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So you have decided to move to Tennessee. It is a wise decision as the state is one of the desired destinations to move in and Tennessee is witnessing a huge inflow from different parts of the United States. So what makes Tennessee one of the most sought-after destinations? We conducted research and have found 20 facts that you should know about Tennessee before moving to Tennessee. We believe this will help you know the state better before starting a life there.
Do not Move to Tennessee in Summer
Tennessee experiences a hot and humid summer. If you are planning on moving to Tennessee, the wise decision will be to avoid summer months. The average high temperature in Tennessee in July is a whopping 92 degrees, and the humidity can make it feel even hotter.
There is No Personal Tax in Tennessee
It is really surprising and exciting to know that Tennessee doesn’t have a state income tax. This means that you won’t see state income taxes taken out of your paychecks or owe state income taxes at tax time. However, there is a slight caveat to that. Indeed, the state doesn’t tax regular wage and salary income, but it does tax dividends and interest earnings. This means that if you make wealth from investments, it could be taxed Tennessee. However, there is good news that authorities are planning to phase out its current 6% tax on dividends and interest by 2022. But at present, it exists.
Tennessee is a Music lover’s Heaven
For music lovers, Tennessee is where they would love to make a living. The music scene here is vibrant and music history is exciting, especially for lovers of jazz, blues rock, and country. All around the state, you can feel the vibes of music and there exist plenty of small live music venues, plus legendary spots like the Grand Ole Opry. While staying in Tennessee, you can visit Loretta Lynn’s ranch and Sun Studio or walk in the footsteps of B.B. King and Aretha Franklin. That sounds impressive.
Tennessee Whiskey is a Category of Its Own
Are you a whiskey lover? Then you will be happy to call Tennessee your home. Specially brewed, Tennessee whiskey is an industry term that is synonymous with premium high-quality whiskey. Some of the famous Tennessee whiskey brands are:
- Jack Daniels
- George Dickel Barrel Select
- Uncle Nearest 1856
- Nelson’s First 108 Tennessee Whiskey
- Prichard’s Tennessee Whiskey
- Rollins Tennessee Whiskey
- Clayton James Tennessee Whiskey
It is Home to Literary Legends
Tennessee is not just about music. It is also the birthplace of many famous authors, including Alex Haley, Cormac McCarthy, and James Agee. Sewanee. The prestigious University of the South published “The Sewanee Review,” which is said to be the oldest continually published periodical of its kind in the country.
Tennessee’s Festivals are Big
In Tennessee, you will not be deprived of fests and fairs as every time, one fair or the other will be happening around. The festival of Bonnaroo has a big part big role in the life of the people here. In the same way, with the events like CMA Music Festival, Tennessee has something for everyone.
Dollywood and Graceland Will Be Near You
Living in Tennessee will give you opportunities to visit Dollywood and Graceland on weekends or can take your guests there.
Tennessee has a Civil Rights Museum
For history buffs, Moving to Tennessee is the right place to delve into the history of the US. There is a lot here to learn about the Civil Rights movement and its greats. At Memphis, there is a National Civil Rights Museum and an Underground Railroad museum. Nashville was the site of famous sit-ins during the Civil Rights movement.
At Tennessee, You Are Close to Nature
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the lungs of Tennessee. It is home to a wide range of flora and fauna and is also a hiking and cycling destination. Your vacation here will be an opportunity to come close to nature.
Low Cost of Living
In Tennessee, the cost of living is 18.94%, which is lower than the national average. This makes Tennessee one of the most affordable states to live in after moving to Tennessee. Everything in Tennessee is low priced, be it groceries, utilities, consumer goods, or housing.
Tennessee is Ethnically Diverse
Tennessee is highly diverse and has various ethnic minorities residing. And this means a calm and comfortable environment to live without bothering about the background.
Fall is so Colorful in Tennessee
It is not just New England states like Maine and Vermont but Tennessee is also colorful in the fall. Tennessee’s trees put on a stunning display every fall and the state experiences all four seasons including autumn. So next time, when someone states that New England turns colorful in Fall, ask him to rethink once.
Thousands of Caves to Explore
If you love geography, Tennessee is for you. There are over 9,000 caves across the state to explore. While some caves are free to visit, some are accessible only via paid tours. And if you plan to explore it alone, make sure to follow basic cave safety.
Traffic is Heavy Here
The traffic scene in Tennessee is not something that you will appreciate. The state might have wide roads and vast sidewalks but that doesn’t make any impact on traffic, especially in big cities like Nashville and Memphis. If you’re heading to one of the state airports, give yourself plenty of time.
The Job Market is Pretty Impressive
The local job market in Tennessee is good going and you will not find much difficulty in finding one. For beginners, Tennessee has a fairly low unemployment rate is just 3.4%, which is highly impressive. The current minimum wage is $7.25/hour, which is the same as the federal minimum.
The fast-growing fields in Tennessee are:
- Physical therapist
- Medical sonographer
- Tax preparer
- Translator
- Nurse practitioner
- Surgeon
- Pediatrician
- Orthodontist
- OB/GYN
- Psychiatrist
- Dentist
- Nurse anesthetist
Free College Education
A child who graduated from a high school in Tennessee can attend a Tennessee community college at zero cost. Thanks to the Tennessee Promise Program. This has inspired a similar federal effort to get high school grads into free community colleges to groom up a more educated workforce.
Tennessee’s Cities are Booming
All cities in Tennessee, especially Nashville are witnessing a boom in the economy, which is good news in terms of employment. This promises a high standard of living for the young generation.
BBQ Here is Dry-Rubbed Ribs
In Tennessee, barbecue is slow-cooked and succulent. A classic Tennessee BBQ is a spicy dry rub. And for vegetarians who cannot consume meat, Tennessee is a good option as it is also a vegetarian-friendly state.
High Crime Rate
In Tennessee, you need to be ready to wake up to the news of gang wars. Several criminal gangs operate here and shoot outs and encounters are quite common. A majority of the news here will be about crime and you will get to use it after moving to Tennessee.
Natural Disasters are Common
Moving to Tennessee, you will discover that the state witnesses tornadoes, hurricanes, and thunderstorms annually. However, most of them might not be severe and the results might not be that catastrophic. However, you need to be prepared to face the worst.
Tennessee is worth calling home. It has got everything that you aspire at your home state. With amazing natural resources, good climate, and fabulous attractions and entertainment options, you will never regret moving to Tennessee.
