Knoxville, Tennessee, is a metropolis that gives residents quite a lot of advantages, from an reasonably priced value of dwelling to a vibrant arts and tradition scene. Knoxville additionally ranks as one of many prime 10 fastest-growing cities in Tennessee. Nonetheless, like every metropolis, there are additionally some downsides to contemplate, reminiscent of restricted public transportation, nightlife and buying choices, scorching summers, and better gross sales tax. On this article, we are going to discover the professionals and cons of dwelling in Knoxville, and offer you a whole rundown that can assist you make your best option for you.
So whether or not you’re residences in Knoxville, TN or pondering of shopping for a house within the metropolis we’ve received you coated with all the knowledge you should know.
Execs of dwelling in Knoxville
1. Reasonably priced value of dwelling
Knoxville, TN, has a extra reasonably priced value of dwelling compared to different close by main markets, making it a fantastic place to name house. In distinction, Nashville, situated about 170 miles to the west, is thought for being a dearer metropolis, with a value of dwelling that’s 15% greater than Knoxville’s. One of many main causes for Knoxville’s low value of dwelling is the comparatively cheap housing. For instance, the median sale value in Knoxville is $306,000, which is 23% decrease than the nationwide common of $400,500 and 30% decrease than the median sale value in Nashville.
2. Vibrant arts and tradition scene
Knoxville’s vibrant arts and tradition scene presents quite a few museums, galleries, theaters, and festivals. The town is house to the Knoxville Museum of Artwork, the Clarence Brown Theatre, the World’s Honest Park, and the Sunsphere, amongst others. It additionally hosts a number of cultural festivals, such because the Dogwood Arts Competition and the Worldwide Biscuit Competition. Knoxville’s wealthy historical past and dedication to the humanities present residents and guests with various cultural experiences.
3. Stunning pure surroundings
The Nice Smoky Mountains encompass Knoxville, offering residents entry to lovely pure surroundings. The town is a hub for out of doors actions reminiscent of mountaineering, biking, and kayaking, and its quite a few parks and greenways provide alternatives for residents to benefit from the outdoor. From scenic drives within the mountains to exploring the Tennessee River, Knoxville’s pure magnificence supplies residents a peaceable retreat from metropolis life.
4. Various job alternatives
There are various job alternatives throughout many industries, together with healthcare, schooling, manufacturing, and expertise. With the College of Tennessee and Oak Ridge Nationwide Laboratory situated within the metropolis, Knoxville has an intense analysis and growth sector. The town can be house to a number of main corporations, reminiscent of Pilot Flying J, Bush Brothers & Firm, and Regal Leisure Group. Whether or not you’re beginning your profession or in search of a change, Knoxville presents quite a lot of choices for jobseekers.
5. Handy location
The town is conveniently situated within the coronary heart of the Southeastern United States, offering quick access to main cities like Nashville, Atlanta, and Charlotte. The town is served by McGhee Tyson Airport, making air journey handy for residents and guests alike. Knoxville can be located on the intersection of varied main highways, together with I-40 and I-75, making it simple to journey by automobile.
Cons of dwelling in Knoxville
1. Restricted public transportation
In contrast to bigger cities reminiscent of Manhattan, Knoxville’s public transportation system is restricted. With a Transit Rating of 27, the town solely has just a few bus routes and no commuter rail service. Whereas the town is compact and walkable in some areas, getting round with no automobile may be difficult, significantly for these dwelling in outlying areas. This can be a barrier for some residents who depend on public transportation to get to work or run errands.
2. Restricted nightlife
Knoxville’s nightlife is restricted in comparison with bigger cities, with fewer bars, nightclubs, and leisure venues. Whereas some well-liked spots exist in areas like Market Sq. and Previous Metropolis, the town might not have the identical selection and pleasure as bigger city facilities. Nonetheless, Knoxville does have a thriving music scene, with many native bands and musicians acting at smaller venues all through the town. Moreover, the town hosts a number of cultural occasions and festivals all year long, which can provide alternatives for night leisure.
3. Restricted buying choices
For many who love to buy, choices could also be restricted in some areas, with fewer high-end retailers and luxurious buying locations in comparison with bigger cities. Whereas the town has a number of buying facilities and malls, together with West City Mall, some residents might must journey exterior the town for extra various buying experiences. Nonetheless, Knoxville does have a stable native retail scene, with many distinctive boutiques and outlets providing handmade and one-of-a-kind gadgets.
4. Scorching summers
Knoxville experiences scorching summers, with common excessive temperatures within the 80s and 90s (°F) from Could to September. Humidity can be excessive, making the warmth really feel extra intense. This can be uncomfortable for some residents who’re delicate to the warmth, significantly those that do not need entry to air con. Nonetheless, the town’s proximity to the Nice Smoky Mountains supplies alternatives for out of doors recreation in cooler mountain temperatures, and plenty of indoor points of interest and actions provide respite from the warmth.
5. Increased gross sales tax
Tennessee’s gross sales tax is notably greater than the nationwide common, hovering round 7%. Compared, most states have a gross sales tax fee throughout the 4-7% vary. Tennessee’s excessive gross sales tax fee can influence residents’ buying energy and total value of dwelling. Knoxville, TN, has a mixed gross sales tax of 9.25% when factoring in state, county, and metropolis gross sales tax charges.