Is Tennessee a Good Place to Live? 10 Pros and Cons of Renting in Tennessee

Tennessee has a charm that draws people in with its Southern hospitality, music scene, and beautiful landscapes. Known as the birthplace of country music and home to the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee has affordable living that makes it a great place to call home. But like any place, Tennessee has its ups and downs. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of living in Tennessee to help you decide if it’s the right place for you.

Is Tennessee a good place to live?

Tennessee life brings together the energy of city living with the peace of the countryside, making it a state that truly has something for everyone. The state’s major cities—Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga—are full of music, arts, barbecue and blues. Tennessee’s economy is fueled by a variety of industries, including healthcare, automotive manufacturing, and tourism, with major employers like FedEx, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and Nissan North America.

With no state income tax, Tennessee is popular among those looking for financial savings. But it’s not just about affordability—Tennessee’s natural beauty is legendary. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited in the country, and the state is dotted with rivers, lakes, and hiking trails that make outdoor recreation accessible to everyone. If you’re considering moving to Tennessee, here are some of the most notable pros and cons of renting in the Volunteer State.

Tennessee overview

1. Pro: A music lover’s paradise

Living in Tennessee means having a front-row seat to some of the best live music in the country. Nashville isn’t just the “Country Music Capital”—it’s a hotspot for genres from rock to jazz, with honky-tonk bars and street musicians on almost every corner. Memphis brings its own musical legacy with blues clubs on Beale Street, while the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in Manchester attracts thousands each summer.

Insider scoop: You’ll want to hit up Nashville’s Bluebird Cafe, a cozy venue where up-and-coming (and famous) songwriters test out their new hits—this is where Taylor Swift got discovered.

2. Con: Beware of ‘hot chicken’ burn

Tennessee is proud of its spicy cuisine, especially Nashville hot chicken, a fiery fried dish slathered in a signature spice blend. But beware, it packs a punch. Trying the hottest version might feel like a rite of passage, but even locals have fallen victim to the burn.

Insider scoop: At Prince’s Hot Chicken, the “extra hot” is reserved for the truly daring—don’t say we didn’t warn you.

3. Pro: Outdoor adventures around every corner

From the Great Smoky Mountains to waterfalls and winding rivers, Tennessee is an outdoor dream. Not only can you hike to epic viewpoints, but you can also camp, kayak, and fish. The outdoors are also very close to the city. Nashville’s Radnor Lake State Park and Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness provide outdoor retreats just minutes from downtown.

Insider scoop: Head to Cummins Falls State Park, where you can hike through a gorge to reach a stunning waterfall and swimming hole.

4. Con: Wild weather and tornado season

One downside of living in Tennessee is the risk of tornadoes, especially during spring and early summer. While Tennessee doesn’t see tornadoes as frequently as some other Southern states, the storms can still be intense, particularly in the western and central parts of the state. Tornado warnings and watches are common during peak season, which can be unsettling for newcomers, and residents need to be prepared with emergency kits and plans. 

5. Pro: Legendary BBQ and Southern eats

In Tennessee, BBQ isn’t just food—it’s a lifestyle. Memphis-style BBQ is all about the slow-cooked, dry-rubbed ribs, while Nashville loves its hot chicken. Food trucks, diners, and upscale eateries serve Southern staples with a twist, meaning you’re never far from your next delicious meal.

Insider scoop: Try the BBQ nachos in Memphis—it’s a local favorite, topped with tender smoked pork, and it’s as addictive as it sounds.

6. Con: High humidity in the summer heat

Summers in Tennessee can be a challenge for those not used to intense heat and humidity. From June through August, temperatures frequently climb into the high 80s and 90s degree Faranheit, with humidity that can make it feel even warmer. This thick, sticky heat often leads to that “sweltering” feeling, making outdoor activities uncomfortable unless you’re near water or in shaded areas. 

7. Pro: No state income tax

One of Tennessee’s greatest financial advantages is its lack of a state income tax, allowing residents to keep more of their hard-earned money. This tax-friendly perk draws people from all over, eager to stretch their income further and enjoy a more budget-friendly lifestyle.

8. Con: Limited public transit

In Tennessee, public transportation options are limited outside of a few bus routes in cities like Nashville and Memphis. Owning a car is practically essential for getting around, especially in smaller towns or suburbs.

Insider scoop: Nashville’s B-cycle program offers rentable bikes around the city. It’s a fun way to explore the downtown area without having to deal with parking.

9. Pro: Festivals and fairs galore

From the Bonnaroo Music Festival to Knoxville’s Dogwood Arts Festival and the Tennessee State Fair, this state loves a good festival. Residents can experience everything from country fairs with deep-fried goodies to massive music festivals that attract visitors from around the world.

Insider scoop: Tennessee’s Mule Day in Columbia is a quirky annual celebration dating back to the 1840s, where you’ll find mule-pulling contests, crafts, and delicious food. It’s a unique piece of Tennessee culture you won’t find anywhere else.

10. Con: Allergy season strikes hard

Tennessee is beautiful, but it’s also pollen-heavy, especially in spring when the dogwoods and wildflowers bloom. Seasonal allergies can be rough here, so renters with sensitivities should be prepared for sneezy springs.

Pros and cons of living in Tennessee: Overview