Kingsport Spirit

The mid-year home sales report for Northeast Tennessee highlights a region experiencing steady demand, with Kingsport and Johnson City leading the way. Kingsport recorded 608 home sales year-to-date—just over 10% more than Johnson City’s 548—positioning it as the region’s most active housing market. Yet what makes Kingsport particularly notable is its combination of volume and affordability. With a median sale price of $252,000, Kingsport remains well below the regional average of $288,450 and far more accessible than nearby communities like Jonesborough ($405,000), Gray ($362,500), or Piney Flats ($425,000).

This balance suggests that Kingsport remains a magnet for middle-income buyers and first-time homeowners. While smaller towns command higher prices due to limited inventory or niche appeal, Kingsport offers a broader selection of housing, ranging from post-war homes in established neighborhoods to newer subdivisions on the city’s edge.

Kingsport’s appeal extends beyond just price. It’s a regional anchor, with access to major highways, respected healthcare facilities, steady employment base, and the top-performing public schools in the region. Its modest pricing keeps it attractive to both in-state buyers and newcomers. It consistently delivers value and volume—two signs of a healthy, stable market.

In a time when affordability is vanishing in many places, Kingsport shows that growth doesn’t have to mean exclusion. Its strong sales figures and balanced pricing reflect a community that is growing steadily while still offering opportunity. As Northeast Tennessee evolves, Kingsport’s role as a housing leader—and a livable, accessible city—seems firmly secured.