Matt is dedicated to the real estate industry, focusing on revitalizing properties and transforming them into welcoming homes. He has been featured in respected publications such as Forbes, Apartment Therapy, Reader's Digest, Bob Vila, Yahoo, and Go Banking Rates, highlighting his commitment and knowledge in the field.
Matt has a genuine passion for real estate and finds joy in bringing properties back to life. Whether it's a fixer-upper needing some care or a historic home looking for a modern touch, Matt enjoys seeing the potential in every project and working hard to bring it to fruition.
In his free time, Matt loves to travel and explore new places with his family. This love for adventure not only offers a refreshing break from work but also provides new ideas and inspiration.
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Thinking of moving to Knoxville TN? As Nexus Homebuyers we have helped hundreds of families move to this great city and we can’t wait to share with you what makes Knoxville so special. From the beautiful mountains to the fun downtown scene, Knoxville has something for everyone – and often at a price that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re moving for a new job, a better quality of life or to retire in a friendly community, this guide to moving to Knoxville will give you everything you need to know about relocating to this great city.
Why Knoxville?
Knoxville TN is a city that has the perfect mix of small-town charm and big-city amenities. The cost of living in Tennessee is 10% below the national average so it’s a great option for families and young professionals. Housing costs are also very reasonable especially compared to other larger cities in the region. A dollar goes further here whether you’re buying groceries, paying utilities, or looking for entertainment.
One of the city’s biggest attractions is its location. Located near major highways and served by McGhee Tyson Airport, Knoxville is easy to get to other southeastern cities. Driving out of state is also easy because Knoxville is conveniently located and just a 3-hour drive from Atlanta and a 6-hour drive from the Carolinas beaches. This convenient location makes it perfect for business travelers and families who want to explore the Southeast.
The natural beauty around Knoxville can’t be beat. The Great Smoky Mountains are the backdrop to daily life here and offer recreational opportunities year-round. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a casual nature lover, or just someone who likes to look at pretty views, having this natural beauty in your backyard is a big bonus of living here.
The city is growing and diversifying and creating new opportunities across many industries. From tech startups to established manufacturing companies, Knoxville has something for every professional background. This diversity helps keep things stable during tough times.
Knoxville Neighborhoods
Downtown Knoxville: The City Center
Downtown Knoxville is hopping with energy centered around Market Square and Gay Street. This area has become the hub for young professionals with converted loft apartments in old buildings. The Tennessee River is the perfect backdrop for evening walks and the Old City district has the best nightlife in town.
The downtown area comes alive during events like the Knoxville Film Festival and farmers’ markets. Market Square hosts regular concerts and cultural events and is the gathering place for the community. The area has the highest walkability score in the city with residents able to walk to grocery stores, entertainment venues, and more.
Favorite local restaurants are scattered throughout the city, from upscale to casual. The coffee shop scene is especially strong with local roasters and cozy cafes perfect for work or relaxation. The mix of old and new creates a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere.
South Knoxville: A Quiet Getaway
South Knoxville has become the new hot spot for new residents looking for a laid-back lifestyle. This area has more space lower-cost housing, and shopping options, and is still close to downtown. It’s especially popular with outdoor enthusiasts due to the many walking trails and green spaces.
The Urban Wilderness, a gem of South Knoxville, has over 50 miles of natural surface trails for hiking, biking, and exploring. Development has been done thoughtfully to maintain a peaceful atmosphere while adding modern amenities and conveniences.
Housing in South Knoxville ranges from historic homes to new developments and is often priced lower than other areas of the city. The area has seen new businesses and restaurants while keeping its character and affordability.
Other Areas
North Knoxville North Knoxville stands out among Knoxville’s best neighborhoods for its perfect blend of historic charm and modern living. Known for its historic homes and thriving coffee shop culture, this area offers the perfect mix of residential tranquility and urban convenience. The character-rich neighborhoods feature tree-lined streets and a strong sense of community, while local businesses flourish, from charming antique shops to trendy modern boutiques.
West Knoxville West Knoxville has earned its reputation as one of the best neighborhoods in Knoxville for families seeking suburban comfort. Popular for its extensive shopping along Kingston Pike, this area epitomizes suburban living at its finest. The area boasts some of the city’s best shopping options, from major retailers to local boutiques. Residents appreciate the newer neighborhoods, excellent schools, and modern amenities that make daily life convenient and enjoyable.
