10 Best Suburbs of Knoxville in 2025

Knoxville, Tennessee has long been the scrappy underdog of the Southeast less flashy than Nashville but still dishing out that sweet Southern flavor and a healthy dose of Appalachian grit. It’s also a city of contrasts, where a short drive can take you from a college football mecca (the University of Tennessee, of course) to rolling farmland. If you’re planning to plant roots in the Knoxville area, there’s a whole ring of suburbs that might fit your vibe, each with its own quirks. We’re going to strip away the tourist brochures and walk through some of the best suburbs for buyers who want a piece of that East Tennessee life.

The following 10 suburbs are diverse, each offering something unique—whether it’s top schools, quieter living, or easy access to lakes, mountains, or the downtown scene. Let’s jump right in.

 

1. Farragut: The Old Standby for Suburban Comfort

Population & Vibe
If you’ve poked around Knoxville at all, you’ve probably heard of Farragut—and with good reason. It’s one of the more “polished” suburbs, with manicured lawns and big-box shopping galore. Officially, about 24,000 people call Farragut home, but it feels bigger because the commercial sprawl bleeds into surrounding areas. It has that planned-community vibe, which some folks love and others find too uniform.

Housing & Cost
Farragut’s got some of the priciest real estate in the Knoxville region. Think sturdy brick two-stories, newer developments with homeowner associations, and a lot of “starter mansions” in the $500,000–$800,000 range. Older ranchers and townhomes pop up here and there, but if you’re on a tight budget, Farragut might be a stretch. On the flip side, that consistent growth often means decent resale value if you have to move later.

Schools & Commute
Farragut High is repeatedly touted as one of Knox County’s top public schools. Traffic on Kingston Pike can be a slog during rush hour, but you’ll have easy access to I-40, so you can zip into downtown in about 20-25 minutes if you time it right. Just know that “if you time it right” is doing a lot of heavy lifting—Knoxville traffic is no Atlanta, but it can surprise you in peak hours.

Local Insider Take
Farragut can feel more like a suburban bubble than a true East Tennessee town. Some folks love the convenience—Target, Costco, and chain restaurants all within a stone’s throw—while others might miss a more eclectic neighborhood vibe. If you want predictability, strong schools, and tidy neighborhoods, Farragut delivers.

 

2. Maryville: Gateway to the Mountains

Population & Vibe
Maryville (pronounced more like “Murr-vull” by locals) sits about 20 miles south of Knoxville and has around 31,000 residents. It’s a smaller city in its own right, serving as a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains. There’s a college-town feel thanks to Maryville College, plus a historic downtown that’s actually got some charm—local shops, coffee spots, even a craft brewery or two.

Housing & Cost
Prices in Maryville are rising but still more approachable compared to Farragut. You’ll find a mix of older ranch homes from the 1970s-80s in the $250,000–$350,000 range alongside bigger new construction developments inching toward $500,000. Locals say you can still snag a fixer-upper on a couple of acres if you’re willing to head a bit further into the countryside.

Proximity to the Smokies
Maryville sits right on the path to Townsend and the quieter side of the Smokies. If you love hiking or scenic drives and want to avoid the “touristy” chaos of Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg, Maryville is gold. Weekend trips to Cades Cove or Big Meadow Campground are practically in your backyard.

Local Insider Take
Maryville still retains a small-town vibe despite its growth. People look out for each other, and if you’re an outdoors enthusiast, you’ll have easy access to some of the best hiking in the Southeast. The commute to Knoxville can be 30-40 minutes depending on your route, but if you work remotely or don’t mind the drive, you’ll get the best of both worlds: city amenities nearby and a mountain playground to the south.

 

3. Alcoa: Home of the Aluminum Legacy 

Population & Vibe
Alcoa is Maryville’s neighbor, and you can practically trip across the city line. With about 10,000 residents, it’s smaller and historically built around the Aluminum Company of America (hence the name). Don’t expect a robust downtown—Alcoa’s more about strip malls and the Alcoa Highway corridor—but it’s an extremely convenient launch point if you travel often, thanks to McGhee Tyson Airport sitting right there.

