Why Knoxville Tennessee is a Great Place to Live

 

Knoxville, Tennessee is a small but bustling city situated in East Tennessee. It boasts the state's largest university, numerous national parks, and an exciting downtown area. No matter if you're searching for a place to call home in the mountains, a college town, or a big city, this charming, historic area has something special for everyone.

1. Easy access to the mountains

Knoxville's mountainous surroundings provide easy access to some of Tennessee's most stunning sights. Hiking, skiing, snow tubing - there's something for everyone in this part of America! No matter your level of outdoor adventure, Knoxville and its surroundings offer something special. One of the best places for a hike in Knoxville is Ijams Nature Center, part of Knoxville's Urban Wilderness initiative. This 315-acre park is ideal for families and offers various activities like environmental education programs, biking, kayaking, climbing, and more. Another place worth visiting is Zoo Knoxville, a world-class zoo where visitors can view hundreds of animals from around the world in their natural environments. It makes for an exciting family day out with its splash pad, theater, and carousel!

When it comes to entertainment, the Tennessee Theatre is one of the best options for families with young kids. This 1920s movie theater has been restored and transformed into a top-performing arts venue that presents various shows such as movies, symphonies, stage plays, and operas. Classic movie buffs must visit this restored building, once known as a "movie palace". With original crystal chandeliers, Moorish-style architecture, and marble floors still present today, it is an unmissable sight. If you're looking to explore the mountains during winter, Ober Gatlinburg is a must-visit destination. Here, skiers and snowboarders alike can enjoy snow tubing and ice skating activities. Plus, it's close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for some outdoor adventure!

2. Low crime rates

Knoxville Tennessee boasts crime rates below the national average, making it a safe place to live and raise a family. Violent crimes in Knoxville tend to be lower than in many other U.S. cities, making it a desirable place for many people to reside. Property crime rates in this area are very low, making it a great place to shop and spend your money. Another draw of Knoxville is its affordable housing options. Home prices here are 12% lower than the national average, meaning you can afford a higher-quality or larger house for your family at an affordable price point.

Before making the move to Knoxville, be sure to do your due diligence and research the city's safety zones. This way, you'll know which parts of town are secure and which ones should be avoided. When assessing crime risk, it's essential to take into account both the total number of crimes and their rate per 1,000 residents. For instance, if more crimes occur in northeast parts of a metro area, that area may not be as safe as its southeast counterpart.

Parks and other recreational areas often appear high on crime maps due to the number of people visiting them. Knoxville residents generally strive to keep their neighborhoods secure using security cameras and firearms. This is an effective way to safeguard yourself and your family's safety. Additionally, there are other ways to keep yourself secure while in the area. These include turning off your phone, remaining aware of your surroundings, and using parking garages whenever feasible.

3. Affordable housing

Affordable housing is a major issue in Knoxville, TN. Although living here has lower costs than the national average, many families still face difficulty finding affordable apartments. For those seeking to rent an apartment, there are numerous programs and resources available that can assist them in finding affordable accommodation. One of the most popular methods to locate a low-cost apartment is through HotPads. These websites let you search for apartments based on your budget and preferences, plus they provide features to help negotiate the best possible price for your new residence. Another way to get a cheaper rental apartment is by applying for Section 8 vouchers. These programs provide rental assistance to families earning very low incomes. To apply, complete an application and submit your income and household details to the Housing Authority of Knox County.

The agency will determine your eligibility and then present you with a list of available apartments in Knoxville Tennessee that meet your qualifications. Typically, rent for these apartments is around 30% of your adjusted income. Aside from the Section 8 Voucher program, Knoxville Tennessee also offers other affordable housing options. These include subsidized senior living communities, low-income apartment complexes, and housing units for people with disabilities. Senior residents can take advantage of the Section 202 program, which offers subsidized housing tailored specifically for seniors. These apartments tend to be wheelchair accessible and include amenities like on-site service coordinators and activities. In addition, Knoxville is working to increase the affordable housing supply in the region. In February, the City Council unanimously adopted a resolution funding two affordable housing projects located at 4502 Fennel Road and 7823 Gleason Road.

4. Excellent schools

Knoxville Tennessee boasts an array of outstanding schools, both public and private. These establishments provide quality instruction for children from preschool through high school. The University of Tennessee in Knoxville offers students the chance to pursue a variety of subjects while earning their degrees. The campus oozes energy and tradition, with plenty of clubs, organizations, and student life activities that will help build connections. For those seeking a more traditional education, several private schools in the area are highly regarded for their educational programs. Many of these establishments are Christian-based and strive to instill spiritual values in their students.

These schools are accredited by both the Association of Christian Schools International and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, offering a diverse selection of academic courses. Subjects covered range from religion to history, math to science - you name it! These accredited institutions provide instruction in many different areas such as religion, history, math, and more. Paideia Academy is one of the top private schools in Knoxville Tennessee, offering an academic program founded on a biblical worldview that stresses faith and Christian morality. Grace Christian Academy is an excellent private school that strives to teach its students life skills and strong faith. Its curriculum adheres to state standards while integrating Christian principles into instruction, plus there's an extensive list of extracurricular activities available. Finding the ideal school and district in Knoxville for your child can be a challenge. But with our rankings and reviews, you're sure to find a school that meets all of your criteria.

5. Great food

Knoxville Tennessee boasts an abundance of great food that draws both tourists and residents to the area. From chain restaurants to sit-down cafes, to eateries serving every major ethnic cuisine imaginable, Knoxville has something for everyone when it comes to restaurants. Knoxville'st op restaurants offer delectable dishes made with fresh ingredients and creative presentation, such as pizzas made with ingredients sourced locally. These establishments set themselves apart with their delicious dishes and unique presentation, making them the go-to restaurants for foodies in search of authentic local flavors. Experience the good life at Stock and Barrel on Market Square, home to one of Knoxville's top-rated burgers. Order up a juicy burger served with duck confit fries and an array of bourbons to go along with it.

You can grab a bite to eat at Calhoun's On the River, an iconic barbecue chain. This local favorite offers an expansive patio where you can relax with your beer and delicious meal. For something unique, check out Wasabi Japanese Steakhouse. This local favorite has been around for years and offers sushi and hibachi-style steaks sure to please any palate. When looking for a special place to dine with someone special or an intimate group of friends, the Bistro by the Tracks is an ideal option. Their wine list is extensive, and their dinners are romantic and cozy. After enjoying an exquisite dining experience, Cruze Farm Dairy offers some of the finest ice creams in East Knoxville. Their two locations - one downtown and one east - provide creative flavors while you sit back and take in the view.