East Tennessee Multi-Generation Relocation Guide: Moving to East Tennessee

You aren’t the only one thinking about packing up the parents, the kids, and maybe even the siblings to head for the hills. We are seeing a massive shift in how people move and buy a home in East Tennessee. It used to be just a nuclear family transferring for a job, but lately, the phone rings more often with folks looking for “multi-family relocation” solutions.

In this context, we aren’t just talking about investors buying apartment buildings. We are talking about extended families moving together—whether that means buying a duplex for shared living, finding two houses on the same street, or securing acreage to build a true family compound.

Why East Tennessee? Beyond the obvious draw of the Great Smoky Mountains and the lakes, it comes down to a desire for a slower pace of life without sacrificing modern amenities. We have seen a “Zoom town” effect where remote work allows families to leave expensive coastal cities. They realize they can cash out a small bungalow in a high-cost area and buy a substantial amount of real estate here. If you are coordinating a move for multiple households, you are ahead of the curve, and this region is ready for you.

Why the Numbers Work: Cost of Living and Taxes

Let’s get right to the bottom line, because finances are usually the main driver for these big group moves. If you are moving from the Northeast or the West Coast, the savings here can feel like an immediate raise.

First, let’s talk taxes. Tennessee has no state income tax on wages. For a working family with multiple earners, that is instantly more money in your monthly budget. On top of that, our property taxes are significantly lower than the national average. When you are buying two homes or a large property for a multigenerational setup, such as buying a homestead, that lower tax bill makes a massive difference in your long-term holding costs.

Housing affordability is the other major factor. While prices have risen everywhere, the median home price in East Tennessee typically sits about 20% to 30% lower than the national median. You get more square footage for your dollar here.

Finally, consider your everyday running costs.

• Utilities: We benefit from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), which generally keeps our electricity rates lower than the national average.
• Gas and Groceries: While inflation hits everyone, the overall cost of living in East Tennessee usually hovers around 90 on an index where 100 is the national average.

When you combine low taxes with affordable utilities, the monthly “carry cost” of living in East TN is hard to beat.

Best East Tennessee Regions for Families

East Tennessee isn’t just one monolith; it’s a collection of distinct areas, each with a different “vibe.” Choosing the right hub depends on what your family needs most—whether that’s access to a major university or a quiet porch with a mountain view.

Knoxville and Suburbs

If you need access to strong job markets, the University of Tennessee (UTK), and bustling shopping districts, the greater Knoxville area is the sweet spot. Suburbs like Farragut and Hardin Valley offer excellent access to top-rated schools and modern amenities. You will pay a bit more here—median prices often range between $350K and $450K depending on the neighborhood—but you are close to everything.

The Tri-Cities

Further northeast, you have Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol. This area is becoming a haven for retirees and families looking for affordability. It is quieter and often 10% to 20% cheaper than Knoxville. With Ballad Health anchoring the region, healthcare access is solid, making it a smart pick for multi-generational households with older family members.

Chattanooga

While it sits at the southern edge of the region, Chattanooga is a major draw for tech workers thanks to its “Gig City” internet infrastructure. If your family creates a “digital nomad” compound, this is a great spot. It is heavy on outdoor recreation, though the terrain can be steeper and the market is competitive.

Scenic and Rural Areas

If the goal is land—say, 10 acres where you can build two houses and a barn—look toward Maryville (Blount County) or Sevierville. These areas put you right at the foothills of the Smokies. You get the vacation-style living and privacy, but you might have a slightly longer drive to the grocery store.

Housing Strategy: Duplexes, Compounds, or Clusters?

This is where the rubber meets the road. How do you actually house everyone? As a local agent, I see families tackle this in four main ways.

The Multi-Unit Hack This involves buying an existing duplex or triplex. You live in one side, and the grandparents live in the other. It is the most cost-effective method because you share a roof and maintenance costs. However, small multi-family properties in residential zones can be rare, so you have to move fast when they hit the market.

The “Compound” Strategy This is the dream for many: buying acreage in counties like Grainger or Blount to build multiple structures. You might have a main house and a Barndominium or a guest cottage.

• Local note: Always check zoning laws first. Some counties are strict about how many permanent dwellings can be on a single deeded property.

The “Cluster” Move Sometimes, the best way to keep the peace is to have separate deeds. We call this the cluster strategy. You buy two separate single-family homes in the same subdivision. You are close enough to walk over for dinner, but you have your own mortgages and resale value is generally easier to predict.

New Construction and Next Gen Suites Builders are catching on to this trend. We are seeing more new construction floor plans that feature “Next Gen” suites—essentially an apartment within the house with its own kitchenette and separate entrance. This is often the easiest path because it is turnkey; no renovations required.

Logistics: Coordinating a Multi-Household Move

Moving one family is hard; moving three is a logistical puzzle. The biggest question is timing the market. Do you try to sell your current homes simultaneously, or does one “scout” family move first?

In my experience, sending a scout family is safer. They can secure a rental or the first property, get the lay of the land, and help the others watch for listings. Trying to sync three different closings on the same day across state lines is a recipe for high stress.

You also need to look at employment hubs. If anyone in the group isn’t working remotely, check the commute to major employers like Oak Ridge National Lab or the various manufacturing hubs along I-75.

If you have children, navigating school enrollment is a priority. Districts like Knox County Schools or Maryville City Schools have specific zones, so you need to know exactly where that property line sits before you make an offer.

Lifestyle: What to Expect in East TN

Let’s take a break from the logistics and talk about why you are actually doing this. The quality of life in East Tennessee is distinct.

The outdoors are a part of daily life here. You have the Great Smoky Mountains National Park—the most visited national park in the U.S.—right in your backyard for hiking and scenic drives. If you prefer water, the TVA lakes like Norris, Tellico, and Watts Bar offer incredible boating and fishing. It’s not uncommon for families to spend their weekends on a pontoon boat rather than at a mall.

Climate-wise, you get four distinct seasons. The autumn colors are legendary, and while we get a dusting of snow in the winter, it’s generally mild compared to the North. You won’t be shoveling your driveway every morning in January.

Culturally, it is a mix of Southern hospitality and college sports energy. Fall Saturdays are dedicated to the Vols, and you will find local festivals nearly every weekend in the spring and summer.

Frequently Asked Questions About East Tennessee Relocation

Does Tennessee allow dual agency in real estate?

Yes, Tennessee allows dual agency, which is when one agent represents both the buyer and the seller in a transaction. However, it requires strict disclosure and written consent from all parties. If you are a large family buying multiple properties from different sellers, you generally want your own dedicated representation rather than relying on the listing agent.

What is the best town in East Tennessee to raise a family?

“Best” is subjective, but for access to parks, community centers, and top-tier schools, Farragut (outside Knoxville) and Maryville (in Blount County) are perennial favorites. Oak Ridge is also excellent if you value strong academic programs and history.

Can I build a second home on my property in East Tennessee?

It depends entirely on the specific county zoning and city ordinances. While rural counties are often more lenient regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) or second homes on large acreage, city limits (like inside Knoxville proper) have stricter density rules. You must verify the zoning classification before buying land for a compound.

Is it cheaper to live in Knoxville or the Tri-Cities?

Generally, the Tri-Cities (Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol) area is cheaper than Knoxville. You will often find that housing prices and some services run about 10% to 20% lower there, though Knoxville offers more big-city amenities and job diversity.

Are there multi-family homes for sale in Knoxville?

Yes, you can find duplexes and quadplexes in Knoxville, but the inventory is tighter than single-family homes. Because investors also target these properties for rental income, families looking to buy them for owner-occupancy need to be prepared to move quickly when a good listing appears.