Housing & Cost
Housing here is more modestly priced than in Maryville or Farragut. You can find older homes in established neighborhoods running from $220,000 to $350,000. A handful of new developments cater to first-time buyers or small families who want a quick commute to Knoxville or the airport. Alcoa also has some rental opportunities if you’re not ready to buy immediately.

Commute & Amenities
You’re about 15-25 minutes from downtown Knoxville via Alcoa Highway—assuming you don’t get stuck in construction (and there’s often construction). Shopping is easy, with major retailers sprinkled along the highway, and Maryville’s downtown is just a few minutes away if you crave a more quaint restaurant scene.

Local Insider Take
Alcoa flies under the radar for a lot of relocators, but its location can’t be beat. You can be at the Smoky Mountains or UT campus in less than half an hour, and if you fly frequently, you can practically roll out of bed and be at the airport. Just be aware that the area around the highway is heavily commercial, so if you’re looking for scenic farmland, Alcoa might not scratch that itch.

 

4. Powell: The Underdog Suburb North of Downtown

Population & Vibe
Head north of Knoxville proper, and you’ll find Powell, an unincorporated community with a more rural flavor. There’s no official city population count, but estimates hover around 13,000 to 15,000 folks. Powell’s had a growth spurt lately, with new subdivisions popping up alongside farmland that’s been in families for generations. It’s a balancing act between modern suburban sprawl and old-school East Tennessee farmland.

Housing & Cost
Compared to the pricier west side suburbs, Powell can be a relative bargain. It’s not unusual to see 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch-style homes for under $300,000 if you jump on listings quickly. Newer builds go up to the $400,000–$500,000 range. Because it’s unincorporated, you may not have the same city services, which can be a plus (lower taxes) or a minus (less infrastructure) depending on how you see it.

Commute & Lifestyle
Commute times to downtown Knoxville can be 20-30 minutes, but I-75 can get clogged, especially around rush hour. Powell doesn’t have a flashy downtown, but it’s got its local diners, a few chain restaurants, and some community-centered events. If you’re looking for a place that’s less developed than Farragut or Turkey Creek, Powell might give you a little breathing room.

Local Insider Take
Some folks who grew up in Powell feel protective about preserving its rural heritage, while newcomers might want modern amenities. That tension can boil up in local Facebook groups or county meetings about new developments. Overall, Powell is for the buyer seeking a more laid-back, less cookie-cutter environment, with a (slightly) easier price point than the western suburbs.

 

5. Karns: Unincorporated Gem with a Community Vibe

Population & Vibe
Karns is another unincorporated spot west of downtown Knoxville, sandwiched between Powell and Hardin Valley. This area has exploded in recent years, attracting families who want a suburban life but can’t afford the premium of Farragut or Hardin Valley. Karns has more of a cohesive community vibe than you might expect—locals identify strongly as “Karns kids” (if they went to Karns High).

Housing & Cost
Expect typical suburban subdivisions with a range of house styles from 1990s brick to new builds. You can find mid-size homes in the $300,000–$400,000 bracket. Many neighborhoods have decently sized lots, sometimes backing up to farmland or wooded areas. Like Powell, Karns lacks an official city center, so it feels more sprawling.

Schools & Commute
Karns High School is central to community life—Friday night football is a big deal. You’re 20-25 minutes from downtown if traffic cooperates, and Turkey Creek shopping (in Farragut) is about the same distance in the other direction. Roads are a mix of two-lane highways and suburban sprawl, so if you commute daily, plan for some morning backups.

Local Insider Take
If you want the convenience of West Knoxville but can’t stomach the Farragut price tag or HOA-laden developments, Karns is a sweet middle ground. It’s not the most walkable area, so you’ll probably rely on a car for everything. But you’ll get a sense of community if you engage with the local schools or youth sports leagues.

 

6. Hardin Valley: The Rising Star

Population & Vibe
Hardin Valley used to be a bunch of farmland and a smattering of houses. Fast-forward to 2025, and it’s arguably the fastest-growing suburb in the Knoxville region. You’ll find strip malls sprouting up, along with modern subdivisions and the popular Hardin Valley Academy anchoring it all. The vibe is suburban, leaning toward upper-middle-class families and professionals who want new construction.

