I Followed My Kids to Tennessee, Now What?
Sponsored by: Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee
Living near supportive family members and friends can lead to game-changing improvements in quality of life, so it isn’t surprising that many parents and grandparents move to Tennessee to be closer to their children and grandchildren. While relocating to a different state can be challenging, Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee offers a wide array of services and resources to support transplants.
Let’s dig into how the Volunteer State is the ideal place for multigenerational families to live, how to navigate its diverse regions, essential types of insurance for transitioning lifestyles and ways Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee can help.
Understanding the Trailing Parent Phenomenon in Tennessee
In 2024, the National Association of Realtors’ Migration Trends report revealed that 46% of its clients moved to the South, and those relocating were driven primarily by the desire to be closer to family and friends (30%) and to get more home for their money (21%). Additionally, the U.S. Census Bureau data named Tennessee as one of the top 20 states with the highest net migration in 2023.
Jessica Lautz, NAR’s deputy chief economist and vice president of research, noted in the report that homebuyers are seeking areas with solid support systems. “It is no surprise that the Sun Belt states continue to attract movers within the U.S., but this report helps to highlight just how much the draw to be close to one’s friends and family drives a relocation,” Lautz says.
The desire to reside near the comfort and companionship of family and friends helps explain the “trailing parent phenomenon,” which refers to how elderly parents follow their adult children to new locations for mutual social and emotional support and to help with childcare, household chores or other needs. And Sun Belt states such as Tennessee are popular destinations for households with members of all ages, thanks to their supportive and family-friendly atmospheres.
Navigating Tennessee’s Diverse Regions
Tennessee is an excellent place for trailing parents to settle down thanks to its low cost of living, lack of state income tax (including on retirement income) and varied lifestyle options. There are three distinct regions across the state, ranging from the mountains in East Tennessee to the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee and the riverfront wonders in West Tennessee. Here are some benefits to living in each region.
West Tennessee, especially around Memphis, offers excellent affordability and access to major medical centers, making it a good fit for seniors on a fixed income who prioritize health care and urban conveniences. Lower property values make the region attractive for homebuyers, and the rental market is also very affordable if you’re unsure about a long-term commitment.
Middle Tennessee, centered around Nashville, caters to socially active transplants who want access to top-tier health care, cultural attractions and well-established neighborhoods. While housing prices are higher, many 55-plus communities and suburban towns, such as Franklin and Murfreesboro, offer options with plenty of amenities and opportunities for community engagement, especially for retirees who want to be near family and maintain an active lifestyle.
East Tennessee stands out for its scenic beauty and laid-back atmosphere. Cities like Chattanooga and Knoxville are well-suited for those who enjoy a quiet lifestyle and outdoor activities. Renting is ideal for flexibility, but buying can be a smart investment in certain cities due to the steady growth in property values.
Insurance Coverage You Need For a Transitioning Lifestyle
Make sure you have the right insurance policies for your situation.
- Renters insurance: If you’re living in temporary housing or exploring what it’s like to live in different areas of your new state, renters insurance helps cover your personal belongings and provides liability coverage in case someone is injured on your rental property.
- Homeowners insurance: Once you establish a permanent residency, homeowners insurance helps protect your house and personal property from damage or loss caused by severe weather and events such as fires and theft. Be sure to ask about supplemental policies that cover events such as flooding, which isn’t covered in typical policies.
- Auto insurance: Plan to drive in Tennessee? In Tennessee, drivers are required to provide proof of financial responsibility in the event of an auto accident, which most people do by purchasing liability automobile insurance with the state minimum liability coverage. To make things more affordable, inquire about potential auto insurance discounts you can get by maintaining a safe driving record and bundling policies.
- Life Insurance: A life insurance policy is essential for estate-planning purposes and to ensure your loved ones are financially protected after your death. It can help prevent strain on family members by helping to cover the cost of funeral, medical and end-of-life expenses.
Resources for Finding Community and Connection
Relocating can be stressful, but the payoff is well worth the effort, especially when you have the support of a friendly community. Once you’ve made the move and get settled in your new home, explore local groups and organizations based on your interests, volunteer for causes you care about and attend community events. Public libraries and local senior centers, which often offer a variety of programs and activities, are excellent places to start.
The friendly folks at Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee (FBITN) are here to help you get the coverage you need. The community-centered company was founded in 1948 by local farmers and has evolved to include more than 200 offices across the state. FBITN understands the rewards and challenges of living in The Volunteer State and can offer tailored solutions and the best rates to help you live your best Tennessee life.