Moving from Florida to Tennessee: The Complete 2025 Relocation Guide

Relocating from Florida to Tennessee is a big move—and a popular one in recent years. With no state income tax, a lower cost of living, and stunning natural beauty, Tennessee is fast becoming a favorite destination for former Floridians. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the costs, considerations, lifestyle changes, and everything else you need to know before making the move.

1. What Is the Average Cost of Moving from Florida to Tennessee?

The cost of moving from Florida to Tennessee depends on several factors like the distance between your cities, the amount of belongings, and the services you choose. On average, a long-distance move from Florida to Tennessee can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000.

1.1. How Much Does It Cost to Hire Professional Movers?

Hiring professional movers is the most convenient option. It includes packing, loading, transporting, and unloading your belongings. The cost varies based on home size and exact location.

Full-service movers offer peace of mind and professional handling, making it ideal for families and those with valuable or bulky items.

1.2. How Much Does It Cost to Get Moving Containers Like PODS?

Using portable storage containers such as PODS offers flexibility. You can pack at your pace and have the container delivered to your new home.

PODS are especially useful for those who prefer a DIY packing approach but don’t want to drive a truck across states.

1.3. How Much Does It Cost to Get a Moving Truck?

Renting a moving truck is the most budget-friendly option, perfect for small moves or those on a tight budget.

Just remember, truck rentals require labor and long-distance driving, which can be physically and mentally demanding.

2. Is Moving from Florida to Tennessee a Good Idea?

Absolutely—Tennessee offers a wealth of benefits that make it an attractive option for those looking to escape the hustle, humidity, and high costs of Florida living. From the Smoky Mountains to its strong job market and vibrant music scene, Tennessee has something for everyone.

Many Floridians are drawn to Tennessee for its lower housing prices, beautiful landscapes, and friendlier pace of life. It’s a state that strikes a balance between southern hospitality and modern growth, offering both city life and rural charm. Cities like Nashville and Chattanooga are thriving hubs with growing tech and healthcare sectors.

Moreover, Tennessee’s cost of living is significantly lower than Florida’s, particularly in housing and utilities. Property taxes are also more affordable, making it a smart move for families, retirees, and remote workers.

3. Cost of Living: Florida vs Tennessee

Let’s compare the cost of living in Florida and Tennessee across key categories:

Tennessee edges out Florida in affordability, especially in housing and everyday essentials like groceries and transportation. This difference adds up quickly and can significantly impact your quality of life.

4. How Is Life Different in Tennessee from Florida?

Life in Tennessee is notably different from the sunny, coastal rhythm of Florida. First, there’s the climate. Tennessee enjoys all four seasons—lush springs, warm summers, colorful autumns, and light winters—offering a refreshing change from Florida’s year-round heat and humidity.

Culturally, Tennessee leans into its Southern roots with a deep love for country music, local traditions, and tight-knit communities. There’s a slower pace of life, especially in suburban and rural areas, where people often know their neighbors and local events are a big deal.

While Florida offers beaches and tourism hotspots, Tennessee boasts mountains, rivers, and national parks. You’ll trade palm trees for rolling hills and hiking trails, and the outdoor lifestyle can be just as rich, if not richer, depending on your interests.

5. Considerations Before Moving

Before relocating, there are several things to think about:

• Weather Adjustment: If you’ve lived your whole life in Florida, Tennessee’s colder winters and spring allergies may require some adjustment. However, the seasonal variety is something many Floridians come to enjoy.
• Employment Opportunities: While Florida has a larger job market in some sectors like tourism and aerospace, Tennessee is rapidly expanding in tech, healthcare, and logistics—especially in Nashville and Memphis.
• Education and Schools: Tennessee has made strides in improving public education, and cities like Franklin and Knoxville have highly rated school districts, though rural areas may still lag behind in resources.

6. The Best Florida to Tennessee Moving Companies

Choosing the right movers can make or break your experience. Based on customer reviews and cross-state moving capabilities, here are some top-rated options:

• Allied Van Lines: Known for long-distance moves, packing services, and real-time tracking.
• North American Van Lines: Offers full-service moving, storage solutions, and personalized moving plans.
• U-Pack: Great for hybrid moves—drop-off container service with optional loading help.
• Mayflower: Offers comprehensive moving services and valuation protection.

These companies have extensive experience navigating interstate regulations and ensuring timely delivery.

7. Top Moving Routes Between Florida and Tennessee

The route you choose can influence your moving time and cost. Here are the most common and efficient options:

• I-75 N Route: If you’re moving from Central or South Florida (like Tampa or Miami), taking I-75 North through Atlanta is a straight shot to Chattanooga or Nashville. This is the most direct and popular route.
• I-95 N to I-26 W: For those moving from East Florida (like Jacksonville), this route is scenic and runs through South Carolina and into East Tennessee.
• I-10 W to I-65 N: Ideal for panhandle residents, this route goes through Alabama before reaching central Tennessee. It’s a great option for moves to Nashville or Clarksville.

Whichever route you choose, plan for rest stops, overnight stays if needed, and potential traffic in metro areas like Atlanta.

8. Best Cities to Live in Tennessee

Tennessee offers a variety of living options—from urban centers to small towns. Here are some of the best cities:

• Nashville: Famous for its music scene, diverse job market, and young professional culture. It’s fast-growing and offers everything from nightlife to great healthcare.
• Knoxville: A college town with a charming downtown, Knoxville offers a mix of affordability, nature, and urban perks. It’s a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains.
• Chattanooga: Tech-friendly and scenic, Chattanooga is known for its outdoor activities and revitalized downtown. It’s also one of the first US cities with a gigabit internet network.
• Franklin: Great for families, Franklin boasts top schools, historic charm, and a strong sense of community. It’s one of the most affluent suburbs near Nashville.

Each of these cities brings something unique, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

9. Moving Tips

Planning ahead is crucial for a smooth move:

• Start Early: Begin planning at least two months in advance. This gives you time to declutter, compare movers, and schedule services without stress.
• Downsize: Take this opportunity to get rid of unused items. Selling or donating can reduce your load and moving costs.
• Label Everything: Clearly label all boxes with their contents and destination room. It makes unpacking in your new home far easier.
• Secure Important Documents: Keep birth certificates, medical records, and financial documents with you during the move.
• Notify Key Services: Don’t forget to change your address with USPS, update billing addresses, and notify banks, schools, and healthcare providers.