Knoxville, Tennessee, is a metropolis that gives residents quite a lot of advantages, from an reasonably priced value of residing to a vibrant arts and tradition scene. Knoxville additionally ranks as one of many high 10 fastest-growing cities in Tennessee. Nonetheless, like every metropolis, there are additionally some downsides to contemplate, resembling restricted public transportation, nightlife and purchasing choices, sizzling summers, and better gross sales tax. On this article, we are going to discover the professionals and cons of residing in Knoxville, and offer you an entire rundown that will help you make your best option for you.
So whether or not you’re flats in Knoxville, TN or considering of shopping for a house within the metropolis we’ve received you coated with all the data you’ll want to know.
Execs of residing in Knoxville
1. Reasonably priced value of residing
Knoxville, TN, has a extra reasonably priced value of residing compared to different close by main markets, making it an awesome place to name residence. In distinction, Nashville, positioned about 170 miles to the west, is understood for being a dearer metropolis, with a price of residing that’s 15% greater than Knoxville’s. One of many main causes for Knoxville’s low value of residing is the comparatively cheap housing. For instance, the median sale worth in Knoxville is $306,000, which is 23% decrease than the nationwide common of $400,500 and 30% decrease than the median sale worth in Nashville.
2. Vibrant arts and tradition scene
Knoxville’s vibrant arts and tradition scene gives quite a few museums, galleries, theaters, and festivals. Town is residence to the Knoxville Museum of Artwork, the Clarence Brown Theatre, the World’s Truthful 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. Lovely pure surroundings
The Nice Smoky Mountains encompass Knoxville, offering residents entry to lovely pure surroundings. Town is a hub for out of doors actions resembling mountaineering, biking, and kayaking, and its quite a few parks and greenways provide alternatives for residents to benefit from the open air. From scenic drives within the mountains to exploring the Tennessee River, Knoxville’s pure magnificence offers residents a peaceable retreat from metropolis life.
4. Various job alternatives
There are various job alternatives throughout many industries, together with healthcare, training, manufacturing, and expertise. With the College of Tennessee and Oak Ridge Nationwide Laboratory positioned within the metropolis, Knoxville has an intense analysis and growth sector. Town can also be residence to a number of main firms, resembling Pilot Flying J, Bush Brothers & Firm, and Regal Leisure Group. Whether or not you might be beginning your profession or on the lookout for a change, Knoxville gives quite a lot of choices for jobseekers.
5. Handy location
Town is conveniently positioned within the coronary heart of the Southeastern United States, offering quick access to main cities like Nashville, Atlanta, and Charlotte. Town is served by McGhee Tyson Airport, making air journey handy for residents and guests alike. Knoxville can also be located on the intersection of assorted main highways, together with I-40 and I-75, making it straightforward to journey by automotive.
Cons of residing in Knoxville
1. Restricted public transportation
Not like bigger cities resembling Manhattan, Knoxville’s public transportation system is restricted. With a Transit Rating of 27, the town solely has a number of bus routes and no commuter rail service. Whereas the town is compact and walkable in some areas, getting round with out a automotive could be difficult, significantly for these residing 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 fashionable spots exist in areas like Market Sq. and Outdated Metropolis, the town could 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 purchasing choices
For many who love to buy, choices could also be restricted in some areas, with fewer high-end retailers and luxurious purchasing locations in comparison with bigger cities. Whereas the town has a number of purchasing facilities and malls, together with West City Mall, some residents could must journey exterior the town for extra various purchasing experiences. Nonetheless, Knoxville does have a strong native retail scene, with many distinctive boutiques and retailers providing handmade and one-of-a-kind objects.
4. Scorching summers
Knoxville experiences sizzling summers, with common excessive temperatures within the 80s and 90s (°F) from Could to September. Humidity may also 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 wouldn’t have entry to air con. Nonetheless, the town’s proximity to the Nice Smoky Mountains offers alternatives for out of doors recreation in cooler mountain temperatures, and plenty of indoor sights and actions provide respite from the warmth.
5. Greater gross sales tax
Tennessee’s gross sales tax is notably greater than the nationwide common, hovering round 7%. As compared, most states have a gross sales tax fee throughout the 4-7% vary. Tennessee’s excessive gross sales tax fee can impression residents’ buying energy and general value of residing. Knoxville, TN, has a mixed gross sales tax of 9.25% when factoring in state, county, and metropolis gross sales tax charges.
