Retiring to East Tennessee: What Buyers Should Consider

Retiring to East Tennessee: What Buyers Should Consider

  • Foster Boline Group
  • November 5, 2026

By Foster Boline Group

Mountain views, long boating seasons, and a manageable cost of living draw many people to East Tennessee when a career winds down. The region stretches from Knoxville’s established neighborhoods to quiet lake communities and small towns near the Great Smoky Mountains.

Each setting brings its own trade-offs in taxes, healthcare access, and upkeep. We help clients weigh those details before they choose a home.

Key Takeaways

  • Tax picture: Tennessee repealed its Hall tax on interest and dividends for periods beginning in 2021 or later.
  • Healthcare access: Major hospital systems serve Knoxville, Maryville, and Lenoir City.
  • Lake options: TVA reservoirs put thousands of acres of water within reach of Knoxville.
  • Travel convenience: McGhee Tyson Airport reported 32 nonstop destinations in spring 2025.

Why Retiring in East Tennessee Begins With the Tax Picture

Tennessee repealed its Hall income tax on interest and dividends for tax periods beginning January 1, 2021, or later. Sales tax still applies, with a state rate of 7% plus a local rate of up to 2.75% set by counties and some cities.

Taxes to Compare Before You Choose a County

Ask your tax adviser to model the full annual cost of a home in each county. Property tax and sales tax together shape the real monthly budget.

Healthcare Within Reach in Knoxville, Maryville, and Lenoir City

The University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville operates as a Level I trauma center and teaching hospital. Covenant Health’s Fort Loudoun Medical Center in Lenoir City added capacity through an expansion announced in 2023.

Questions to Ask About Care

Test the drive time at different hours before you commit to a location. A short trip on paper can feel much longer in traffic.

Lakes, Golf, and Tellico Village Convenience

TVA reports about 15,560 acres of water and 357 miles of shoreline on Tellico Lake. Tellico Village in Loudon County has three courses: The Links at Kahite, Tanasi, and Toqua.

Water Versus Fairways

Association rules vary from one community to the next. Request current documents before you make an offer.

Travel Convenience: McGhee Tyson Airport and the Smokies

McGhee Tyson Airport recorded 3.26 million passengers in 2024 and offered 32 nonstop destinations in spring 2025. Great Smoky Mountains National Park charges no entrance fee, though a parking tag is required for vehicles parked longer than 15 minutes.

Trips That Keep the Calendar Full

  • Tag fees: The National Park Service lists tags at $5 daily, $15 weekly, and $40 annually.
  • Park traffic: The park logged about 11.5 million recreation visits in 2025, according to National Parks Traveler.
  • Right-sizing: Read Is It Time to Downsize in Knoxville? if a smaller home suits your plans.
Weekday visits and early starts help you avoid the busiest periods. Your home base matters here, since some towns sit closer to the park entrances than others.

Seasons and Home Features That Last

National Weather Service normals for McGhee Tyson show about 52 inches of annual precipitation and roughly 4.6 inches of snow. That mix suits outdoor routines for much of the year, with rain more common than snow.

Features That Make Daily Life Easier

  • Main-level plans: Bedrooms and laundry on one level make everyday routines simpler for anyone.
  • Drainage: Check grading, gutters, and crawl spaces because of the region’s rainfall.
  • Storage: Garage and workshop space helps with boats, tools, and hobby gear.
A home inspection can reveal how well a property handles seasonal moisture. We can connect clients with local inspectors who know the area.

FAQs

How should I budget for retiring in East Tennessee?

Start with property taxes, sales tax, insurance, and any association dues, then add travel and healthcare costs. Compare two or three counties side by side, since rates and fees differ.

Which areas near Knoxville offer lake access?

Tellico Lake, Fort Loudoun Lake, Watts Bar Lake, Norris Lake, and Melton Hill Lake all sit within reach of Knoxville. Each has different shoreline rules and water-level patterns, so tour several before you decide.

Do I need flood insurance near a lake?

Most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage, according to a FEMA brochure hosted by TEMA. Ask your insurance agent for a quote before you finalize an offer.

Contact Us at Foster Boline Group

Contact us at Foster Boline Group to explore East Tennessee homes that fit the way you want to spend your days.


SHANNON FOSTER-BOLINE

SHANNON FOSTER-BOLINE

About The Author

ABOUT SHANNON FOSTER-BOLINE

Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial decisions people make — and it deserves thoughtful, strategic guidance, not pressure.

I’m Shannon Foster-Boline, a Realtor serving the Greater Knoxville area, including West Knoxville and surrounding communities. I work with buyers, sellers, and relocation clients who value clear communication, strong preparation, and a calm, informed approach — especially in higher-value and more complex transactions where details truly matter.

My role goes far beyond opening doors or managing contracts. I help clients evaluate options, anticipate challenges, and make confident decisions aligned with their long-term goals. Many of my clients are busy professionals, move-up buyers, and established homeowners who want an experienced advisor they can trust to manage the process efficiently and thoughtfully.

With more than 1,100 homes sold and over $270 million in lifetime sales, I bring deep local market knowledge and real-world experience to every transaction. I’ve represented a wide range of clients — from first-time buyers to luxury sellers — and I tailor my approach to fit each client’s priorities, timeline, and decision-making style.

MY APPROACH

Clients often describe working with me as steady, strategic, and reassuring.

I believe:

  • Strategy matters more than urgency

  • Local market insight matters more than national headlines

  • Clear communication reduces stress and leads to better outcomes

  • Preparation creates leverage — whether you’re buying or selling

My approach is best suited for clients who are prepared to engage thoughtfully in the process — with clear financial readiness, defined priorities, and an appreciation for strategic guidance.

I’m especially well-suited for clients navigating:

  • Move-up purchases and higher-value sales

  • Coordinated buy-sell timelines

  • New construction and well-designed modern homes

  • Established and architecturally distinctive neighborhoods

  • Complex negotiations requiring experience and composure

EXPERIENCE & LEADERSHIP

In addition to client work, I’ve been deeply involved in real estate leadership and education throughout East Tennessee. I’ve served in multiple leadership roles within East Tennessee Realtors® and Tennessee Realtors®, including President of East Tennessee Realtors®.

I hold several advanced professional designations, including:

  • Certified Residential Specialist (CRS®)

  • Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI®)

  • Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®)

  • Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE®)

  • Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES®)

These credentials reflect my commitment to education, ethics, and professional excellence — but my focus always remains on delivering thoughtful guidance and strong results for my clients.

BEYOND REAL ESTATE

Outside of work, I’m a mom, partner, and avid gardener who values community, connection, and a well-lived life.

I love travel, historic architecture, and exploring neighborhoods — both locally and abroad. Those experiences shape how I connect with clients who are navigating meaningful transitions and making big, often emotional, decisions.

CONSIDERING A MOVE?

Whether you’re actively planning a move or simply thinking ahead, I believe good decisions start with good information.

If you’re looking for an experienced, steady, and strategic real estate advisor — someone who values quality over volume — I’d be honored to help. If you’d like to better understand my approach and who I work best with, you can learn more about how I work with clients here.

Work With Us

We understand the elements of the individual needs and the unique process of each transaction. At the end of the day, we want you to walk away feeling that you have received an amazing experience with our team and that you have been able to realize your dream of selling or buying a home!

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