Oak Ridge While technically its city, Oak Ridge complements Knoxville’s best neighborhoods as a nearby hub for science and technology professionals. Its rich history as a scientific research center continues to attract experts in various technical fields. The area maintains its unique charm while being conveniently located near all of Knoxville’s amenities, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more specialized community atmosphere.
Education and Schools
Knox County Schools serve the area with several highly rated options for families. The district offers professional academic programs that prepare students for higher education or career paths. The focus is on both academic excellence and practical skills so students of all abilities and interests have a strong foundation.
The district’s magnet programs are worth mentioning, offering specialized education in areas like STEM, arts, and international studies. These programs allow students to explore their interests and develop specific skills.
Beyond K-12, the University of Tennessee is the anchor of the local educational landscape, offering world-class education right in town. The university brings cultural events, sporting activities, and a diverse population to the area.
The Job Market
The city’s job market is growing faster than the national average with strength in healthcare, technology, and education. Covenant Health is one of the largest employers and many startups have made Knoxville TN their home. The median age of workers here is younger than many other cities so it’s a great place to start a new job or career.
Industries:
Healthcare and Medical Research
Education
Technology and Innovation
Manufacturing
Tourism and Hospitality
Government and Public Service
Oak Ridge National Laboratory brings research and development opportunities. Also, the University of Tennessee brings higher education opportunities. The startup scene has grown rapidly in recent years with several incubators and accelerators.
Getting Around Town
Public transportation options are limited compared to other big cities but Knoxville’s walk score varies by neighborhood. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system has bus service throughout the city with routes that connect residential areas to downtown, shopping districts, and employment centers.
If you live outside of downtown, a car is usually necessary for daily life. But the city’s layout and infrastructure make commuting easy with major highways connecting different areas. Traffic is present during peak hours but manageable compared to other big cities.
Cycling infrastructure is improving with new bike lanes and trails being added regularly. The city is committed to alternative transportation as shown by its growing network of greenways and bike-friendly routes.
Recreation and Entertainment
When it comes to fun things to do in Knoxville there’s no shortage. The minor league baseball team is fun entertainment, and the craft beer scene has unique local flavors. For romantic things to do in Knoxville couples can dine riverside or take an evening stroll through the Old City.
There’s easy access to plenty of outdoor activities with many hiking trails and recreational opportunities in and around the city. Being close to the Great Smoky Mountains means endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors year-round.
Reasons to Move to Knoxville
The city is one of the most affordable places to live in Tennessee
Our arts scene is thriving with live music venues and cultural events
The local food scene is famous for its fried chicken
Knoxville TN has the perfect mix of urban and natural beauty
The cost of living is below the national average
Living in Knoxville TN has it all: affordability, opportunity, and quality of life. Whether you’re moving for the job, the outdoor activities or the community Knoxville says welcome.
How We Can Help: Nexus Homebuyers
As your local home-buying experts we’ve helped many families move to and from the Knoxville TN area. Our process eliminates the stress and uncertainty of traditional real estate transactions so you can focus on your new town.
If you want to know how we calculate our offers our process is simple and transparent. We don’t make you sell your house FSBO or work with traditional realtors, we make the selling process easy and fast. If you’re dealing with a unique situation like if you can sell a house in divorce we understand the paperwork to sell a house in Tennessee and can walk you through the process.
Request Your FREE Cash Offer Today!
Sell your house for top dollar and move to Knoxville, TN. Fill out the form below or call us at (865) 999-0025 for your FREE cash offer!
Get Started?
About Us: As one of Knoxville’s trusted home buyers, Nexus Homebuyers specializes in making real estate transactions simple and stress-free. Contact us today to see how we can help make your move to Knoxville easier by providing a fast, hassle-free sale of your current home.
For a single adult or family considering the move, Knoxville TN has the perfect balance of urban and natural beauty all at an affordable price. The city’s job opportunities, cultural events, and outdoor recreation make it one of the best places to live in the country.
Your Complete Checklist for Moving to Knoxville, TN
Moving to a new city can feel overwhelming, but having a systematic approach makes the process much smoother. We’ve created a comprehensive checklist below to help you plan your move to Knoxville step by step. And remember, while you’re focused on these important moving tasks, Nexus Homebuyers can handle the home-selling process for you, providing a hassle-free experience that lets you concentrate on your exciting transition to Knoxville.
