Forest Heights at a Glance
Forest Heights is one of Knoxville’s lesser-known historic neighborhoods, tucked just off the northwest end of Sutherland Avenue in the Bearden area. Developed primarily in the 1920s, the neighborhood reflects an era of residential planning that emphasized architectural detail, walkability, and proximity to daily necessities.
Characterized by winding streets, rolling topography, and a strong collection of stone Tudor Revival homes, Forest Heights offers a distinct sense of place that feels both established and quietly residential. The neighborhood’s scale and layout create an intimate, enclave-like atmosphere despite its central location within West Knoxville.
History & Preservation
Forest Heights developed as one of Knoxville’s early “automobile suburbs,” designed to provide a residential retreat just outside the city’s commercial core. While additional homes were constructed in the post–World War II era, the neighborhood’s architectural identity remains firmly rooted in its early 20th-century origins.
In 1992, Forest Heights was added to the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Forest Hills Boulevard Historic District, helping preserve its architectural integrity and long-term residential character. The neighborhood has a strong history of community advocacy, including successful efforts to protect its layout and cohesion over time.
Location & Connectivity
Forest Heights is ideally positioned within the Bearden area, offering exceptional access to shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences along Sutherland Avenue and Kingston Pike. While the neighborhood itself maintains a quiet residential feel, much of West Knoxville’s most diverse retail and restaurant options are just minutes away.
The area is also close to Third Creek Greenway and other recreational amenities, making Forest Heights appealing to residents who value walkability and access to outdoor activity without sacrificing central convenience.
Architecture & Neighborhood Character
Homes in Forest Heights range from stone Tudor Revival residences to Colonial Revival cottages and other period styles that reflect the neighborhood’s layered development. Mature trees, varied elevations, and thoughtfully placed homes contribute to a streetscape that feels organic rather than uniform.
The neighborhood’s architectural variety and preserved scale attract buyers who appreciate craftsmanship, historic detail, and homes with a sense of individuality.
Real Estate Overview
Real estate in Forest Heights is defined by limited inventory and steady demand, driven by the neighborhood’s central Bearden location and historic designation. Homes here tend to appeal to buyers who prioritize character, walkability, and long-term livability over large-scale new construction or master-planned communities.
Properties in Forest Heights often attract interest from professionals, academics, and move-up buyers seeking a home with architectural substance and proximity to Knoxville’s core amenities.
Is Forest Heights Right for You?
Forest Heights is well suited for buyers who value historic charm, an established neighborhood atmosphere, and the ability to walk or bike to nearby shops, dining, and greenways. The area appeals to those who want a residential setting that feels personal and grounded, while remaining closely connected to the broader Bearden community.
Buyers drawn to historic homes in similarly established, centrally located neighborhoods may also consider Old Westmoreland, another nearby community known for its mature trees, architectural variety, and enduring appeal.For those seeking architectural character paired with everyday convenience, Forest Heights offers a distinctive option within West Knoxville.
