Pros and Cons of Tennessee Living: What You Should Know Before Moving

Thinking about leaving the chaos of California behind? Maybe it's the traffic, the taxes, or the feeling that things just don’t feel the way they used to. If you're wondering whether Tennessee might offer a better way of life, you're not alone.

 Prefer to watch instead?
Check out the full video breakdown on YouTube:
👉 Watch here

After helping dozens of families make the leap (and making it myself), I’ve learned that moving isn’t just about finding a house. It’s about finding a lifestyle, a community, and a place that aligns with your values.

Tennessee isn't perfect. No place is. So let’s talk about the pros and cons of Tennessee living with a little honesty from someone who has done the move and now helps others do the same.

🌡️ Con #1: The Weather

If you’re used to a dry climate like California, the heat and humidity in Tennessee summers can feel intense. And don’t even get me started on allergy season. Middle Tennessee is one of the worst areas in the country for seasonal allergies. Spring is beautiful here, with blooming dogwoods and tulips everywhere, but if you're sensitive to pollen, stock up on meds.

Tennessee also gets its share of thunderstorms and the occasional tornado, especially in the spring. Most homes don’t have basements, so having a weather plan is important.

💸 Con #2: High Sales Tax

There’s no income tax in Tennessee, which sounds great at first. But sales tax here can reach 9.75% in many counties. That means you’re paying nearly 10% more on everyday items, from groceries and clothing to furniture and cars. If you’re planning to furnish a new home, that extra cost adds up fast.

That said, many families still find their overall expenses are lower when compared to states like California or New York.

🚗 Con #3: Car Dependency

Tennessee is not a walkable state. Outside of downtown Nashville or a few charming town centers like Franklin or Murfreesboro, you’ll need a car for almost everything — work, school, groceries, church, and even your favorite coffee shop.

Public transportation is limited, especially once you get into the suburbs or smaller towns. And with growth on the rise, traffic is starting to become a real issue in places like Mount Juliet and Spring Hill.

🏗️ Con #4: Fast Growth and Infrastructure Strain

Middle Tennessee is growing rapidly. New residents are pouring in, and while that brings opportunity, it also puts pressure on roads, schools, and housing. Construction is constant. Schools are filling up fast, especially in high-performing areas like Williamson and Rutherford County.

Neighborhoods that once felt quiet and rural are now surrounded by developments. Rezoning can affect school assignments and traffic patterns.

🧭 Con #5: Cultural Differences

This one is a bit more nuanced, but important. Tennessee tends to lean more conservative and traditional than coastal states. Family values, faith-based communities, and patriotism are part of everyday life here, especially outside major cities.

For many, this is exactly why they move. But if you're used to more progressive policies and cultural norms, it may take some adjusting. Things like school curriculum, community events, and small talk may reflect a different worldview than you’re used to.

The good news? If you come with respect and openness, people here are often incredibly welcoming. Especially if you love Tennessee for the same reasons they do.

🎓 Let’s Talk About Schools

One of the biggest questions families ask is about school districts in Tennessee and for good reason. Schools shape communities, influence home values, and affect everything from your daily routine to your peace of mind.

In California, we chose private school when public school curriculum started to shift in ways that didn’t align with our values. Back then, tuition was $8,000–$10,000 a year. Today, many private schools in LA charge $15,000–$30,000 annually, sometimes more. It’s become out of reach for many families.

If I were making that decision again today, Tennessee would be at the top of my list. Here, you can access nationally recognized public school districts like Williamson County and Rutherford County without paying a fortune in tuition.

• Williamson County: 82% math proficiency, 88% reading, and smaller class sizes

• Wilson County: Strong scores in the 60s, 16:1 student-teacher ratio

• Rutherford County: Balanced academics, modern neighborhoods, and great affordability

For private education, Tennessee offers a wide range of options too, often at lower prices than coastal states. Faith-based programs, classical academies, and even hybrid homeschool models are thriving here.

🏡 Real Estate and Long-Term Value

Even if your kids are grown, schools still matter. Homes zoned for top-rated districts hold their value, sell faster, and attract more buyers. I’ve seen homes in Middle Tennessee get multiple offers even in slower markets just because they’re in the right zone.

Whether you’re looking for calm, connection, or conviction-aligned education, school quality is a key part of Tennessee living that shouldn’t be overlooked.

💬 Final Thoughts: Is Tennessee Right for You?

No, it’s not perfect. But for many families, the pros of Tennessee living like affordability, values-driven communities, strong schools, and room to breathe far outweigh the cons. The key is knowing what matters most to your family and finding a place that reflects that.

If you're asking, "Is there somewhere better for us?" the answer might be yes. Tennessee could be that fresh start.

Sincerely, 

Lisa Marie Mason