Kingsport Spirit

Affordable housing is a hot topic across the country right now. With no state income tax, no vehicle tax, and low property taxes, Tennessee is seen as one of the most budget-friendly states to live in—but Northeast Tennessee stands out even more.

Kingsport, in particular, is gaining attention. It sees home sales similar to some of the most popular suburbs around Nashville, yet it remains one of the most affordable housing markets in the entire state. While areas near Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga lead in monthly home sales, they also come with the highest price tags. Memphis suburbs had fewer sales but still posted high median prices.

Clarksville also stands out for its mix of high sales volume and lower home prices. That’s no surprise, considering its home to Fort Campbell—one of the largest military installations in the country. Spanning over 105,000 acres and housing the 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell plays a major role in the city’s economy and growth.

Northeast Tennessee, on the other hand, is about 1 hour and 45 minutes from the nearest city with more than 150,000 residents, giving it the feel of a peaceful, suburban region made up of smaller cities and towns. The area is large enough to support its own airport, with flights to three major hubs and two vacation destinations, yet far enough away from big-city congestion, traffic, and sprawl.

In a time when high home prices are often tied to large metro areas, Northeast Tennessee offers a welcome alternative. With its low cost of living, strong housing activity, and high quality of life, this quiet corner of the state offers a balance that’s getting harder to find.