moving from California to Tennessee By Jessica Simpson, Principal Agent & Team Leader, Moving Nashville Homes Team at Compass — Relocation & Middle Tennessee Real Estate Specialist November 24, 2025
More Californians are relocating to Tennessee than ever before—and Nashville sits at the top of the list. Whether you're seeking affordability, lower taxes, more land, or a business-friendly environment, Middle Tennessee delivers a dramatic lifestyle upgrade.
This comprehensive guide is designed to help California families, remote workers, and investors understand life in Nashville and find the perfect place to call home.
California median home price: $830,000
Nashville median home price: $450,000–$550,000
Murfreesboro: $380,000–$500,000
You immediately gain access to:
Larger homes
Safer communities
Newer construction
Actual backyard space
Optional HOA amenities
Tennessee advantage:
No state income tax
Lower closing costs
Business-friendly regulations
California property tax & income tax savings alone can be $10,000–$40,000 per year.
Luxury homes, high-end amenities, top schools.
Upscale, quiet, large estates, excellent schools.
One of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S.
Popular communities include:
Shelton Square
Hidden River
Mirabella
Three Rivers
New construction, small-town charm, strong schools.
Lake life, beautiful neighborhoods, minutes from Nashville.
Tennessee is home to major companies:
Amazon
Nissan
Oracle
HCA
Vanderbilt
Google (data centers)
Low taxes + fast growth = opportunities for professionals and entrepreneurs.
Friendly people
Low traffic
Low crime compared to major CA metros
Beautiful four-season weather
Outdoor recreation (lakes, hiking, boating)
Live music & entertainment year-round
Top-performing districts:
Williamson County
Rutherford County
Wilson County
High-ranking public schools, charter options, and private academies make Tennessee appealing to families relocating from CA’s dense school districts.
Homes move fast—pre-approval is essential
Many communities offer new construction
Builder incentives may lower your rate or closing costs
Remote tours are available
Investment rental opportunities are strong
Ready to begin your move from California to Nashville or Middle Tennessee?
Click here to get your full California Relocation Guide:
Relocation Guide
Market updates, design trends, and lifestyle tips from your local luxury experts.
Choosing the right neighborhood Tennessee
A step-by-step guide to help buyers identify the community that aligns with their lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals in Middle Tennessee.
New Construction
A clear comparison to help today’s buyers choose the home option that best aligns with their lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals.
Middle Tennessee cost of living
A breakdown of housing, lifestyle expenses, taxes, and overall affordability for those considering a move to the region.
New Construction
Expert guidance, trusted builder relationships, and a seamless process for designing your dream home in Middle Tennessee.
Middle Tennessee relocation
A comprehensive guide to relocating to one of the fastest-growing and most welcoming regions in the country.
Experience personalized service, market expertise, and unmatched results.