East Knoxville Counties
Your Go-To Guide for Homebuyers
Thinking of buying a home in the vibrant East Knoxville counties? Our homebuyers guide is packed with valuable county info, real estate trends, and top neighborhood highlights to help you find the ideal place to call home. From great schools to outdoor adventures, East Knoxville offers something for everyone.
Each county has its own unique vibe, and this guide will walk you through the best features of each, from property taxes to commute times and everything in between. Let’s dive in and discover why East Knoxville is the perfect place to find your next dream home!
1. Jefferson County: A Blend of Rural and Scenic Living
Population: Approx. 58,000
Lifestyle: Rural to Suburban, Mountain Views and Water Access
Commute Times: 30-45 minutes to Knoxville
Property Tax Rate: 2.5% of assessed value
Why Buy a Home in Jefferson County?
Jefferson County offers a beautiful mix of rural landscapes, mountain views, and easy access to lakes and rivers. With communities like Dandridge and Jefferson City, this area offers the perfect balance between peaceful, nature-filled living and proximity to Knoxville. The county has an abundance of outdoor activities, including lakefront properties and hiking trails, making it an ideal location for nature lovers.
Key Cities and Neighborhoods
- Dandridge: Known as the “Gateway to the Smokies,” this charming town offers lakeside living and easy access to I-40. Learn more about Dandridge
- Jefferson City: A growing city with a mix of residential neighborhoods and local businesses. Learn more about Jefferson City
- Mascot: A quiet rural area located close to the Smoky Mountains and ideal for those seeking a peaceful, countryside lifestyle.
- Strawberry Plains: A quiet, scenic area offering a rural feel but close to all the conveniences of Jefferson City and Knoxville.
Practical Info
- Property Taxes: Jefferson County has a property tax rate of about 2.5%.
- Utilities:
- Water: Jefferson County Utility District
- Electricity: Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
- Gas: Jefferson County Gas
- Trash: Waste Connections of Tennessee
- Internet: AT&T | Xfinity
Fun Things to Do
- Outdoor Fun: Enjoy activities like boating, fishing, and camping on Douglas Lake or hike in the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Local Events: Jefferson County hosts local events like the Jefferson County Fair and Dandridge Christmas Parade.
Healthcare & Job Opportunities
- Healthcare: Jefferson Memorial Hospital provides healthcare services in the area.
- Job Opportunities: Jefferson County’s economy is driven by manufacturing, healthcare, and retail, with a growing number of local businesses. Learn more at Jefferson County Economic Development.
Public Transportation
Jefferson County has limited public transportation, so residents typically rely on personal vehicles for commuting. However, Knoxville’s public services are accessible within 30-45 minutes for broader transportation options.
2.Sevier County: The Heart of the Smokies
Population: Approx. 98,000
Lifestyle: Suburban to Rural, Mountain Views and Tourism Hub
Commute Times: 45-55 minutes to Knoxville
Property Tax Rate: 2.3% of assessed value
Why Buy a Home in Sevier County?
Sevier County is home to the Smoky Mountains and offers an exceptional mix of tourism and scenic rural living. Known for its tourism-driven economy, the area provides endless outdoor recreation options, from hiking in the Smoky Mountains to enjoying the local attractions in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Whether you want a mountain retreat or to live near local attractions, Sevier County provides the best of both worlds.
Key Cities and Neighborhoods
- Sevierville: The county seat, offering a mix of urban and rural living with easy access to outdoor adventures. Learn more at Sevierville
- Pigeon Forge: A popular tourist destination known for its entertainment and attractions.
- Gatlinburg: A mountain town known for its scenic views, arts and crafts community, and proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Seymour: A growing suburban area offering quiet country living with easy access to Sevierville and Knoxville.
Practical Info
- Property Taxes: Sevier County has a property tax rate of about 2.3%.
- Utilities:
- Water: Sevier County Utility District
- Electricity: Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
- Gas: Sevier County Gas
- Trash: Waste Connections of Tennessee
- Internet: AT&T | Xfinity
Fun Things to Do
- Outdoor Fun: Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
- Local Events: The annual Sevier County Fair and Pigeon Forge Winterfest are some of the county’s key attractions.
Healthcare & Job Opportunities
- Healthcare: Sevier County Community Hospital provides healthcare services in the area.
