Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Johnson City, TN
Thinking of moving to Johnson City, TN? With a population of about 71,000, this vibrant city offers affordable living—median home prices are around $241,000 and average rents just over $1,000. Residents enjoy short commutes averaging 18 minutes, a mild climate with 60% sunny days, and access to respected schools and healthcare. While the cost of living is well below the national average, Johnson City’s community vibe, proximity to East Tennessee State University, and scenic mountain surroundings make it a great choice for families, students, and professionals alike.
Demographics - Johnson City, TN
Demographics - Johnson City, TN
Johnson City is home to about 71,000 residents, with a median age of 36.2, and a majority white population alongside a growing mix of other ethnicities. The city’s population density of 1,350 people per square mile provides a comfortable urban setting, and a small but notable percentage of residents speak languages other than English.
Population:
71,046
Density:
1,350 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.2
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
84.7%
Black:
6.2%
Asian:
2.2%
Others:
6.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Johnson City, TN?
Johnson City offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $241,000 and an average rent of $1,065. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious families and professionals.
Median House Value:
$241,000
Gross Rent:
$1,065
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$126
Auto Insurance:
$1,125
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,230
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.2
Grocery:
94.1
Housing:
74.2
Utilities:
92.4
Transportation:
87.8
Health Care:
88.5
Miscellaneous:
90.2
Crime
Is Johnson City, TN a safe place to live?
Residents of Johnson City experience a moderate crime rate, with the chance of property crime at about 1 in 34 and violent crime at 1 in 303. While property crime occurs more frequently than violent offenses, many neighborhoods remain peaceful and suitable for families.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
330
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,980
Crime Index:
3,310
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 303
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 34
Weather
What is the weather like in Johnson City, TN year-round?
The city enjoys four mild seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 85°F and winters rarely dipping below 27°F. Pleasant weather is complemented by around 60% sunny days and an annual rainfall of just over 42 inches, making outdoor activities popular year-round.

Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
46°F

Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
71°F

Summer
Min:
64°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Johnson City households typically earn a median income of $48,500, with a poverty rate of 17.2% and an average commute of just over 18 minutes. Most residents have completed high school, and a significant portion hold bachelor’s degrees or higher, contributing to a well-educated community.
Median Income:
$30,800
Household Income:
$48,500
Family Income:
$63,400
Per Capita Income:
$28,700
Income Male:
$42,900
Income Female:
$36,100
Poverty Rate:
17.2%
Non English Speakers:
6.0%
Rent:
$1,065
Unemployment Rate:
3.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
18.1 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.5%
Bachelors or More:
36.8%
Education
How are the schools in Johnson City, TN?
Education is a community priority, highlighted by reputable public schools such as Science Hill High School and the presence of East Tennessee State University. Families benefit from a variety of public and private school options, as well as easy access to higher education institutions.

Public Schools
Name:
Science Hill High School
Street:
1509 John Exum Pkwy
Phone:
423-232-2190
Students:
2,300
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Name:
Indian Trail Intermediate School
Street:
307 Car Mol Dr
Phone:
423-610-6000
Students:
1,030
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7

Private Schools
Name:
Ashley Academy
Street:
1502 Knob Creek Rd
Phone:
423-929-7888
Students:
200

Colleges
Name:
East Tennessee State University
City:
Johnson City
State:
TN
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
13,500
Name:
Northeast State Community College
City:
Blountville
State:
TN
Distance:
21 miles
Students:
5,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in Johnson City is robust, anchored by major hospitals like Johnson City Medical Center and Franklin Woods Community Hospital. With 2.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 90% health insurance coverage, locals have reliable access to quality medical care.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Johnson City Medical Center
Address:
400 N State of Franklin Rd, Johnson City, TN 37604
Phone:
(423) 431-6111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Franklin Woods Community Hospital
Address:
300 MedTech Pkwy, Johnson City, TN 37604
Phone:
(423) 302-1100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.5%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Johnson City, TN?
The local housing market is accessible, with median home prices at $241,000 and rents for a two-bedroom averaging $1,065. Home values have appreciated by over 6% in the past year, and more than half of residents own their homes, reflecting a stable and growing market.
Median Home Price:
$241,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,065
Owner Occupied Rate:
53.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Johnson City’s DMV services are provided by the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security at a convenient local office. Residents can access licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in-person and online.
State:
Tennessee
Department:
Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security
Address:
3769 Bristol Hwy, Johnson City, TN 37601
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.