Housing & Cost
New construction rules here—tract-home builders are everywhere, putting up 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath homes with open floor plans and granite countertops. Prices usually start around $400,000 and climb from there. It’s not out of the question to see brand-new builds for $550,000–$600,000 if they’re in a fancy development with amenities like a pool or clubhouse.

Commute & Lifestyle
Hardin Valley is close to Pellissippi Parkway (I-140), which makes commuting to Oak Ridge or downtown Knoxville fairly straightforward—15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. It’s also near Turkey Creek’s massive shopping district, so chain restaurants, movie theaters, and big-box stores are within a quick drive. If you crave a local bar or coffee shop, you’ll find a few, but Hardin Valley is still figuring out its identity as a new suburban hotspot.

Local Insider Take
If you want shiny, brand-new everything and a strong public school system, Hardin Valley is your jam. But you will see constant construction, and some of the once-lush farmland is disappearing under asphalt and subdivisions. If that’s a bummer, look elsewhere. But if a modern, tightly knit suburban community with convenient commutes is your dream, it’s worth a look.

 

7. Oak Ridge: Science Town Turned Commuter Haven

Population & Vibe
Oak Ridge sits a bit northwest of Knoxville, historically famous as one of the key sites for the Manhattan Project. The city of about 31,000 residents still houses a significant national lab and a tech scene. That translates to a population that’s a mixture of scientists, engineers, families, and retirees who appreciate the relatively quiet lifestyle.

Housing & Cost
You’ll see everything from mid-century homes built for the Oak Ridge National Laboratory staff to newer subdivisions catering to those who commute to Knoxville or the lab. Prices range widely—renovated mid-century houses can hover around $250,000–$350,000, while larger homes in newer developments push $500,000 or more.

Commute & Culture
Oak Ridge is 20-35 minutes from Knoxville via Pellissippi Parkway. You can also easily hop over to Clinton or Hardin Valley for shopping. Locally, Oak Ridge has some surprising cultural offerings—museums, parks, the Melton Lake waterfront for rowing events, and a decent scattering of restaurants and breweries.

Local Insider Take
If you’re okay being a bit away from the hustle and bustle, Oak Ridge has stable housing prices, a unique local history, and the perks of the national lab’s presence (like good schools). For some, it’s too “removed” from Knoxville’s main action, but for others, that’s exactly the point.

 

8. Halls (Halls Crossroads): Quiet North Knoxville

Population & Vibe
Halls Crossroads (often just called Halls) is another unincorporated community north of Knoxville with a population around 11,000. It’s quieter than Powell in some ways, with a more “rural-suburban” blend. Residents are fiercely proud of their community, and if you’re not local, you might have trouble distinguishing Halls from Powell. Locals sure can, though.

Housing & Cost
Home prices in Halls can be quite affordable—anywhere from the mid $200,000s for older ranch homes to $400,000 or more for newer construction with scenic farmland views. Like other unincorporated areas, property taxes can be lower, which is a big draw.

Commute & Lifestyle
You’ll spend about 25-35 minutes driving to downtown Knoxville, mostly along TN-331 or US-441, which can get jammed during peak times. Halls has the typical suburban chain stores, but also pockets of farmland where you might occasionally get stuck behind a tractor on the road. It’s that classic East Tennessee scenario of old meeting new.

Local Insider Take
Halls is perfect if you want a relaxed pace of life and are okay with minimal nightlife. Locals joke that if you want a good time, you’ll drive into Knoxville. But families love the strong sense of community and the easy access to outdoor spaces like Beaver Creek or House Mountain.

 

9. Fountain City: Quirky, Tree-Lined Streets Close to Downtown

Population & Vibe
Often considered a neighborhood of North Knoxville, Fountain City feels like a suburb in its own right. It’s one of the older, established areas, with a population that merges families, retirees, and younger folks who can’t afford West Knoxville. Known for its namesake fountain and duck pond, Fountain City has a unique character—lots of mature trees, older homes, and a kind of “Mayberry” vibe if you get off the main drag.

