Why Everyone Is Moving to Knoxville
Knoxville has quickly become one of the ten fastest-growing cities in the United States, with a steady population increase of nearly 1 percent per year. By 2024, the city’s population reached over 200,300 residents, showing its growing appeal to both retirees and young professionals. With a median age of 33, nearly 45 percent of Knoxville’s population is between 20 and 40, creating a vibrant mix of energy, creativity, and opportunity.
Quality of Life: Big City Perks, Small Town Feel
Knoxville perfectly blends urban convenience with southern charm. The cost of living remains lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for young professionals, families, and remote workers alike. The city consistently ranks as one of the best places to live, work, and play in America thanks to its strong economy, affordable housing, and friendly community that welcomes newcomers with open arms.
With beautiful mountain views, scenic parks, and easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains, residents can enjoy nature without giving up modern city amenities. Knoxville’s appeal lies in its ability to offer a slower pace of life while still providing everything a growing city has to offer.
Arts and Culture: A Thriving Creative Scene
Knoxville’s cultural heartbeat is strong. The Knoxville Museum of Art highlights regional and national works, while the Tennessee Theatre and Bijou Theatre host Broadway shows, concerts, and classic films in beautifully restored venues.
From art walks and live music to film festivals and food events, Knoxville’s creative community continues to grow, adding color and excitement to everyday life.
Downtown Knoxville: Where History Meets Modern Living
Downtown Knoxville’s Gay Street and Market Square are the center of the city’s energy. Market Square is filled with local boutiques, outdoor dining, and a busy farmers’ market twice a week. The iconic Sunsphere, built for the 1982 World’s Fair, offers panoramic views of the city from its 266-foot-high observation deck.
Nearby, World’s Fair Park and the Knoxville Convention Center host concerts, events, and festivals year-round, making downtown a place where the city’s past and present come together.
Sports and Recreation: A City That Plays Hard
Knoxville’s love for sports runs deep. Home to the University of Tennessee Volunteers, the city comes alive on game days with a sea of orange and white. Sports fans can also enjoy the Knoxville Ice Bears hockey games or cheer on the Tennessee Smokies, a Minor League Baseball team, for a fun night out.
Outdoor Adventures: Nature at Your Doorstep
For outdoor lovers, Knoxville is a dream come true. The Ijams Nature Center offers 315 acres of trails, lakes, and wildlife, all just minutes from downtown. The Knoxville Urban Wilderness features more than 50 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and kayaking, creating one of the most accessible outdoor playgrounds in the country.
Whether you prefer paddleboarding, mountain biking, or a peaceful walk by the river, Knoxville makes it easy to explore the outdoors every day.
The Bottom Line
Knoxville’s growth is no surprise. It offers affordability, opportunity, culture, and a high quality of life that appeals to people from all walks of life. Whether you want to start a career, raise a family, or retire in comfort, it’s easy to see why so many people are choosing to call Knoxville home.