Thinking about moving to Knoxville? In this guide, we’ll be covering the best neighborhoods in Knoxville, TN. Located in the heart of East Tennessee, Knoxville is a city that offers the best of both worlds—a lively downtown with urban amenities and close proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains for outdoor enthusiasts. Knoxville is home to the University of Tennessee, which lends the city a vibrant, youthful energy while its history, arts scene, and southern hospitality make it a charming place to call home. Whether you’re drawn by the job opportunities, outdoor recreation, or cultural attractions, Knoxville offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit any lifestyle.
From family-friendly suburbs to trendy urban areas, Knoxville has a neighborhood for everyone. Below, we explore some of the best neighborhoods in Knoxville, providing a breakdown of their unique qualities, amenities, and more.
Whether you’re considering relocating or simply exploring, here’s a guide to five notable neighborhoods in Knoxville, each with an overview, things to do, schools, housing options, and employment opportunities.
1. Downtown Knoxville
Overview:
Downtown Knoxville has experienced a renaissance in recent years, becoming a hub for culture, business, and entertainment. With historic buildings converted into modern lofts and an array of shops, restaurants, and art galleries, it’s the ideal location for young professionals, empty-nesters, and anyone looking to be in the heart of the action. The vibrant atmosphere of downtown makes it one of the most sought-after areas in Knoxville.
Things To Do:
Downtown Knoxville is home to popular attractions such as Market Square, the Tennessee Theatre, and the Knoxville Museum of Art. The area also offers a bustling food scene, trendy coffee shops, and a lively nightlife. Residents can enjoy outdoor concerts and farmers’ markets in Market Square, as well as easy access to the Tennessee River for recreational activities.
Schools:
Downtown Knoxville is served by several public schools within the Knox County School District, including Vine Middle Magnet School. For families looking for private education, the Webb School of Knoxville is one of the most prestigious private schools in the area.
Homes:
Housing in downtown Knoxville primarily consists of historic buildings converted into modern condos and lofts. There are also newly developed luxury apartments with scenic views of the city and river. Prices can range depending on the location and amenities, but downtown offers a range of options for those looking for urban living.
Work:
Downtown Knoxville is the city’s business hub, with job opportunities in sectors like healthcare, finance, and education. The University of Tennessee also offers a variety of employment options. For professionals who want to live and work in the same area, downtown is a convenient choice.
2. Sequoyah Hills
Overview:
One of Knoxville’s most prestigious neighborhoods, Sequoyah Hills is known for its large, elegant homes, tree-lined streets, and scenic views of the Tennessee River. This historic neighborhood offers a tranquil, suburban feel while being just a short drive from downtown. Sequoyah Hills is popular among families and professionals seeking an upscale, quiet community with plenty of green space.
Things To Do:
Sequoyah Hills Park, located along the river, offers walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The park is perfect for residents who enjoy outdoor activities and provides beautiful views of the water. The neighborhood also has easy access to nearby shopping and dining options in Bearden.
Schools:
Sequoyah Hills is home to some of Knoxville’s top-rated public schools, including Sequoyah Elementary School. Private school options, like the Webb School and the Episcopal School of Knoxville, are also nearby, making this neighborhood a great choice for families.
Homes:
Homes in Sequoyah Hills are typically large, historic properties featuring colonial, Tudor, and mid-century architecture. Many homes have spacious yards, and some offer views of the Tennessee River. The neighborhood is known for its high-end real estate, with home prices reflecting its prestige and desirability.
Work:
With its proximity to downtown, many Sequoyah Hills residents commute to work in Knoxville’s central business district or at the University of Tennessee. The neighborhood’s peaceful environment, combined with its accessibility, makes it a prime location for professionals.
3. Fountain City
Overview:
Fountain City is a popular neighborhood located in North Knoxville, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, parks, and affordable housing options. The area has a small-town charm, with tree-lined streets and a variety of local businesses. Fountain City offers a relaxed suburban lifestyle with convenient access to the amenities of downtown Knoxville.
