These Tennessee Cities Ranked Among the ‘Best Places to Live’ in 2024

The Volunteer State Shines on U.S. News and World Report’s latest Rankings List

While the top echelons of the most favoured places to dwell in the United States remained elusive to the cities of the Volunteer State, according to a recent report by U.S. News and World Report, numerous Tennessee cities have still made their way onto the Top 150 list.

Chattanooga Takes the Lead

When it comes down to cities in Tennessee, Chattanooga was the highest-ranking, managing to claim the 27th spot according to the 2024-2025 Best Places to Live rankings published by U.S. News and World Report. Chattanooga has come a long way from being labelled as the dirtiest city in America, to now being recognized for its dynamic startup scene, premier outdoor recreation, and a rejuvenated Main Street.

Recognition for Knoxville and Nashville

Hot on the heels of Chattanooga, Knoxville followed closely, securing the 29th position on the chart. The list highlighted the city’s affordability, a wide variety of amenities, and its convenient location in relation to larger metropolitan areas like Nashville and Atlanta.

Nashville, synonymous with its vibrant music scene, did manage to squeeze into the Top 50, landing at position 50, albeit being outpaced by several cities in Florida, Carolinas, and even Washington, D.C. The city’s burgeoning job market and abundant food scene kept it in the mix, though its affordability in comparison to others strained its overall performance.

Memphis Ranks Lower But Scores on Affordability

Memphis, another anchor city in Tennessee, was placed at 122 in the ranking. Despite its lower quality of life score, the city attracted attention for its affordability. Being one of the largest metro areas in the state, Memphis offers a close-knit community feel, making it an appealing destination for families.

Ranking Methodology

The cities were evaluated on several key factors to make it to these rankings. These include value, desirability, sturdy job market conditions, and a high quality of life. These parameters function collectively in creating an overall score that acknowledges the most suitable urban environments to settle in the U.S. based on the lived experience of its residents.

Closing Thoughts

While there is room for growth regarding how cities in Tennessee perform on these rankings, the mention of several key cities in the Top 150 suggests a favorable shift. With positive trends, more cities from the state could make their way into the higher ranks of these listings in the coming years.

By HERE News Network