Top 9 Mountain Towns to Live in Tennessee

While Nashville, Knoxville, and Memphis may grab all the attention, Tennessee has some incredible, more rustic places to live. You’ll find the Great Smoky Mountains on the Eastern side of Tennessee. This stunning area is home to nearly 520,000 acres of forested mountains. Between the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cherokee National Forest, the Tennessee mountain regions are some of America’s best-preserved outdoor locations. There’s a reason millions come to explore these destinations each year.

But why just visit? Eastern Tennessee is a great place for a vacation home or to set down roots full-time. Many different towns have proximity to the state’s stunning mountainous landscapes while providing a range of lifestyle choices. You can find it here whether you’re looking for a vibrant tourist destination or a peaceful mountain retreat. Check out some of our top picks for Tennessee mountain living:

Gatlinburg

Population: 3,700

Cost of Living Index:* 103.3/100

Median List Price 2022:** $680,000

Gatlinburg is a popular destination for tourists and residents alike. The small town has around 4,000 permanent residents, yet millions come through Gatlinburg each year. It is a juxtaposition.

The town is nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains and offers stunning views, hiking trails, and opportunities to explore the area’s natural beauty.

Not only do residents have the 800 miles of trails in the Great Smoky National Park, but the small town is bustling with attractions. If you’re looking for breathtaking views, head to the Space Needle.

For a closer look at some fascinating creatures, Ripley’s Aquarium has over 100,000 sea dwellers on display. And if you’re feeling adventurous, Anakeesta Adventure Park offers zip lining and other exciting activities. Or, check out Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area & Amusement Park for year-round skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.

If you’re looking for a fun day out, the downtown Parkway, referred to as the “Strip,” is the place to be. Park and spend hours strolling around, popping into fudge shops, moonshine distilleries, mini golf courses, and other stores.

Pigeon Forge

Population: 6,300

Cost of Living Index: 97.8/100

Median List Price 2022: $597,700

Another top choice for those seeking a mountain town lifestyle and lots of modern conveniences, Pigeon Forge is a busy mountain town that attracts thousands of visitors every year. This town is just outside Gatlinburg on the Great Smoky Mountain foothills but is home to some of Tennessee’s top attractions.

Visitors come here for Dollywood, an iconic theme park celebrating Tennessee’s mountain culture and heritage founded by country music superstar Dolly Parton. The park features roller coasters, live entertainment, and a variety of rides and attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

In addition to Dollywood, Pigeon Forge is also home to the Titanic Museum, WonderWorks, and the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster. A drive through downtown showcases some unique public art, like King Kong climbing the Empire State Building.

When you’re ready for outdoor fun, the town has plenty of hiking trails and opportunities for fishing, camping, and picnicking at the nearby national parks.

Sevierville

Population: 18,600

Cost of Living Index: 91.6/100

Median List Price 2022: $667,500

If you’re seeking a small town, then quiet Sevierville is the perfect place. While its population is greater on paper than tourist destinations like Pigeon Forge, it’s actually a spread-out area. The birthplace of Dolly Parton is slowly growing and gaining attention, from its iconic Sevier County courthouse to its statue of Dolly out front.

This Tennessee mountain town is just a short drive from Knoxville. It offers residents a slower-paced, more authentic Appalachian lifestyle with all the conveniences of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge nearby.

You can go hiking, hunting, fishing, and camping if you’re outdoorsy. Explore the Adventure Park Ziplines and Riding Stables or the Rainforest Adventure Zoo. If not, don’t worry! The city has plenty to offer too, such as the Tennessee Museum of Aviation.

Apple Barn Village is a top destination for Smoky Mountain tourists. The homemade apple fritters at the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant, the cider mill, and the famous apple butter, are key reasons people flock to this spot.

Sevierville is home to some of the best shopping in the area, including Tanger Outlets and Bass Pro Shops. The town also offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars to explore.

Pittman Center

Population: 461

Cost of Living Index: 102.1/100

Median List Price 2022: $674,000

If you want to experience authentic mountain living, then Pittman Center is your place. This tranquil town is located in Sevier County near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and outside Gatlinburg.

Although small, Pittman Center’s advantage is its access to enjoy the outdoors. Hiking, fishing, and camping are popular activities accessible in the National Park through the local Greenbrier entrance. Visit the Little Pigeon River area for some lovely hiking trails.

