If you’re looking for a home in a neighborhood in Knoxville, TN this year, exploring the cities nearby might be your best bet. Although Knoxville is a good place to live, these neighboring cities offer a blend of affordability and accessibility, providing a range of options for both renters and buyers. Live at an arm’s reach away from Knoxville in these top cities. In this Redfin article, you can compare rent and housing costs, learn commute times, and find something that fits your budget and preferences.
1. Oak Ridge
Average commute to Knoxville: 30 min Median home sale price: $370,000 Average rent: $975
Oak Ridge is great for: Science and technology, outdoor activities, historical sites
Oak Ridge, often referred to as the “Secret City,” is known for its rich history in science and technology, particularly its role in the Manhattan Project during World War II. The city is home to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, a major employer and a hub for scientific research. The American Museum of Science and Energy is a popular attraction, offering insights into the city’s historical significance and scientific advancements.
The community vibe in Oak Ridge is welcoming and intellectually stimulating, with numerous parks and green spaces like the Oak Ridge Greenways providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The local economy is bolstered by the technology and research sectors, making it an attractive place for professionals in these fields. The city is recognized as one of the most affordable places to live in Tennessee. Residents enjoy a balanced lifestyle with a mix of cultural, educational, and recreational activities.
Oak Ridge is also known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental initiatives, making it a forward-thinking community. The city’s unique blend of history, science, and natural beauty makes it an ideal place for those looking to buy or rent a home near Knoxville.
Average commute to Knoxville: 25 min Median home sale price: $375,000 Average rent: $1,495
Maryville is great for: Friendly atmosphere, educational institutions, outdoor recreation
Maryville is a charming city known for its friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community. The city is home to Maryville College, a private liberal arts college that adds a youthful and vibrant energy to the area. The Foothills Mall and a variety of local shops and restaurants provide ample shopping and dining options.
Residents of Maryville enjoy easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The city’s economy is diverse, with key sectors including education, healthcare, and retail. The local parks and recreational facilities, such as the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway, offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and community events.
Maryville’s residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent schools, low crime rates, and a strong sense of community. The city’s blend of small-town charm and modern amenities makes it an ideal place to buy or rent a home near Knoxville.
Average commute to Knoxville: 20 min Median home sale price: $685,000 Average rent: $1,661
Farragut is great for: Suburban living, excellent schools, shopping and dining
Farragut is a thriving suburban community known for its excellent schools and high quality of life. The town offers a variety of shopping and dining options, including the popular Turkey Creek shopping center, which features a mix of national retailers and local boutiques.
The community vibe in Farragut is welcoming, with numerous parks and recreational facilities such as McFee Park and Anchor Park. The local economy is strong, with key sectors including retail, education, and healthcare. Residents enjoy a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the amenities of Knoxville.
Farragut is also known for its well-maintained neighborhoods and community events, which foster a strong sense of belonging among residents. The town’s combination of excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and convenient amenities makes it an ideal place to buy or rent a home near Knoxville.
Average commute to Knoxville: 20 min Median home sale price: $230,000 Average rent: $1,599
Alcoa is great for: Proximity to the airport, industrial jobs, outdoor activities
Alcoa is a city known for its industrial heritage and proximity to McGhee Tyson Airport, making it a convenient location for frequent travelers. The city is home to the Alcoa Corporation, a major employer in the area, and has a strong industrial and manufacturing sector.
The community vibe in Alcoa is friendly and down-to-earth, with a variety of parks and recreational facilities such as Springbrook Park and the Alcoa Duck Pond. The local economy is supported by the industrial sector, as well as retail and healthcare. Residents enjoy a balanced lifestyle with access to both urban amenities and outdoor activities.
Alcoa’s strategic location near the airport and major highways makes it an attractive place for those who value convenience and accessibility. The city’s blend of industrial heritage, community spirit, and natural beauty makes it an ideal place to buy or rent a home near Knoxville.
Average commute to Knoxville: 30 min Median home sale price: $316,000 Average rent: $1,494
Lenoir City is great for: Lakefront living, boating and fishing, small-town charm
Lenoir City is a picturesque community known for its lakefront living and small-town charm. The city is located near Fort Loudoun Lake, making it a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other water activities. The Lenoir City Park and Marina are popular spots for outdoor recreation and community events.
The community vibe in Lenoir City is relaxed and welcoming, with a variety of local shops, restaurants, and annual festivals. The local economy is supported by sectors such as retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. Residents enjoy a laid-back lifestyle with easy access to both the lake and the amenities of Knoxville.
Lenoir City’s unique blend of small-town charm, lakefront living, and community spirit makes it an ideal place to buy or rent a home near Knoxville. The city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty and fostering a strong sense of community makes it a desirable place to live.
