10 Reasons We Love Buying Land in Tennessee

Tennessee's diverse landscape and rich natural resources make it an increasingly attractive destination for land buyers. According to the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, the state boasts over 10.8 million acres of farmland, with an average farm size of 155 acres. This abundance of available land, combined with Tennessee's varied topography and climate, offers numerous opportunities for both agricultural and recreational use. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) reports that Tennessee has approximately 4.8 million acres of cropland, highlighting the state's agricultural potential. 

Furthermore, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency notes that nearly 14% of the state's land area is publicly owned and managed for conservation and recreation, providing a balance between development and preservation. These factors contribute to the growing appeal of buying land in the Volunteer State, and in this article, we'll explore ten compelling reasons why Tennessee has become a hotspot for land investment.

Reasons We Love Buying Land in Tennessee

1. Majestic Mountains and Pristine Wilderness

The crown jewel of Tennessee has to be the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, home togrand vistas and spectacular biodiversity. Hikers delight in exploring 800 miles of trails through lush forests and alpine meadows. Wildlife like black bears, white tailed deer, wild turkeys and over 200 species of birds thrive in this unspoiled wilderness. Just outside the park, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge lure visitors with family fun attractions. East Tennessee is also home to many state parks like Big Ridge, Norris Dam and Roan Mountain offering camping, fishing, boating and gorgeous scenery. Buy a secluded property here to build your mountain retreat.

2. Musical Cities with Funky Southern Flair

You can't talk Tennessee without mentioning the capitals of country and blues music. Memphis gave birth to rock n roll at Sun Studio while the Nashville's neon-lit Lower Broadway celebrates stars of yesterday and today. But Tennessee cities both big and small beckon with southern hospitality and funky charm. Owl hoot all night down Beale Street where BBQ ribs are slathered in tangy sauce. Two step at honky tonks under the watchful eye of Elvis' gold suit at the Country Music Hall of Fame. Have a midday dance party amid colorful murals and silos in trendy Eads or sip moonshine in good ole Gatlinburg. Knoxville, Chattanooga, Clarksville, Franklin and more all have unique personalities worth exploring.

3. Mild Seasons and Bountiful Outdoor Recreation

Tennessee enjoys four distinct yet mild seasons, allowing residents to stay active year-round. Summers get hot and humid but winters are relatively short and mild compared to northern states. Spring and fall see cool, crisp weather perfect for long hikes. The state gets ample rain to keep the landscape green and lush. Spend spring paddling and fishing for smallmouth bass on pristine lakes and rivers. In summer, cool off tubing down the Harpeth or Ocoee Rivers. Fall brings fiery foliage and crisp evenings around a campfire while winter offers a peaceful time to plan projects for your property.

4. Rooted History and Diverse Culture

Beyond music, Tennessee has been shaped by other historical events. Walk the solemn grounds of Civil War battlefields like Stones River and Shiloh. Pay respects at The Hermitage, President Andrew Jackson's beautifully preserved plantation. The state was also ground zero for the Civil Rights movement. Learn more at attractions like the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated and the Nashville Civil Rights Room. For Native American history, see ancient mounds and Sequoyah's Cherokee syllabary. Tennessee welcomes all cultures, making it a vibrant place to put down roots.

5. Small Town Charm and Community

While cities have their appeal, much of Tennessee retains a small town charm. Places like Lebanon with its walkable downtown and weekly concerts on the lawn, provide a slower pace of life. Farmer's markets thrive in communities like Bristol and Jonesborough where locals sell produce, crafts and more. Dandridge hosts unique events like the annual Tomatoes in the Park celebration. Small towns provide a tight knit community where everyone knows their neighbors. Buy land in an idyllic country setting easily accessible to a charming small town for the best of both worlds.

6. Mild Cost of Living and Tax Benefits

Compared to many parts of the U.S., Tennessee offers an affordable cost of living, especially in smaller towns. Housing, groceries, utilities and healthcare costs are below the national average. Buying land here means your money can stretch further to acquire more acres or finance property improvements. Tennessee also has no state income tax, and property tax rates are modest. Agricultural landowners benefit from the "Greenbelt Law" reducing taxes on working farms. These perks help land ownership be more attainable.