- Job Opportunities: Sevier County’s economy is driven by tourism, but there are also opportunities in retail, healthcare, and education. Learn more at Sevier County Economic Development.
Public Transportation
Sevier County has limited public transportation, but residents often commute to Knoxville for more comprehensive services.
3. Cocke County: Gateway to the Smokies and Rural Retreats
Population: Approx. 35,000
Lifestyle: Rural, Mountain Views, and Water Access
Commute Times: 45-50 minutes to Knoxville
Property Tax Rate: 2.5% of assessed value
Why Buy a Home in Cocke County?
Cocke County is a hidden gem for those seeking a rural lifestyle with easy access to the Smoky Mountains. The area is known for its mountain views, outdoor recreation, and affordable real estate prices, making it a great choice for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Key Cities and Neighborhoods
- Newport: The county seat, offering a mix of mountain views, historic charm, and proximity to outdoor activities. Learn more at Newport
- Cosby: A small rural town nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, offering a peaceful lifestyle.
Practical Info
- Property Taxes: Cocke County has a property tax rate of about 2.5%.
- Utilities:
- Water: Cocke County Utility District
- Electricity: Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
- Gas: Cocke County Gas
- Trash: Waste Connections of Tennessee
- Internet: AT&T | Xfinity
Fun Things to Do
- Outdoor Fun: Explore the Great Smoky Mountains for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
- Local Events: Cocke County Fair and Newport’s Annual Christmas Parade.
Healthcare & Job Opportunities
- Healthcare: Cocke County Memorial Hospital provides healthcare services in the area.
- Job Opportunities: Cocke County offers job opportunities in tourism, manufacturing, and healthcare. Learn more at Cocke County Economic Development.
Public Transportation
Cocke County offers limited public transportation services, and many residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting.
4.Grainger County: Quiet Rural Living with Access to Major Cities
Population: Approx. 24,000
Lifestyle: Rural, Lakeside Living, and Farm Life
Commute Times: 45-50 minutes to Knoxville
Property Tax Rate: 2.4% of assessed value
Why Buy a Home in Grainger County?
Grainger County is the ideal location for those seeking peaceful, rural living with proximity to Knoxville. The county is known for its lakefront properties, farms, and small-town charm, making it the perfect choice for those wanting a slower pace of life, yet still within a reasonable commute to Knoxville and surrounding areas.
Key Cities and Neighborhoods
- Bean Station: A small lakefront town with an excellent community feel. Learn more at Bean Station
- Rutledge: A charming rural town offering easy access to Douglas Lake and a quiet lifestyle.
- Blaine: A peaceful rural community offering easy access to Knoxville and surrounding areas.
- Lakefront Properties: Grainger County has some of the most sought-after lakefront homes in East Tennessee.
Practical Info
- Property Taxes: Grainger County has a property tax rate of about 2.4%.
- Utilities:
- Water: Grainger County Utility District
- Electricity: Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
- Gas: Grainger County Gas
- Trash: Waste Connections of Tennessee
- Internet: AT&T | Xfinity
Fun Things to Do
- Outdoor Fun: Douglas Lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports.
- Local Events: Grainger County Fair and seasonal farmers’ markets.
Healthcare & Job Opportunities
- Healthcare: Grainger County Medical Center provides healthcare services in the area. Learn more at Grainger County Medical Center
- Job Opportunities: Grainger County’s economy is driven by agriculture, tourism, and local businesses. Learn more at Grainger County Economic Development.
Public Transportation
Grainger County has limited public transportation, and most residents rely on personal vehicles to get around.
Find Your Perfect Home in East Knoxville!
No matter what type of home you’re looking for, East Knoxville counties offer something for everyone. With their scenic beauty, small-town charm, easy access to Knoxville, and affordable living, these areas are becoming top choices for homebuyers. Whether you’re drawn to the mountain views in Sevier County, the peaceful lakefront properties in Grainger County, or the growing suburban communities in Jefferson County, you’ll find the perfect place to call home.Ready to start your home-buying journey? Don’t hesitate to reach out and let us guide you every step of the way. With our local expertise, we’ll help you find the best property that suits your needs. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or relocating to the area, East Knoxville has the ideal community waiting for you!