Over the last 15 years, Downtown Knoxville has experienced a dramatic revival. What was once a quiet government corridor is now a thriving cultural and residential hub filled with shopping, restaurants, events, and a strong sense of community. From repurposed historic buildings to brand-new condos, downtown is now one of Knoxville's most desirable places to live, work, and play.
Downtown Knoxville encompasses a collection of neighborhoods and districts, including:
Old City
Gay Street and Market Square
Fort Sanders & University of Tennessee area
Downtown North and parts of Morningside
Together, they form a walkable, dynamic urban core with rich architectural history and modern amenities.
Downtown offers a diverse mix of housing options—from renovated historic buildings to sleek new developments. Popular buildings include:
The Holston: A former bank tower turned into luxury condos with skyline views
Sterchi Lofts: Spacious, industrial-style lofts in a classic high-rise
The Burwell: Elegant residences above the historic Tennessee Theatre
The Emporium Lofts and Southeastern Glass: Artistic, light-filled lofts in converted warehouse spaces
Lerner Lofts and The Mews: Boutique-style living steps from the action
Regas Square: A modern, full-amenity condo development near the Old City
Whether you want character-rich historic charm or modern convenience, downtown has something for every condo buyer.
Downtown Knoxville's culinary scene has exploded in recent years, with several restaurants led by award-winning chefs (some formerly of Blackberry Farm). Local favorites include:
Chivo Taqueria: Creative tacos and craft cocktails
Vida: Upscale Pan-Latin cuisine in a stunning setting
The French Market Crêperie: Authentic sweet and savory French crêpes
J.C. Holdway: Modern Appalachian cuisine from a James Beard Award-winning chef
The Oliver Royale, Kefi, Knox Mason, Emilia, and Bistro at the Bijou: Beloved by locals and visitors alike
Osteria Stella & Brother Wolf: Italian fine dining and aperitivo cocktails in the Old City
The Vault: A speakeasy-style bar tucked inside an old bank vault
Downtown is home to a variety of unique boutiques, locally owned shops, and cultural institutions:
OP Jenkins, Bliss, Mast General Store, Fizz, and Union Ave Books for retail therapy
Market Square Farmers' Market (May to November) offers fresh produce, handmade goods, and live music
First Friday ArtWalk: A monthly celebration of local art, food, and music in downtown galleries and shops
Bijou Theatre & Tennessee Theatre: Historic venues hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and performances year-round
World's Fair Park & Volunteer Landing: Greenspaces, fountains, concerts, and riverfront access
Covenant Health Park: Opened in 2025, this downtown stadium will host the Knoxville Smokies baseball team and One Knoxville SC soccer, with year-round events. See our full article here.
UT Sports, Ice Bears Hockey, and ongoing festivals make downtown lively year-round
Downtown is well-served by healthcare, with top institutions including:
Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center
East Tennessee Children’s Hospital
UT Medical Center
Families downtown also have access to respected schools such as:
L&N STEM Academy: A public magnet high school focused on science, technology, engineering, and math, located in the historic L&N Station
If you value walkability, architecture, culture, and a sense of energy, Downtown Knoxville might be the perfect fit. It combines the conveniences of city living with the warmth of a tight-knit community. Whether you're downsizing into a loft, buying your first condo, or seeking a vibrant new lifestyle, downtown offers unmatched access to the best of Knoxville.
Browse available condos and lofts or schedule a consultation. You can also dive deeper into the area with our full Downtown Knoxville Neighborhood Guide or explore nearby Emory Place.
1,891 people live in Living in Downtown Knoxville: Neighborhoods, Condos & City Life, where the median age is 34 and the average individual income is $48,137. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
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There's plenty to do around Living in Downtown Knoxville: Neighborhoods, Condos & City Life, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including The Village Mercantile, CAYE - Yelp Knoxville Takes Over Saw Works Brewing Company, and Sweet Smuckers Doughnuts.
Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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Dining | 3.64 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Dining | 0.9 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Dining | 0.21 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Dining | 4.79 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Shopping | 0.88 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 3.14 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 0.9 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 4.33 miles | 12 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 1.68 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Nightlife | 0.25 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 0.93 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 1.37 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 4.41 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 3.49 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 4.14 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Living in Downtown Knoxville: Neighborhoods, Condos & City Life has 1,136 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Living in Downtown Knoxville: Neighborhoods, Condos & City Life do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 1,891 people call Living in Downtown Knoxville: Neighborhoods, Condos & City Life home. The population density is 10,946.085 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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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!