If you need a change of space from Texas, then Tennessee is the place you should consider moving to. Upon entering the state, you’ll be enamored by juicy barbecues, vibrant communities, and lush surroundings. More than that, Tennessee has a vibrant musical heritage. You’ll surely recognize this place as the hometown of Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton.
Want to know more about what makes this state charming? Our article below will weigh all the aspects you need to consider when moving from Texas to Tennessee.
Some Points To Explore Before Moving From Texas To Tennessee
On the comfort index scale, Texas has a score of 7.2 whereas Tennessee bags a close 7.3. Even though both states have nearly similar weather conditions, Tennessee has a slight advantage over Texas; it gets fewer sunny days. Summers can get pretty brutal in Texas and Tennessee and more sunny days mean more unbearable heat! Texas sees an average of 235 sunny days while Tennessee has an average of 207.
Summertime is AC time in both states. During the peak summer season, Texas sees temperatures between 92°F to 100°F throughout the state. Nights are usually more pleasant as temperatures range between 67°F to 75°F, making the climate bearable. However, a typical day during the peak summer season in Tennessee sees temperatures going above 100°F. This is caused due to Tennessee’s high humidity levels. On average, Tennessee’s summer temperatures are a bit milder ranging in the 82°F to 92°F zone. Temperatures in Tennessee can be even more lenient ranging between 59°F to 74°F.
To escape Tennessee’s long summers, you should make the best use of this time by fishing, visiting farmer markets, and fairs. Tourist attractions such as Watts Bar Lake in eastern Tennessee are a wonderful place to sip on a cocktail and survive the summer heat. Wear light-colored clothes and carry sunscreen to protect yourself from UV rays and humidity.
Winters in Tennessee are harsh as well. Temperatures can get below freezing, especially at night. Day temperatures are cold ranging predominantly in the 46°F to 50°F. Warm coats, mufflers, and gloves are a must during this season. Try planning your move during the summer months when the climate is more forgiving. Texas receives harsh winters as well with temperatures being in the 52°F to 71°F, but they are slightly warmer than Tennessee’s.
Both states rarely experience any snowfall but they do receive a substantial amount of rain. Tennessee sees an average of 53 inches of rain per year, whereas Texas gets 36 inches of rainfall. So get those raincoats and umbrellas off the top shelf because you will be receiving a lot of rain in Tennessee.
Moving to a different state or even a country makes sense if you want to ease out a bit of the expenditure. The beauty and the aesthetic value of the place can be secondary. You should know that Tennessee is comparably more expensive than Texas, but don’t worry, it’s just a 1.7% increase. Utilities, real estate, and clothing are the culprits for this increased cost of living. You’ll have to cut a couple of corners to purchase a house as real estate is 5% higher in Tennessee than in Texas. On the brighter side, Tennessee’s property tax rates (0.64%) are much lower than in Texas (1.69%), so you’ll save a bit of money on that. If buying a house is not within your means, renting becomes the second most viable option. Compared to Texas, rent rates are 15% less in Tennessee.
| State | Median Home Value | Average Market Rent Per Month |
| Tennessee | $201,879 | $1,210 |
| Texas | $191,902 | $1,428 |
Another factor that contributes to Tennessee’s cost of living is its taxes. Although there’s no state income tax, the base sales tax (7.00% ) is among the highest in the U.S. On the other hand, Texas has no income tax plus a lower base sales tax (6.25%) than Tennessee.
Where driving is concerned, gasoline is a bit pricier in Tennessee ($0.59) as compared to the price in Texas ($0.57). But again it is just a marginal 4%. Hence, you won’t have to cut many corners in this case.
Some items such as fruits and milk cost slightly more in Tennessee in contrast with Texas’ prices. However, the average cost of your groceries will be 0.8% cheaper in Tennessee than in Texas. One loaf of bread ($2.25), about 1 lb of cheese ($4.90), a dozen of eggs ($1.69), and around a pound of potatoes will be $11.22. The same items in Texas would cost you around $12 (one loaf of bread= $2.28, 1 lb of cheese= $5.02, a dozen eggs= $2.01, around a pound of potatoes= $2.62). You can buy and eat to your heart’s content.
Utilities are a bit on the higher side in Tennessee compared to the rates in Texas. A basic internet plan is 7.5% higher in Tennessee ($70.25) than in Texas ($65.33). Your electricity and gas bills are also pricier in Tennessee ($128.53) than in Texas ($123) as well. Air conditioning is necessary to survive Tennessee’s hot and humid climate; hence the expensive utility bills.
We love discussing economics; the rise and fall of the market, how resources are consumed, and other types of jargon. Knowing the economy of the state is important when scouting for new jobs. Having no idea of the job market will lead you to make poor decisions.
