Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bristol, TN
Thinking of moving to Bristol, TN? With a friendly population of 27,230 and affordable living—median home prices around $185,000 and average 2-bedroom rents at $870—Bristol offers a relaxed lifestyle in a scenic setting. Average commutes are just 19 minutes, and residents enjoy 58% sunny days a year. While property crime is above average, the city is home to solid schools, a major hospital, and easy access to outdoor recreation, making it a welcoming spot for families and newcomers alike.
Demographics - Bristol, TN
Demographics - Bristol, TN
Bristol, Tennessee is home to about 27,230 residents, with a population density of 1,230 per square mile and a median age of 43, reflecting a slightly older community. The city is predominantly White at 92%, and around 3.6% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The gender balance is fairly even, making Bristol a friendly and diverse small city.
Population:
27,230
Density:
1,230 per sq mi
Median Age:
43.2
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.6%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.0%
Black:
3.4%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
4.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bristol, TN?
Bristol boasts an affordable cost of living, with median home values around $185,000 and average rents at $870, making it budget-friendly for both homeowners and renters. Utilities and groceries are also priced below the national average, and Tennessee’s low state taxes help stretch your dollar further. Overall, Bristol’s cost of living index is significantly lower than many U.S. cities, making it an attractive choice for those seeking value.
Median House Value:
$185,000
Gross Rent:
$870
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
2%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.4
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
61.7
Utilities:
97.8
Transportation:
88.5
Health Care:
93.3
Miscellaneous:
96.0
Crime
Is Bristol, TN a safe place to live?
Crime in Bristol is higher than average, with a property crime rate of 2,740 per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 36 chance of being affected. Violent crime is less common but still present, with a 1 in 258 chance and a rate of 387 per 100,000 people. Prospective residents should consider these factors when planning to move, especially when choosing neighborhoods.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
387
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,740
Crime Index:
3,127
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 258
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 36
Weather
What is the weather like in Bristol, TN year-round?
Bristol enjoys four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging lows around 27°F and warm summers reaching highs near 86°F. The city receives about 43 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine 58% of the year, making it ideal for those who appreciate both seasonal variety and outdoor activities. Spring and fall bring comfortable temperatures perfect for enjoying the scenic surroundings.
Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
47°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
71°F
Summer
Min:
64°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
Residents of Bristol enjoy a median household income of $47,100, with a family income averaging $61,500 and a per capita income of $27,000. The area has a poverty rate of 16.7% and an unemployment rate of 4.1%, with most people commuting about 19 minutes to work. The community is largely English-speaking, and the majority have at least a high school diploma, fostering a welcoming and stable local atmosphere.
Median Income:
$30,800
Household Income:
$47,100
Family Income:
$61,500
Per Capita Income:
$27,000
Income Male:
$39,500
Income Female:
$31,600
Poverty Rate:
16.7%
Non English Speakers:
3.6%
Rent:
$870
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
19.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.5%
Bachelors or More:
21.3%
Education
How are the schools in Bristol, TN?
Bristol offers a range of educational opportunities, including well-rated public schools like Tennessee High School and Avoca Elementary, which maintain student-teacher ratios around 15:1. The city is also home to King University and is close to Northeast State Community College, providing higher education options locally. Private schools and varied programs ensure families have choices for quality education.
Public Schools
Name:
Tennessee High School
Street:
1112 Edgemont Ave
Phone:
423-652-9494
Students:
1,080
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Name:
Avoca Elementary School
Street:
2440 Volunteer Pkwy
Phone:
423-652-9444
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.9
Private Schools
Name:
Sullins Academy
Street:
22218 Sullins Academy Dr
Phone:
276-669-4101
Students:
300
Colleges
Name:
King University
City:
Bristol
State:
TN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,850
Name:
Northeast State Community College
City:
Blountville
State:
TN
Distance:
14 miles
Students:
5,500
Healthcare
Bristol is served by the Bristol Regional Medical Center, offering comprehensive general and emergency care to residents. With 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 90% of locals covered by health insurance, access to healthcare is reliable. The city’s healthcare index reflects solid medical resources for a community of its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Bristol Regional Medical Center
Address:
1 Medical Park Blvd, Bristol, TN 37620
Phone:
(423) 844-1121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.7%
Health Care Index:
67.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bristol, TN?
The housing market in Bristol is accessible, with a median home price of $185,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $870. About 63% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area sees steady home appreciation and low foreclosure rates. Rental vacancies are moderate, making it relatively easy to find both rental and purchase options.
Median Home Price:
$185,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$870
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.9%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
DMV services in Bristol are managed by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, conveniently located on Highway 11E. Residents can access licensing, registration, and related services both in person and online. The department is known for clear processes and helpful staff.
State:
Tennessee
Department:
Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security
Address:
109 Highway 11E, Suite 3, Bristol, TN 37620
Phone:
1-866-849-3548
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.