Why are People Moving to Tennessee? Examining Southern Moving Trends
Tennessee has become a top destination for people seeking a fresh start, thanks to its mix of natural beauty, vibrant cities, and welcoming communities. From the scenic Smoky Mountains to the thriving job markets in Nashville and Chattanooga, the state offers something for everyone. Affordable living costs, a mild climate, and no state income tax are major draws for families, retirees, and young professionals alike. Tennessee also boasts a rich cultural scene, excellent outdoor recreation, and strong educational institutions.
Whether you’re relocating for work, lifestyle, or a slower pace of life, moving to Tennessee presents an exciting opportunity to enjoy Southern hospitality and modern conveniences in one of America’s most dynamic and livable states.
1. Booming Inbound Migration
In the past year, Tennessee gained roughly 48,700 more residents from other states than it lost, continuing a years‑long surge of domestic relocation. Major origin states include California, New York, Illinois, and Texas, reflecting an exodus from higher‑cost regions into Tennessee’s more affordable environment.
2. Low Cost of Living & Affordable Homes
As of 2023–24, the median home price in Tennessee hovered around $380,000, significantly below the national average (≈ $420,000) and less than half of California’s median exceeding $800,000. With a cost‑of‑living index around 90.4 (10th most affordable state), daily expenses—from groceries to utilities—are notably lower.
3. No State Income Tax
Tennessee is one of just nine U.S. states without a state income tax on wages, and since 2021 it has eliminated its tax on interest and dividends completely. This tax‑friendly structure draws both employees and high-income earners from relocating from states like California and New York.
4. Diverse & Expanding Job Market
The Volunteer State boasts a fast‑growing economy powered by automotive manufacturing (Nissan, GM), logistics (FedEx), healthcare (HCA), tech (Oak Ridge National Lab, Nashville tech firms), finance and entertainment. Large employers like Oracle and Amazon have set up major operations in Nashville, boosting regional hiring. Middle Tennessee’s economy is among the fastest‑growing in the U.S.
5. Rich Culture, Music & Lifestyle
Tennessee is world‑renowned for its music heritage. Nashville is a global hub for country, rock, and recording; Memphis is famed for blues, R&B, and BBQ culture. Residents enjoy a thriving arts scene, live‑music venues, festivals, and Southern hospitality that enhance quality of life.
6. Scenic Nature & Outdoor Recreation
From the Great Smoky Mountains (America’s most visited national park) to rivers, lakes, and forested landscapes, Tennessee offers abundant outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, kayaking, and camping. Smaller cities like Johnson City, set near the Appalachians, are drawing newcomers with mountain views, low prices, and access to trails or breweries.
7. Ideal for Retirees & Remote Workers
Retirees are flocking to Tennessee thanks to no income tax on Social Security or retirement income, lower property taxes, and mild weather. Meanwhile, remote professionals move here to live in spacious, affordable homes (e.g. Knoxville, Chattanooga), often backing up to New York or California salary levels.
8. Central Location & Travel Access
Tennessee’s central U.S. location provides convenient access to many regions. Major cities like Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga and Franklin are hubs for flights, highways and interstates, facilitating travel for business, family or recreation.
9. City‑to‑Small‑Town Variety
From the energetic Nashville metro to mid‑size cities like Knoxville and Chattanooga, or more relaxed towns like Johnson City, Franklin or Murfreesboro, Tennessee offers lifestyle options to suit varied preferences—urban professionals, families, mountain lovers, or retirees alike
10.️ Business‑Friendly Policies & Incentives
Tennessee’s pro‑business environment—featuring tax incentives, right‑to‑work laws, low operational costs, and strategic economic planning—has attracted high‑profile relocations (e.g. Oracle from Austin) as well as significant investments by corporate HQs and manufacturers. Even executives like In‑N‑Out’s CEO cited Tennessee’s business climate and family‑friendly environment in relocating from California.
Moving Trends to Southern States
1. Rising Interest in Southern States
Nearly 46% of surveyed Americans considered relocating to a Southern state between March 2024 and March 2025—making the region the most popular relocation destination in the U.S.
2. The South Is the Only Region Gaining Domestic Movers
From 2023 to 2024, the U.S. Census confirmed that the South was the only U.S. region with positive net domestic migration—people still moving in exceeded those moving out.
3. Affordability Keeps Drawing Families and Singles
High cost-of-living in coastal states—especially California, New York, and parts of the Northeast—continues to push residents southward. Southern states rank much lower in housing prices, tax burdens, and daily expenses.