2-3 Months Before Moving
Research neighborhoods based on your priorities:
Consider Knox County Schools if moving with children
Explore South Knoxville for a peaceful retreat
Check out North Knoxville for historic charm
Research areas near your new job for commute times
Start comparing utility prices between providers
Begin decluttering and organizing belongings
Research moving companies or truck rentals
Create a moving budget considering the affordable cost of living in Knoxville
Plan transportation:
If flying, book flights to McGhee Tyson Airport
If driving, map routes (note: Knoxville is a three-hour drive from Atlanta or six-hour drive from the coast)
1-2 Months Before
Start packing non-essential items
Plan for temporary housing if needed
Research and schedule:
Local veterinarians
Doctors and dentists
Pet boarding during the move
Begin exploring local amenities in your chosen neighborhood:
Check the walk score for areas near Gay Street if considering downtown
Research public transportation options
Map the nearest grocery stores and pharmacies
Start collecting important documents:
Birth certificates
Social Security cards
Medical records
School transcripts
Pet vaccination records
2-4 Weeks Before
Schedule utility transfers/setups:
Electricity
Water
Gas
Internet/Cable
Trash service
Update your address:
USPS change of address
Credit card companies
Banks
Insurance providers
Subscription services
Prepare for Knoxville’s climate:
Pack appropriate clothing for hot summers
Consider storage solutions for outdoor things
Research and plan fun things to do after moving:
Tennessee River activities
Great Smoky Mountains visits
Cultural events downtown
Arrange car transport or maintenance for the drive
1 Week Before
Pack essentials box with:
Toiletries
Medications
Basic tools
Important documents
Phone chargers
Basic cleaning supplies
Empty and defrost the refrigerator
Confirm all moving arrangements
Get cash for tips/emergencies
Clean current home
Moving Day
Do a final walkthrough of old home
Ensure the essentials box is easily accessible
Get keys to a new home
Document the condition of delivered items
Take photos of utility meters
Begin basic unpacking
First Week in Knoxville
Update your driver’s license at the local DMV
Register your car in Tennessee
Register to vote
Set up bank accounts if needed
Explore your new neighborhood:
Walk around to get familiar with the laid-back atmosphere
Meet neighbors
Locate the closest emergency services
First Month as New Residents
Register vehicles with Knox County
Get library cards
Join local groups/organizations
Find regular service providers:
Hair salon/barber
Auto mechanic
House cleaning
Lawn care
Compare living costs to your previous location
Explore more of the city and country surroundings:
Visit downtown Knoxville
Take day trips to nearby attractions
Try local restaurants
Check out seasonal events
Tips for a Smooth Transition
Weather Preparation
Plan moving dates around the weather if possible
Keep seasonal items accessible
Prepare for temperature changes
Transportation Planning
Consider if you’ll need a car (recommended for most areas)
Research providing easy access to your common destinations
Understand local traffic patterns
Cost Management
Track moving expenses for tax purposes
Compare living costs between cities
Budget for initial setup costs
Family Considerations
Research school registration deadlines
Plan for pet adjustments
Schedule family activities to explore your new community
Work Transition
Update professional licenses if needed
Plan commute routes
Set up a home office if working remotely
Remember that living in Knoxville offers a unique blend of urban and natural amenities. Take time to explore all that makes this city special, from its affordable housing to its rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re moving from larger cities or smaller towns, Knoxville’s mix of modern convenience and traditional charm makes it an ideal place to call home.
Matt is dedicated to the real estate industry, focusing on revitalizing properties and transforming them into welcoming homes. He has been featured in respected publications such as Forbes, Apartment Therapy, Reader's Digest, Bob Vila, Yahoo, and Go Banking Rates, highlighting his commitment and knowledge in the field.
Matt has a genuine passion for real estate and finds joy in bringing properties back to life. Whether it's a fixer-upper needing some care or a historic home looking for a modern touch, Matt enjoys seeing the potential in every project and working hard to bring it to fruition.
In his free time, Matt loves to travel and explore new places with his family. This love for adventure not only offers a refreshing break from work but also provides new ideas and inspiration.