7. Down Home Cuisine and Artisanal Products

From fiery hot chicken to sweet, gritty cornbread, Tennessee cuisine comforts and satisfies. Try regional specialties like dry rub ribs in Memphis or tomato pie in East Tennessee. Of course, no trip is complete without sampling bourbon in Lynchburg, the home of Jack Daniel's Distillery. For a real treat, score tickets to the Jack Daniel's World Championship Invitational Barbecue Contest held each year in Lynchburg. Beyond cuisine, Tennessee crafts world-renowned products like Gibson guitars, Allen Edmonds shoes, and arts inspired by the natural beauty of the Smokies. Set up your own workshop on acreage to craft unique Tennessee goods.

8. Convenience of Location

Situated in the Southeastern U.S., Tennessee provides easy access to the entire region. Day trip to the white sand beaches of Florida's panhandle or explore the historical sites dotting the east coast. The music scene of New Orleans, quaint towns of North Carolina, roller coasters of Dollywood and more are all within reach. Both Interstates 40 and 75 intersect Tennessee easing connections nationwide by car while international airports serve major hubs. A Tennessee land purchase makes a strategic base to launch regional adventures.

9. Dynamic Growth and Opportunity

Tennessee is on an upward growth trajectory, fueling economic development and demand for land. Major job creators like Volkswagen, Nissan North America and FedEx bring new residents. Tourism continues climbing with over 126 million visitors annually. The state population is increasing rapidly, concentrated around cities like Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis and Chattanooga. With ample recreational amenities attracting new residents, land near these high growth areas offers strong investment potential. Buy vacant acres now before prices climb out of reach!

10. The "Volunteer State" Spirit

Volunteerism is woven into the state's history and culture. From the pioneers who migrated here to Davy Crockett's sacrifice at the Alamo, Tennessee has a storied tradition of lending a hand. This hospitality endures today. Strangers offer warm smiles and hold doors open for others They gladly give directions if you're lost or welcome new folks into the community. This generosity of spirit creates a sense of belonging here. Buying land lets you sink your roots deep into the Volunteer State's welcoming soil.

With rich culture, diverse landscapes, southern hospitality and temperate weather, Tennessee has wide appeal. Investing in land here can provide a fruitful money-making opportunity or allow you to pursue a peaceful country lifestyle. Whether you dream of wooded hills for hiking, open pastures for horses or farmland to grow crops, Tennessee has acreage options aplenty. Begin your land search today and discover the property possibilities in this dynamic state!

Final Thoughts

The Volunteer State offers abundant opportunities for land ownership. From the mountain majesty of the Smokies to the rolling pastures of middle Tennessee, the state's diverse landscapes provide a scenic backdrop for country living. The mild climate, central location, and welcoming communities make Tennessee an inviting place to put down roots. Buying land here allows you to tap into the state's rich cultural heritage, enjoy four distinct seasons, and access endless outdoor recreation. With dynamic growth and demand for property near expanding urban hubs, Tennessee offers strong investment potential too. For natural beauty, southern charm, and temperate weather, look no further than the bountiful lands of Tennessee.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the main benefits of buying land in Tennessee?

Some of the top benefits of buying land in Tennessee include gorgeous scenery, mild weather and four distinct seasons, plentiful lakes and rivers, low cost of living, excellent investment potential, and convenience of location. The state also has a rich history, down home cuisine, and welcoming small towns.

What parts of Tennessee are most popular for buying land?

East Tennessee near the Great Smoky Mountains is popular for its stunning vistas and pristine wilderness. Middle Tennessee draws buyers for its music cities like Nashville and laidback charm. Land outside Knoxville, Chattanooga, Memphis and other growing urban areas also sees high demand.

What types of land are available to purchase in Tennessee?

You can find all types of land for sale in Tennessee - wooded acreage, open pasture or cropland, properties with existing homes, commercial/industrial sites, ranches, hunt land, riverfront parcels, and more. The state has something for every lifestyle and budget.

What is the average price per acre for Tennessee land?

Land prices vary considerably based on location and type. As a benchmark, the statewide median price as of 2022 was around $3,500 per acre. Land near major cities averages $10k per acre and higher, while rural land can sell for $1k-$3k per acre. Mountain land often fetches higher premiums.

Are there any incentives for owning agricultural land in Tennessee?

Yes, Tennessee offers beneficial tax breaks for agricultural landowners. The state has no income tax and property tax rates are modest. The Greenbelt Law provides steep property tax discounts for working farms. There are also tax relief programs for elderly and disabled agricultural landowners.

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