biggest draws to East Tennessee is just how far your money can go. These towns have already shown up on my list for other reasons, but they also stand out when it comes to affordability. If you’re looking to stretch your budget without sacrificing quality of life, these are great places to consider.

Sevierville

I’ve already mentioned Sevierville as a lively spot near the Smoky Mountains and a hub for tourism and short-term rentals, but it also offers surprisingly affordable living for the area. While housing prices can vary closer to the main strip, there are plenty of reasonably priced homes just a few miles out that give you both space and value.

Greeneville

Greeneville has already shown up as a great pick for both retirees and small-town living. It’s also one of the most affordable places in the entire region. From low home prices to minimal traffic and a lower cost of daily living, it’s ideal for anyone trying to keep expenses down.

Maryville

Maryville made my list earlier for being both family-friendly and a top retirement pick, but it’s also a great value for what you get. While it’s grown in popularity, prices here still tend to be more affordable than other Knoxville-area suburbs, especially when you factor in the quality of schools, safety, and mountain access.

Things to Consider Before Moving to East Tennessee

Before you pack up and head for the mountains, it’s worth thinking through a few important factors. East Tennessee is a beautiful place to live, but like anywhere, it comes with its own quirks and considerations. Here’s what to keep in mind as you weigh your options:

Job Market Varies by Area

While cities like Knoxville and Chattanooga offer more job opportunities, some of the smaller towns lean heavily on tourism or manufacturing. If you work remotely, great! If not, you’ll want to do a little research on job availability in your field.

Tourist Traffic Is Real in Some Areas

Towns like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville see heavy visitor traffic—especially during peak seasons. Living just outside the tourist zone can give you the best of both worlds: mountain access without the congestion.

Weather Can Be a Mix

East Tennessee has all four seasons, but it’s also known for quick weather shifts and high humidity in the summer. Winters are usually mild, but you’ll still want to be ready for the occasional snow or ice.

Public Transportation Is Limited

Outside of the larger cities, public transportation options are slim. In most towns, you’ll need a reliable car to get around comfortably.

Some Areas Are More Rural Than Others

If you’re used to big-city living, some parts of East Tennessee may feel more spread out or limited in amenities. But for many, that slower pace is part of the charm.

TRAVELISTA TIP: When considering a move to one of these small Tennessee towns, I highly recommend spending a weekend there in person! Some of these areas are so small that even a local Walmart can only be found in a neighboring town. If access to these amenities are important to you, you will want to know before a move!

Healthcare Access Varies

Major cities like Knoxville and Chattanooga have strong healthcare networks, but in smaller towns, you may need to travel a bit for specialized care. It’s something to think about, especially for retirees or families with specific health needs.

Living in Tennessee: Tips from a Local

Even after living in Tennessee for over 20 years, I still find things I love about this state, especially Eastern Tennessee. If you’re seriously thinking about making the move, here are a few tips that might help you settle in a little faster and get the most out of life here.

Get Ready to Slow Down (In a Good Way)

Life moves a little slower here, and that’s not a bad thing. People tend to take their time, strike up conversations in the grocery store, and wave at strangers. If you’re used to a fast pace, it might take a minute to adjust, but you’ll probably end up loving it.

You’ll Need a Good Car and a Sense of Direction

Outside of the bigger cities, everything is pretty spread out. You’ll definitely want a reliable car, especially if you’re living in a smaller town. And be warned: GPS doesn’t always get it right on those winding mountain roads!

Embrace the Outdoors

Hiking, fishing, camping, kayaking—you name it, East Tennessee has it. Even if you’ve never considered yourself the outdoorsy type, you might surprise yourself once you see those views. Try a waterfall hike or a drive through the Smokies. You’ll be hooked!

Learn the Local Quirks

Yes, people say “y’all,” and no one blinks an eye at sweet tea being served by the gallon. You’ll also hear things like “bless your heart” (which can mean different things depending on the tone) and references to local high school football rivalries like they’re national news.

Be Prepared for Mixed Weather

You can experience all four seasons here—sometimes in a single week. Keep your rain boots and your sunglasses handy, and don’t be surprised if you’re wearing shorts in February and a jacket in April.

Get Involved Locally

Whether it’s a church group, running club, or community event, getting involved is the best way to feel at home fast. Tennessee folks are friendly, but it’s up to you to jump in and make connections.

TRAVELISTA TIP: Many towns have Facebook groups that you can join to get more of a feel of the area from locals. It is a good way to scout out a destination from a far before you even visit.

Planning a Trip to Tennessee to Explore These Areas

If you’re seriously thinking about relocating, one of the best things you can do is plan a trip to explore a few of these towns in person. Photos and blog posts are helpful (and I hope this one has been!), but there’s nothing like walking the streets, chatting with locals, and getting a real feel for the community.

Spend a weekend in one of the small towns. Drive through the neighborhoods. Grab a coffee downtown or take a stroll through the local park. It’s the kind of research that feels more like a vacation. It can help you make a more confident decision about where to put down roots.

Need help planning your trip? I’d love to help.

As a travel professional who specializes in the South, I can help you build a custom itinerary based on the towns you want to explore. From finding the right hotels or Airbnbs to planning scenic drives and local stops, I’ll make the whole process easier (and more fun!).

Click the button below to start planning your Tennessee scouting trip with me.
Let’s get you one step closer to finding your next home!

Final Thoughts: Best Places to Live in East Tennessee

East Tennessee really is a special part of the South. Between the mountain views, the slower pace of life, and the welcoming communities, it’s easy to see why so many people are choosing to call this region home.

Whether you’re looking for a busy city with things to do, a quiet small town with charm, or something in between, East Tennessee has a little bit of everything. And the best part? You don’t have to figure it all out alone.

If you’re thinking about taking the next step, I’d love to help you plan a trip to explore these areas for yourself. It’s the best way to get a feel for what life could really look like here.

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