By Melanie Ortiz Reyes - Marketing Strategist - PrimeStreet.io
Move to Knoxville
Knoxville, tucked into the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, is a city where Southern charm meets modern energy. If you're considering a move to Knoxville, you’re stepping into a welcoming community with a growing economy, a vibrant arts scene, and endless natural beauty right outside your door. From its historic districts to riverfront developments, Knoxville is a place that offers something for everyone, whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, a family looking for room to grow, or a young professional searching for an affordable city with big-city amenities.
Known as the gateway to the Smokies, Knoxville blends outdoor adventure with the conveniences of urban living. Within minutes, you can go from walking along the Tennessee River to exploring scenic trails, fishing in mountain-fed streams, or visiting the country’s most visited national park: Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a city with a relaxed pace, four beautiful seasons, and a growing list of cultural attractions.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about living in Knoxville, from neighborhoods and real estate to jobs, entertainment, and day-to-day life.
What's Special About Knoxville?
Knoxville stands out for its mix of natural beauty, cultural depth, and affordability. It’s home to the University of Tennessee, which brings SEC sports, arts, and youthful energy to the city. It's also a hub for makers, entrepreneurs, and creatives thanks to a strong small-business ecosystem and iconic events like the Dogwood Arts Festival and Big Ears music festival.
Beyond its reputation as a friendly Southern city, Knoxville is surrounded by some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery. With rivers, mountains, and greenways everywhere, residents can enjoy hiking, kayaking, biking, and camping year-round.
Culture & Entertainment
Knoxville’s entertainment scene offers something for every personality. You’ll find concert venues, comedy clubs, historic theaters, and a constantly evolving lineup of festivals. Market Square is the heart of downtown, full of restaurants, live music, art galleries, and events happening nearly every weekend. The Tennessee Theatre and Bijou Theatre showcase everything from Broadway shows to symphonies.
The culinary scene has expanded tremendously over the past decade. From beloved Southern staples and farm-to-table experiences to breweries, craft coffee shops, and ethnic cuisine, Knoxville’s food culture is one of its biggest draws.
Economy
Knoxville has a diverse, steadily growing economy. While the University of Tennessee and healthcare systems are major anchors, the city is also a hub for technology, manufacturing, logistics, and energy research.
Top Employers
- University of Tennessee
- Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) – nearby and world-renowned
- Covenant Health
- Pilot/Flying J corporate headquarters
- Knox County Schools
- Amazon fulfillment centers
Growing Industries
- Energy & engineering
- Advanced manufacturing
- Biomedical research
- Logistics and distribution
- Hospitality and tourism
- Higher education and research
Low cost of living and business-friendly policies make Knoxville attractive for entrepreneurs, startups, and remote workers.
Real Estate Market
Knoxville’s housing market is known for its relative affordability compared to national averages. Whether you want a suburban home, urban loft, historic neighborhood, or mountain-view property, there’s a wide range of options.
Popular Property Types
- Single-family homes — the most common across suburban areas
- Condos & townhomes — especially near downtown and UT
- Historic homes — in Old North, Fourth & Gill, and Sequoyah Hills
- New construction — booming in Hardin Valley, Karns, and Farragut
- Investment properties — strong rental demand from students, professionals, and tourists
Affordability
Knoxville typically offers lower home prices and property taxes than many similarly sized metros. This makes it appealing for first-time buyers, retirees, and investors alike.
Investment Opportunities
Rental demand remains strong due to:
- UT student population
- Steady job growth
- Tourism and short-term rental demand
- New manufacturing and tech expansions
Between its accessibility, affordability, and high quality of life, Knoxville is a strong long-term market for homebuyers and investors.
Where to Live in Knoxville
Choosing the right neighborhood depends on your lifestyle, budget, and daily needs. Knoxville offers a wide range of residential settings that appeal to many types of buyers. You can find walkable urban districts with condos and townhomes that suit professionals, students, and anyone who prefers a close connection to downtown services. There are also established residential areas with mature trees, larger yards, and a traditional community feel. These settings often appeal to buyers who want a quieter pace while staying close to shopping and daily conveniences.
