Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kingsport, TN
Considering a move to Kingsport, TN? With a population of just over 56,000, Kingsport offers affordable living, with median home prices around $175,000 and average rents under $900. Commute times are short at about 21 minutes, and the area enjoys a mild climate with 57% sunny days per year. While crime rates are higher than the national average, the city is known for friendly neighborhoods, convenient healthcare, and access to strong local schools like Dobyns-Bennett High. Explore Kingsport’s blend of small-town charm and Appalachian scenery for your next home.
Demographics - Kingsport, TN
Demographics - Kingsport, TN
Kingsport is home to about 56,000 residents, with a predominantly White population and a median age of 44.8, reflecting a mature and stable community. The city features a moderate population density and a slight majority of females, while roughly 6% of locals speak a language other than English. This demographic blend creates a welcoming environment with a touch of cultural diversity.
Population:
56,187
Density:
1,180 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.8
Gender Ratio:
90 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
89.3%
Black:
4.3%
Asian:
1.3%
Others:
5.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Kingsport, TN?
Living in Kingsport is very affordable compared to many U.S. cities, with a median home value of $175,000 and average rent around $890 per month. The cost of living index is significantly below the national average, especially in housing, making it an attractive option for budget-minded residents. Low state taxes and reasonable utility costs further boost its appeal.
Median House Value:
$175,000
Gross Rent:
$890
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$118
Auto Insurance:
$1,170
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,210
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
2% (interest/dividends only)
Cost Of Living Index:
81.2
Grocery:
93.5
Housing:
62.3
Utilities:
92.1
Transportation:
84.2
Health Care:
89.6
Miscellaneous:
94.8
Crime
Is Kingsport, TN a safe place to live?
Kingsport experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with about 349 violent crimes and 2,589 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. While the chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 286, most neighborhoods remain friendly and safe with normal precautions. Awareness and community engagement help maintain a sense of security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
349
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,589
Crime Index:
2,938
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 286
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 39
Weather
What is the weather like in Kingsport, TN year-round?
Kingsport enjoys a mild four-season climate, with summer highs reaching the upper 80s and winter lows dipping to the high 20s. The area sees an average of 43 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine about 57% of the year. This weather supports outdoor activities throughout much of the year.

Winter
Min:
28°F
Max:
47°F

Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
71°F

Summer
Min:
64°F
Max:
87°F

Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Kingsport's residents have a median household income of roughly $48,000, and about 16.8% live below the poverty line. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute is just over 21 minutes, reflecting the city's manageable size and friendly atmosphere. The community is close-knit, with low public transit use and affordable average rents.
Median Income:
$30,600
Household Income:
$48,290
Family Income:
$61,100
Per Capita Income:
$28,900
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$30,800
Poverty Rate:
16.8%
Non English Speakers:
6.2%
Rent:
$890
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
21.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
88.7%
Bachelors or More:
22.5%
Education
How are the schools in Kingsport, TN?
Kingsport's education system includes well-regarded public schools like Dobyns-Bennett High School and John Sevier Middle School, as well as private options such as St. Dominic School. Higher education opportunities are available nearby at Northeast State Community College and East Tennessee State University. The city prioritizes educational access and quality for students of all ages.

Public Schools
Name:
Dobyns-Bennett High School
Street:
1800 Legion Dr
Phone:
423-378-8400
Students:
2,400
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.1
Name:
John Sevier Middle School
Street:
1200 Wateree St
Phone:
423-378-2450
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2

Private Schools
Name:
St. Dominic School
Street:
1474 E Center St
Phone:
423-245-8491
Students:
190

Colleges
Name:
Northeast State Community College
City:
Blountville
State:
TN
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
6,000
Name:
East Tennessee State University
City:
Johnson City
State:
TN
Distance:
23 miles
Students:
13,500
Healthcare
Kingsport offers quality healthcare with two major hospitals—Holston Valley Medical Center and Indian Path Community Hospital—providing comprehensive and emergency services. The city maintains a solid physician-to-population ratio and nearly 89% of residents have health insurance. Access to care is both convenient and reliable for families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Holston Valley Medical Center
Address:
130 W Ravine Rd, Kingsport, TN 37660
Phone:
(423) 224-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Indian Path Community Hospital
Address:
2000 Brookside Dr, Kingsport, TN 37660
Phone:
(423) 857-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.9%
Health Care Index:
69.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Kingsport, TN?
The housing market in Kingsport is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $175,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $890. Over 60% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has seen home values appreciate by over 6% in the past year. Housing options suit a range of budgets, making it easy for newcomers to find a place to call home.
Median Home Price:
$175,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$890
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Kingsport residents are served by the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security, with the nearest office located in Knoxville. Services such as driver's licenses and vehicle registrations are accessible both in person and online. The DMV provides essential resources and support for new and current drivers.
State:
Tennessee
Department:
Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security
Address:
11408 Municipal Center Dr, Knoxville, TN 37922
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.