When it comes to Texas and Tennessee, both states have massive economies; Texas’ GDP is around $1.9 trillion whereas Tennessee’s GDP stands at $312 billion. Texas’s economy is driven by financial services, manufacturing, and IT technology providing millions of jobs for its residents. It may look like Tenneessee’s contribution is minuscule compared to Texas’, but its booming economy has created a surge of economic opportunities for the people.
Here are some industries that have impacted Tennessee’s GDP positively:
Since Tennessee’s economy is diverse, we have a lower unemployment rate than in Texas. In terms of statistics, Tennessee has an unemployment rate of 4.7%, while Texas has a rate of 6.2%. In comparison to Texas, Tennessee has a higher literacy rate. This explains why its unemployment rate is so low.
You may be put off by the fact that you’ll earn a bit less in Tennessee, but there’s nothing to fret about as the cost of living is just a little more expensive than Texas:
Now coming to living expenses. Assuming you don’t have any extra members to provide, you should earn a minimum of $27,563 annually to live comfortably. Having one child with you as the only working person, $54,702 should be enough to take care of yourself and your child.
Public transport is pretty reliable in Tennessee. Each county has some kind of transportation; it may be in the form of buses, railroads, or even ferries. For passenger commute, major cities like Memphis and Newbern are looked after by the Amtrak City of New Orleans. Music City Star serves Nashville. If you prefer to commute by bus, Nashville has several buses registered under the MTA, which will take you to and from the airport and other parts of Downtown Nashville.
What Makes Tennessee Special?
See Also: Moving From California To Tennessee
Located in Shelby County, Germantown is considered one of Tennessee’s wealthiest neighborhoods. Retail and commercial services hold the majority of the economy in Germantown, making it a good place to do business. Moreover, the city is recognized for its parks and has an extensive horse trail, and to keep local banter lively, the Germantown Charity Horse Show is held every June.
Median Home Value: $389,600
Median Home Rent: $1,723
In terms of education, Spring Hill is one of the best neighborhoods to raise a family. When it comes to leisure, take a trip to Rippavilla Plantation and the Battle of Spring Hill site if you’re interested in American history. Also, the crime rate is way less in this city as compared to others. Therefore, you can be sure of feeling safe over here. The schools have variety, making it easier for people to continue or start their education.
Median Home Value: $286,800
Median Rent: $1,401
Brentwood, known as the city of ‘Burning Faith,’ is renowned for its quality school systems, safe neighborhoods, and recreation areas. The atmosphere is clean and its parks are filled with children playing in them. If you ever need a breather from the hustle and bustle of life, visit Crockett Park, Primm Park, and Owl Creek Park.
Median Home Value: $655,400
Median Rent: $2,085
Also Read: Moving To Tennessee
The approximate distance between Texas and Tennessee is around 913.7 miles via the I-30 E and I-40 E. It’s a rather small commute. However, moving prices can skyrocket depending on the time, size, and location of the people. For instance, the approximate price of moving from Dallas to Nashville is between $3,045 to $8,700 approximately. You can further reduce costs by not moving during peak season. Check for holidays especially.
A professional moving company will do all the work for you: they will handle logistics, pack, load, and unload your items delivering them to your doorstep. This method will save a lot of time and energy, but it is expensive. Some companies offer junk removal as well for an additional fee. Those who are facing financial constraints can hire a moving container or rent a truck. But you’ll have to do all the heavy work.
Conclusion
Summing up everything, Tennessee has a lot to offer to its citizens and newcomers alike. It’s true that you’ll earn a bit less in Tennessee and the cost of living is slightly higher, but its booming economy has opened a plethora of job opportunities to all walks of life. In addition, the music scene is vibrant and the people are welcoming. What more do you want?
The prices all depend on the size, location, and time of the move. Costs can range from $2,100 to $8,700. Also, moves during the holiday season affect the net cost as well.
Tennessee has a lot of pros and cons. If you’re able to cope with the cost of living in Tennessee, then it is a great place to move to. Also, the economy is pretty good and the unemployment rate is low.
Tennessee is a tad costlier than Texas. But that won’t be a problem as the difference is small. If you’re after real estate, the rates are expensive, but the property taxes are low. So it kind of balances the expensive part. In general, you won’t have to make significant changes to your lifestyle; maybe a little bit here and there.
See also: Moving from Texas to Colorado | Moving from Texas to California
Alex Sherr is the founder of My Long Distance Movers, a blog that provides moving information and resources for people who are relocating. He has more than two decades of experience in the moving and relocation industry, and he is passionate about helping people relocate smoothly and efficiently. When he's not writing or blogging, Alex enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children.
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