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Living in Tennessee: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Tennessee | Expat Exchange
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Living in Tennessee

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 09, 2023

Summary: People often describe life in Tennessee as laid-back and friendly. People love the natural beauty of the state, the mild climate, and the abundance of outdoor activities. Tennessee is also known for its music, culture, and history. The average cost of living in Tennessee is slightly below the national average. The median home price is around $200,000, and the median rent is around $1,000. The population of Tennessee is approximately 6.8 million people. The largest cities in Tennessee are Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Clarksville. The cons of living in Tennessee include the high cost of living in some areas, the lack of public transportation, and the prevalence of tornadoes.

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Is the cost of living in Tennessee high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Tennessee, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Tennessee is generally considered to be quite affordable. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Tennessee is typically around $800 to $1,000 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from $1,000 to $1,500 per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Tennessee can cost around $15 to $20 per person," said an expat in Tennessee.

What type of recreational facilities are in Tennessee?

When we asked people living in Tennessee about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Tennessee offers a variety of recreational facilities for its residents to enjoy. From outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing, to indoor activities like bowling, skating, and movie theaters, there is something for everyone. Residents can also take advantage of the many parks and trails throughout the state, as well as the numerous lakes and rivers for swimming, boating, and other water sports. Tennessee also has a number of golf courses, tennis courts, and other sports facilities. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions to explore," remarked one expat living in Tennessee.

What is the weather like in Tennessee?

"In Tennessee, the weather is usually mild and pleasant. During the summer months, temperatures can reach into the high 80s and low 90s, with occasional thunderstorms. In the winter, temperatures can dip into the 30s and 40s, with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall are usually mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 70s," said an expat in Tennessee.

Are there good restaurants in Tennessee?

"One of Tennessee's favorite restaurants is The Catbird Seat in Nashville. Located in the heart of the city, The Catbird Seat offers a unique dining experience with a multi-course tasting menu that changes daily. The restaurant has been praised for its creative and innovative dishes, as well as its attentive and knowledgeable staff. Another popular restaurant in Tennessee is The Barn at Blackberry Farm in Walland. This restaurant offers a farm-to-table experience with a menu that changes seasonally. The restaurant is known for its fresh ingredients and its rustic atmosphere. Finally, St. John's Restaurant in Chattanooga is a favorite among locals. This restaurant serves classic Southern dishes with a modern twist. The restaurant is known for its friendly service and its cozy atmosphere," wrote one expat living in Tennessee.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Tennessee?

"People living in Tennessee typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local supermarkets, convenience stores, and department stores. Additionally, many Tennesseans shop at farmers markets, specialty stores, and online retailers," said an expat in Tennessee.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Tennessee?

"In order to obtain a visa to enter Tennessee, applicants must first submit an application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and a valid passport. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a visa that will allow them to enter the state. In order to apply for residency in Tennessee, applicants must first submit an application to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and proof of legal status in the United States. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residency card that will allow them to stay in the state," remarked one expat in Tennessee.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Tennessee?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Tennessee can be expensive. The cost of healthcare services and health insurance premiums vary depending on the type of coverage and the provider. Generally, health insurance premiums in Tennessee are higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services can be higher than in other states. Additionally, Tennessee has some of the highest out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services in the country," said one expat living in Tennessee.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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