Tennessee used to feel like the South’s golden ticket—no state income tax, booming cities, and a lower cost of living than its neighbors. For years, locals watched people pour in and thought, “I get it.” In 2026, though, more lifelong Tennesseans are quietly admitting the tradeoffs are stacking up.
Housing prices shot up fast
Homes that once felt affordable now come with eye-popping price tags. Many locals feel priced out of cities they grew up in.
Rent increases are relentless
Yearly jumps have become normal in places like Nashville and Knoxville. Stability feels harder to find.
Traffic wasn’t built for this growth
Rapid population increases overwhelmed highways and local roads. Commutes that used to be easy now drain…..