Housing & Cost
You can find mid-century ranchers, Craftsman homes from the early 1900s, and a sprinkling of new builds shoehorned into older lots. Prices vary a lot—some older homes need updating but can go in the mid $200,000s. Renovated properties easily climb into the $400,000 range.

Proximity to Downtown
Fountain City is only about 10-15 minutes from downtown Knoxville, depending on traffic. Broadway is a straight shot to the city center, though it can get backed up at rush hour. The upshot? You can enjoy a suburban atmosphere while still having quick access to UT games, Market Square, and the Old City nightlife.

Local Insider Take If you’re looking for suburb-like living but want more personality than cookie-cutter subdivisions, Fountain City could be your sweet spot. Just expect some older infrastructure and occasional issues with traffic lights on Broadway. If you don’t mind a bit of an “urban-suburban hybrid,” Fountain City is a hidden gem.

 

10. West Hills/Bearden: Suburbia Right in the City

Population & Vibe
We’re cheating a bit here because West Hills and Bearden are technically part of the City of Knoxville, but they feel suburban enough to make the list. Located west of downtown, these areas are a blend of older established neighborhoods, commercial corridors, and upscale shopping centers. The vibe is suburban-luxe in parts, especially near West Town Mall, but you can also find some quirkier pockets.

Housing & Cost
Expect older ranch-style homes from the 1960s-70s in the $300,000–$450,000 range, depending on renovations. Some new infill developments push the $600,000 mark or higher. These neighborhoods are popular for their convenience—close to downtown, UT campus, and the interstate.

Lifestyle & Amenities
You’re near everything: West Town Mall, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods in Bearden, plus a string of local restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops. The Third Creek Greenway offers a slice of nature for biking or jogging, connecting to other greenways around the city. The location is A+ if you want an easy 10-minute commute to downtown (outside of rush hour) and the “hip” local spots that pop up around Bearden.

Local Insider Take
West Hills/Bearden is ideal if you want suburban comfort mixed with city convenience. You’ll pay a premium for that location and might deal with busier streets. But the upside? You can be at a fancy dinner or a UT football game in minutes, then retreat to a tree-lined neighborhood that doesn’t feel cramped or chaotic.

 

Which Knoxville Suburb Is Right for You?

Knoxville’s suburban scene is anything but one-size-fits-all. From Maryville’s mountain gateway to Hardin Valley’s new-construction boom, and from Farragut’s upscale sprawl to Fountain City’s vintage charm, each option caters to a different type of buyer. Want a quick drive to the Smokies? Maryville or Alcoa might be perfect. Craving bigger houses with modern finishes? Hardin Valley has you covered. Searching for a deal and a bit more elbow room? Powell or Halls might fit the bill.

One thing’s for sure: East Tennessee’s growth isn’t slowing down. These suburbs are transforming fast, meaning that what’s true today could shift drastically in a couple of years. If you’re eyeing a move soon, do the legwork—drive around on a Saturday, check out local shops, talk to neighbors, and get a feel for the place beyond the glossy brochures and real estate listings.

And remember: “Knoxville nice” is a real thing. People here tend to be down-to-earth, quick with a smile, and ready to help newcomers navigate the region. Just don’t be shocked when your neighbor invites you to a University of Tennessee tailgate or a church potluck within days of meeting you. That’s East Tennessee hospitality in action.

 

Final Word: Locals-Only Tips

1. Traffic Timings: Rush hour can be unpredictable. If you commute, do a few test drives at your usual travel times before you commit to a suburb.
2. Weather: East Tennessee is humid and can get serious storms. Keep an eye out for flood plains—some suburban homes sit near creeks that swell with heavy rain.
3. Local Food: No matter where you go, you’ll find local restaurants that blow chain spots out of the water—hunt them down.
4. Outdoor Life: You’re never far from a park, greenway, or lake. Even the “most suburban” suburb has an East Tennessee outdoor gem tucked away.
5. Community Events: Each suburb has its own vibe and local happenings—parades, farmers markets, craft fairs. Getting involved is the quickest way to feel at home.

No matter which suburb you settle on, Knoxville and its surrounding areas pack a lot into a relatively manageable region. So do your research, keep your eyes open, and trust your gut. You just might find that perfect slice of East Tennessee life you’ve been dreaming about.