In addition to its outdoor activities, Pittman Center has several unique shops and restaurants, like Hungry Bear BBQ. Check out Mountain Laurel Mercantile and The Old Mill Pottery House Cafe & Grille for a slice of local life.

Wears Valley

Population: 6,000

Cost of Living Index: Unknown

Median List Price 2022: Unknown

Wears Valley is an unincorporated area near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This Tennessee mountain region is known for its breathtaking views and proximity to popular attractions like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Townsend.

Wears Valley is the perfect choice to get away from it all when you’re tired of traffic and tourism. This Valley boasts stunning mountain views, a tranquil atmosphere, and a hidden entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area.

Trailheads are located right outside town, as are prime fishing spots and picnicking areas galore.

And if you need a break from all the nature, Wears Valley also has several shops and restaurants. Check out the Wears Valley General Store, Wears Valley Antiques, and Moonshine Ridge Country Store while you’re in town. The Valley also has a food truck park where you can taste local fare while listening to live music and exploring craft vendors.

Tellico Plains

Population: 763

Cost of Living Index: 77.8/100

Median List Price 2022: $267,900

Known as the gateway to the Cherokee National Forest, Tellico Plains is a small town located in the Appalachian Mountains foothills. Jump into nature with beautiful scenery from waterfalls, farmlands, and rolling hills. From here awaits a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities.

Tellico Plains has several hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping areas. You can explore the Bald River Falls or the Cherohala Skyway if you want a scenic drive. The fall colors are spectacular.

In addition to its outdoor activities, Tellico Plains offers several shops and restaurants, such as the Tellico Plains Mountain Bakery and the Tennessee Valley Winery.

Walland

Population: 520

Cost of Living Index: 91.2/100

Median List Price 2022: $485,000

Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Walland is a tiny town, or really a village, near the Foothills Parkway in Blount County.

Walland is best known for the luxury Blackberry Farm resort. This 4,200-acre retreat has a James Beard award-winning restaurant, winery, hiking trails, horseback riding, and more. You can also explore the Great Smoky Mountains Railway or take a scenic drive on the Foothills Parkway.

In addition to its outdoor activities, Walland has several shops and restaurants, such as the Walland General Store and the Smoky Mountain Diner.

Townsend

Population: 580

Cost of Living Index: 98.8/100

Median List Price 2022: $599,000

Located in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Townsend has the Cades Cove and Little River sections at its doorstep.

A must-see local attraction is the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center. It’s an open-air museum with beautiful wooden houses illustrating Southern Appalachian culture and architecture. If you’re interested in railways, the Little River Railroad has vintage trains on display, and the town has the Lumber Museum. As a resident, you’ll have easy access to great trails like Townsend River Walk and various paths into the heart of the Great Smokies.

In addition to its outdoor activities, Townsend also offers several shops and restaurants, such as the Tennessee Valley Winery and the Smoky Mountain Diner.

Mountain City

Population: 2,400

Cost of Living Index: 73.2/100

Median List Price 2022: $234,000

Mountain City is the county seat of Johnson County and the “Hub of the Mountains.” It’s in the far northeastern corner of Tennessee, a few miles from the North Carolina and Virginia state lines. Its highland location boasts stunning mountain views. The town’s other claim to fame is its long-running musical tradition. The Old Time Fiddlers Convention happens nearby yearly and celebrates the region’s music and culture.

Mountain City has nearby hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping areas. Doe Mountain Recreation Area is a top recreation destination with ATV and mountain bike trails. You can also explore the Appalachian Trail, which runs nearby, crossing over the Iron Mountains.

Downtown Mountain City has country cafes, restaurants, and shops like the Mountain City Trading Company. The Johnson County Center for the Arts showcases local artisans and craftsmen selling their creations.

So if you’re looking for a mountain town to call home, Tennessee has plenty to offer. From small towns nestled in the foothills to larger towns with all the amenities you need, there’s sure to be a perfect fit for you.

Live in a Tennessee Mountain Town

So if you’re looking for a mountain town to call home, Tennessee has plenty to offer. With its beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and unique shops and restaurants, there’s something for everyone in these Tennessee mountain towns. Learn about moving to Tennessee.

* Cost of Living Indexes are as of November 2022

**Median prices are as of October 2022