Things To Do:
Fountain City Park is a local favorite, offering a serene pond, walking paths, and picnic areas. Residents can also enjoy nearby shopping and dining at the Fountain City shopping district. The neighborhood is close to several golf courses and recreational areas, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
Schools:
Fountain City is served by several well-regarded public schools, including Gresham Middle School and Central High School. There are also nearby private school options, such as Knoxville Catholic High School, for families looking for alternative education.
Homes:
The neighborhood offers a mix of housing options, from charming mid-century homes to more modern developments. Fountain City is known for its affordability, making it an attractive option for first-time homebuyers and families looking for spacious homes with yards.
Work:
Many Fountain City residents work in downtown Knoxville, which is just a short drive away. The area is also home to various local businesses, healthcare facilities, and schools, offering employment opportunities for those who prefer to work closer to home.
4. Bearden
Overview:
Bearden is a thriving neighborhood located in West Knoxville, offering a mix of urban convenience and suburban comfort. Known for its shopping centers, dining options, and proximity to downtown, Bearden is a favorite among professionals, families, and retirees. The neighborhood’s central location makes it easy to enjoy the best of Knoxville without sacrificing a peaceful residential atmosphere.
Things To Do:
Bearden is home to several shopping centers, including the popular West Town Mall, as well as numerous local boutiques and restaurants. Residents can also enjoy nearby parks like Lakeshore Park, which offers walking trails, sports fields, and scenic views of the Tennessee River. Bearden’s vibrant arts scene is reflected in its local galleries and performance venues.
Schools:
Bearden is served by highly rated public schools, including Bearden High School and West Hills Elementary School. The area also has private school options, such as Sacred Heart Cathedral School, offering a variety of educational opportunities for families.
Homes:
Housing in Bearden ranges from historic homes and charming bungalows to new developments and modern townhomes. The neighborhood’s diverse housing options cater to a wide range of buyers, from young professionals to retirees. Bearden’s real estate market remains competitive due to its desirable location and amenities.
Work:
Bearden’s proximity to downtown Knoxville and major employers, such as the University of Tennessee and several healthcare facilities, makes it an ideal location for professionals. The neighborhood’s growing retail and restaurant scene also provides job opportunities for residents.
5. South Knoxville
Overview:
South Knoxville is a rapidly growing neighborhood known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, affordable housing, and artsy, laid-back vibe. This area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want easy access to parks, trails, and the Tennessee River. South Knoxville’s recent development has attracted new businesses and residents, making it one of the city’s up-and-coming areas.
Things To Do:
South Knoxville is home to the Urban Wilderness, a vast network of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running. Residents can also enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding on the Tennessee River. The neighborhood has seen an influx of new restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops, giving it a trendy, creative vibe. The Ijams Nature Center is another popular attraction offering nature programs, a quarry, and wildlife exhibits.
Schools:
South Knoxville is served by several public schools, including South-Doyle High School and Dogwood Elementary School. The area’s schools have improved as more families move into the neighborhood, and private school options are available in nearby neighborhoods.
Homes:
Housing in South Knoxville is diverse, ranging from older ranch-style homes to newly built modern properties. The neighborhood is known for its affordability, making it a popular choice for first-time homebuyers and those looking for a more relaxed, artsy atmosphere.
Work:
Many South Knoxville residents work in downtown Knoxville, which is just a short commute across the river. The neighborhood’s recent growth has also led to new local businesses and job opportunities within the area, particularly in retail, dining, and outdoor recreation industries.
In Closing
There you have it, our new “Best Neighborhoods In Knoxville” guide. While these are often considered to be top 5 locations to live in Knoxville, TN, there’s several amazing locations to live throughout the city and surrounding areas.
We hope you found this useful, be sure to check out our full moving to Knoxville guide.
Here at Fox Moving, we provide several different solutions to help you move to Knoxville and store your belongings there. We can also help with long-distance moving, interstate moving, residential moves, and much more.
When you need a Knoxville moving company, we’re here to help. Get started on your move now, give us a call at: 865-437-5555