Tips For Moving to Tennessee That You Didn’t Think You Needed to Know
If you are thinking about moving to Tennessee, make sure you go through this article. We explain all the tips you will need to know about Tennessee while you consider moving to the volunteer state
Whether you’re interested in the living in a bustling city or a charming mountain town, Tennessee has you covered. The Volunteer State may be known for its country music origins, but it truly has something to please everyone.
Cities like Nashville and Memphis are frequently sought out by millennials. Their booming job markets and up-and-coming neighborhoods are attractive to recent graduates. Smaller towns such as Cleveland and Lynchburg are praised for their southern grassroots appeal.
If you’re moving to Tennessee, we’re confident you’ll enjoy all this state has to offer. Before relocating, it’s good to know what life here is all about. Here’s what to know if you plan on making the Volunteer State your home!
No Personal Income Tax
One of the greatest advantages of moving to Tennessee is a fiscal one. Over the next 3 years, the Volunteer State will join 7 other states in becoming income tax-free. Currently, the Hall income tax rate stands at just 3%. It will continue to decrease by one percent until disseminating entirely in 2021.
Being a Tennessee resident doesn’t just mean you can avoid paying interest and dividend income. You also get to steer clear of paying wage and retirement income. Property tax here is quite low as well, so Tennessee is popular among retirees.
Drink the Whiskey
There’s whiskey- and then there’s Tennessee Whiskey. It’s so smooth, it has been the inspiration for many hit tunes from many of country’s biggest artists.
What makes Tennessee’s brown distilled beverages better than the rest? Well, for one, the process for making a Tennessee whiskey is unique compared to other Bourbons. The process for each drink appears similar, in that distilled corn must age in a new oak barrel.
But, before aging, Tennessee whiskey is filtered through charcoal, giving it it’s smooth taste. One of the most notorious examples of this fine beverage is Jack Daniels. Step into any watering hole in the Volunteer State for a neatly poured “Jack”.
Learn Your History
Because of its location, Tennessee was fought after by the Union and Confederates. Ultimately, Tennessee became the last state to join the Confederates in 1861. However, it still saw more armed conflicts-2,900 to be exact– than any other state except for Virginia.
There are plenty of places in this state to learn more about Tennessee’s background. If you’re interested in learning about its role in the Civil War, check out some of these historical sites, parks, and battlegrounds.
Music lovers have plenty to rejoice about, as well. Although Nashville has been dubbed the “Capital of Country”, it’s not it’s birthplace. Instead, that can be found just a few hours east of Nashville in Bristol, Tennessee.
Bristol is home to the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, and it also hosts many events and concerts. Check out the Rhythm & Roots Festival which falls on Labor Day weekend each year.
Community College is Free
Thanks to the Tennessee Promise program, TN high school graduates can attend community college for free. This federal program was created as an effort to develop a more educated workforce.
Students must apply for the scholarship through the Tennessee Promise website. There are partnering organizations throughout the state to assist both students and parents.
These groups can help students fill out scholarship paperwork or apply for colleges. They can also help find community service opportunities, which are mandatory for eligibility in the program.
Plus, once you graduate you won’t have to move far to find a new job. As we mentioned, many recent grads are moving to Knoxville, Nashville, and other cities for their booming markets.
Eat Your Heart Out
Just as iconic as Tennessee whiskey is it’s slow-cooked Memphis-style BBQ. This style of cooking was developed after World War 2 in the Blues and Rock and Roll City.
Fortunately, many new ventures stay true to this style of creating succulent dishes. In Tennessee, Memphis-style BBQ generally refers to succulent dry-rubbed ribs.
If barbecue isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other tasty Tennessee treats to feast on. We can’t help but indulge in some of the classic Southern staples, such as biscuits and fried chicken.
“Meat and Three” is another go-to for Volunteers, which consists of 1 meat option and 3 side dishes. You can choose from meats such as chicken, ham, or steak and some form of vegetables, corn, and potatoes for the sides. Meat and three is also traditionally served with cornbread and sweet tea.
The Mountains are Calling
The Great Smoky Mountains draw in over 11.3 million visitors each year. If you’ve visited before, we’re sure you understand why.
With nearly 262,000 acres of natural beauty, there’s plenty of adventure to be had. The Smoky Mountains are packed with forested areas, waterfalls, wildflowers, and more. Take in the mountainous landscape at one of few national parks that don’t charge entry fees.
You can find all sorts of trails through the mountains, as well as areas for camping. The brave can try their hand at white-water rafting or hang-gliding over the mountains.
There is a good range of nearby towns and cities to visit during a Smoky Mountains trip. Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are touristy, but they’re home to must-sees such as Dollywood. For a more quaint feel, check out Sevierville or Townsend.
Moving to Tennessee?
If you’re planning on moving to Tennessee, you’ve got lots to look forward. Quality food, scenery, and people are just a few things you can expect. Oh, and great beer!
Moving can be tough but we’re here to help. We offer advice on budget travel, relocation, general life hacks, and more. Check out some of our other articles here! Also, don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions.