4. Tennessee Stands Out Among Top Destinations
Tennessee ranked third in net relocation interest in 2025, ahead of Florida, Alabama, and Texas. Many incoming residents cited job growth, low taxes, and manageable housing costs.
5. Smaller Southern Cities Are Gaining Traction
Mid-sized Southern metro areas—Chattanooga, Knoxville, Nashville, Johnson City—are capturing major inbound migration flows, especially from expensive coastal metros.
6. Shift from Large Metro to Lifestyle-Focused Areas
As remote work becomes standard, movers are leaning toward smaller, amenity-rich cities that offer outdoor access, lower congestion, and lifestyle value—such as Johnson City, TN.
7. Economic Drivers: Jobs, Tax Policy & Business Climate
States like Tennessee benefit from business-friendly environments, flat or no state income tax, and new corporate investments—drawing both enterprises and workers seeking opportunity.
Carey Moving & Storage: Trusted Knoxville Movers
Carey Moving & Storage has earned a trusted reputation for delivering reliable and stress-free relocation servicesacross Tennessee and beyond. With over 100 years of experience, our team is committed to providing top-notch residential, commercial, and long-distance moving solutions tailored to your needs.
Whether you’re transitioning locally within the city or embarking on a cross-country move, we handle every detail with professionalism and care. Our full-service offerings include expert packing, secure storage, and timely transportation to ensure a smooth moving experience from start to finish.
As one of the leading moving companies in Knoxville, Carey Moving & Storage takes pride in putting customers first—offering dependable service, competitive pricing, and the personalized support you deserve during every step of your journey.
Relocating to Tennessee? Trust Experts Who Know the Way!
As migration to Southern states continues to rise, more individuals and families are choosing Tennessee for its affordability, job opportunities, and vibrant communities. Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or a better quality of life, Carey Moving & Storage is here to make your transition smooth and stress-free. With 100+ years of experience and a deep understanding of regional moving logistics, we’re the trusted choice for those heading south.
Let us help you settle into your new home with ease and confidence. Contact us today for a free quote and discover how effortless your move to Tennessee can be!
You have been wonderful to work with. I was told you would be in contact with me during the move and you definitely kept the promise. It’s nice to know people meet and exceed expectations. Paul and I are happy with our experience and will definitely use you in the future should we move again.Thank you!
Melissa and Paul
Compliments to Everyone!I am very satisfied with driver Barney and Al. My compliments to everyone
Elizabeth
We are settled in, and have time to consider how easily the move was from Vonore, TN to Lansing, MI.The move not nearly as hectic as we thought it would be, this is in part due to the excellent performance by your people, namely Justin Schott the group leader. Justin had a handle on the entire move. Justin’s concerns were that the items be handled carefully and that they be placed where the client wanted them. Tim and Xavier are fine gentlemen, they too had the same concerns as Justin. Cody and Joe did their best to pack our goods so as to have little damage.The named are a credit to the Carey Moving Company. We are happy that we named you folks to do our transfer, thank you.
Frank and Mary Thomas
Pat-As mentioned we have not fully unpacked yet so hopefully all things are here. Other than that confirmation, the fellows who moved us were extremely courteous and mannerly. Much appreciated. They were very careful about not scratching the walls. They were also careful to ask where items should be placed. They arrived on time for delivery.
Renee
I would like the manager of the Arden office to know that the staff that handled our move into your storage facility was superb. Kim explained everything very clearly up front and there were no nasty surprises thereafter. Brian bossed the packing day and the loading day with ease and grace and I cannot tell you how relieved I was to know I was in good hands. The others, Lori, Doug, Tom, and Bob were also very good at what they do. Thank you. I look forward to delivery as soon as we find a place. Thank you.
Karen Coler, Hendersonville, NC
I received my shipment on Sunday Feb 23rd. All items were in perfect shape. It was a great experience working with your company. Patrick was very helpful and knowledgeable. Being that I was in South Carolina for a very short time, he succeeded in getting everything set up in a timely manner to be packed and put on the truck. The packers were very nice and efficient and obviously packed items very well. The driver was thoughtful and called me several times to assure me that my items were on the way. He was friendly and efficient when he dropped off the boxes. You were very kind and helpful every time I called with a question and quickly handled all the paperwork.Please pass on our thanks and appreciation to all the people involved in the transport of our items.
Leslie Stoecker
Hi again!I need to tell you that I am very pleased with the move. All is great!The gentlemen, Barnie and Allen were absolutely terrific. Very pleasant,careful, patient and hard working.I will recommend Allied for sure!Thanks, LoriHendersonville, NC to Westwood, MAMary Daniels