Knoxville also has fast-growing suburban communities with newer construction, planned developments, and access to well-regarded schools. These areas often attract buyers who need more space or who prefer modern layouts and updated amenities. In addition, some parts of the region offer homes with scenic views, larger lots, and a more rural atmosphere that appeals to buyers who value privacy and open surroundings.
Whether you want a compact home with low maintenance needs, a spacious property for a growing household, or a location that balances affordability with long-term value, Knoxville provides a wide range of choices. The variety of housing styles and settings makes it possible for buyers at many stages of life to find a place that fits both their budget and their vision for daily living.
Knox County
Knox County includes a wide mix of urban, suburban, and historic neighborhoods. Downtown Knoxville offers loft-style living, modern condos, and walkable access to restaurants and entertainment. Sequoyah Hills is known for its historic homes, tree-lined streets, and proximity to the river. Bearden provides a blend of older homes and convenient shopping corridors. Hardin Valley and Farragut feature newer developments, planned communities, and quick access to schools, parks, and retail centers. North Knoxville includes areas such as Fourth and Gill, Old North, and Happy Holler, which are known for character homes, revitalized districts, and a growing local business presence. South Knoxville continues to grow with both new construction and long-established neighborhoods that sit near greenways and outdoor recreation.
Blount County
Blount County features a mix of small towns, established neighborhoods, and scenic areas near the foothills. Maryville is known for well-kept neighborhoods, traditional subdivisions, and a strong community atmosphere. Alcoa offers convenience to the airport, updated developments, and access to nearby retail. Townsend sits closer to the national park and is known for quiet residential roads, mountain views, and homes with large lots. Across the county, buyers can find everything from long-standing neighborhoods with mature trees to newer construction that offers more space and modern layouts.
Jefferson County
Jefferson County is known for lakefront neighborhoods, historic districts, and rural communities with open space. Dandridge features homes near Douglas Lake, historic homes near the town center, and newer developments on the outskirts. Jefferson City includes residential areas near Carson Newman University as well as subdivisions that offer traditional layouts and convenient access to local shops. White Pine provides a small-town atmosphere with established neighborhoods and open surroundings. Many parts of the county appeal to people looking for access to Douglas Lake or Cherokee Lake along with peaceful, residential streets.
Hamblen County
Hamblen County includes Morristown and nearby communities with a broad range of established neighborhoods and newer subdivisions. Morristown features residential pockets with larger lots, long-standing homes, and easy proximity to local parks and businesses. Some areas have seen revitalization with updated properties, while others offer quiet streets and a traditional suburban feel. Rural surroundings outside Morristown include homes with acreage, open views, and more space between properties.
Cocke County
Cocke County offers a mix of rural communities, small-town neighborhoods, and mountain-adjacent properties. Newport includes established neighborhoods, in-town convenience, and access to local shops and services. Outlying areas offer cabin-style homes, wooded lots, and properties with long-range views. Many neighborhoods sit near the Appalachian Trail and other natural features, creating an attractive setting for people who want more land or a peaceful residential environment.
What Now?
Let us help!
Now that you are considering a move to Knoxville, this is a great time to start your real estate journey with the support of a knowledgeable local agent. Buying a home in the Knoxville area involves many steps, including contracts, timelines, and important financial decisions. Working with a skilled and trustworthy agent can make the process smoother, reduce stress, and help you move forward with confidence.
PrimeStreet partners with experienced real estate agents across the Knoxville region. These professionals understand the local neighborhoods, current housing trends, and the factors that shape today’s market. Their insight can guide you through each stage of your search so you can make informed decisions that fit your goals.
To get started, call us at 855-531-5347 or click on "Find an Agent" below and complete the form. A PrimeStreet team member will reach out for a quick conversation about your goals, your budget, and your preferred timeline. With that information, our matching technology will connect you with an agent in Knoxville who fits your needs and specializes in the type of property you want. The process only takes a few minutes.
A move to Knoxville is an exciting step. With the right agent by your side, you can navigate the process with clarity and feel confident in the choices ahead. Let us help you take the next step toward your new home in Knoxville.