Average commute to Knoxville: 40 min Median home sale price: $452,000 Average rent: $1,443
Sevierville is great for: Tourism, outdoor activities, friendly attractions
Sevierville is a vibrant city known for its tourism industry and friendly attractions. The city is the birthplace of country music legend Dolly Parton and is home to the popular Dollywood theme park. Other notable attractions include the Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and the Sevierville Golf Club.
The community vibe in Sevierville is lively and welcoming, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The local economy is heavily supported by the tourism sector, as well as retail and hospitality. Residents enjoy a dynamic lifestyle with access to numerous outdoor activities and cultural events.
Sevierville’s unique blend of tourism, outdoor activities, and friendly attractions makes it an ideal place to buy or rent a home near Knoxville. The city’s commitment to providing a high quality of life for its residents and visitors makes it a desirable place to live.
Average commute to Knoxville: 25 min Median home sale price: $325,000 Average rent: $770
Clinton is great for: Historical sites, community events, outdoor recreation
Clinton is a charming city known for its historical sites and strong sense of community. The city is home to the Museum of Appalachia, which offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture. The annual Clinch River Fall Antique Festival is a popular event that attracts visitors from all over.
The community vibe in Clinton is friendly and welcoming, with a variety of parks and recreational facilities such as Jaycee Park and the Clinton Community Center. The local economy is supported by sectors such as retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. Residents enjoy a balanced lifestyle with access to both historical sites and modern amenities.
Clinton’s unique blend of history, community spirit, and outdoor recreation makes it an ideal place to buy or rent a home near Knoxville. The city’s commitment to preserving its heritage and fostering a strong sense of community makes it a desirable place to live.
Average commute to Knoxville: 45 min Median home sale price: $238,000
Morristown is great for: Industrial jobs, outdoor activities, historical sites
Morristown is a city known for its industrial heritage and outdoor activities. The city is home to the historic Rose Center, which offers a variety of cultural and educational programs. The Cherokee Park and Panther Creek State Park are popular spots for outdoor recreation, offering hiking, fishing, and boating opportunities.
The community vibe in Morristown is friendly and down-to-earth, with a variety of local shops, restaurants, and annual festivals. The local economy is supported by the industrial sector, as well as retail and healthcare. Residents enjoy a balanced lifestyle with access to both historical sites and modern amenities.
Morristown’s unique blend of industrial heritage, outdoor activities, and community spirit makes it an ideal place to buy or rent a home near Knoxville. The city’s commitment to providing a high quality of life for its residents and preserving its natural beauty makes it a desirable place to live.
Average commute to Knoxville: 35 min Median home sale price: $265,000
Jefferson City is great for: Educational institutions, small-town charm, outdoor activities
Jefferson City is a charming community known for its educational institutions and small-town charm. The city is home to Carson-Newman University, a private liberal arts university that adds a youthful and vibrant energy to the area. The Mossy Creek Wildlife Viewing Area and Cherokee Lake are popular spots for outdoor activities.
The community vibe in Jefferson City is friendly and welcoming, with a variety of local shops, restaurants, and annual festivals. The local economy is supported by sectors such as education, retail, and healthcare. Residents enjoy a balanced lifestyle with access to both educational opportunities and outdoor activities.
Jefferson City’s unique blend of educational institutions, small-town charm, and community spirit makes it an ideal place to buy or rent a home near Knoxville. The city’s commitment to providing a high quality of life for its residents and fostering a strong sense of community makes it a desirable place to live.
Interested in moving to Jefferson City? Check out:
Average commute to Knoxville: 45 min Median home sale price: $580,000 Average rent: $834
Pigeon Forge is great for: Tourism, friendly attractions, outdoor activities
Pigeon Forge is a vibrant city known for its tourism industry and friendly attractions. The city is home to the popular Dollywood theme park, as well as a variety of other attractions such as the Titanic Museum and the Hollywood Wax Museum. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also nearby, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
The community vibe in Pigeon Forge is lively and welcoming, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The local economy is heavily supported by the tourism sector, as well as retail and hospitality. Residents enjoy a dynamic lifestyle with access to numerous outdoor activities and cultural events.
Pigeon Forge’s unique blend of tourism, friendly attractions, and outdoor activities makes it an ideal place to buy or rent a home near Knoxville. The city’s commitment to providing a high quality of life for its residents and visitors makes it a desirable place to live.
Methodology: All cities must be less than 50 miles away from Knoxville. Median home sale price and rent data sourced from the Redfin and Rent.com during June, 2024.
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Holly is part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about home improvement and lifestyle. Her dream home would incorporate both an industrial and biophilic design.
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