The allure of the Great Smoky Mountains, with their majestic peaks, lush forests, and abundance of outdoor adventures, is undeniable. Nestled in the heart of this natural wonderland in eastern Tennessee, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge emerge as top choices for those captivated by the charm of the Smokies and contemplating a move to this scenic region.
With its breathtaking scenery, vibrant entertainment options, and welcoming community, Gatlinburg offers a quintessential mountain town experience. Meanwhile, neighboring Pigeon Forge boasts a lively atmosphere, world-class attractions, and endless opportunities for family fun.
Whether you're drawn to the serene beauty of the mountains, the excitement of bustling downtowns, or the countless outdoor activities available year-round, the Smokies have something for everyone. In this guide, we'll explore the top reasons why living in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is an incredible choice for residents and newcomers alike!
Considering making the big move? In this blog, we'll explore the top 6 reasons why living in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is an incredible choice.
Let's dive right in!
1. You'll experience the appeal of mild climates and well-defined seasons.
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are blessed with a delightful subtropical climate that features four defined seasons throughout the year. Summers are warm and humid, while winters bring cold temperatures and regular snowfall. Autumn and spring offer mild weather, making them among the most beautiful and pleasant times to enjoy these mountain cities.
If you enjoy experiencing the uniqueness of each season, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are the perfect choice. Given their location in the Smoky Mountains, these cities offer the best setting, and every season brings a diverse selection of outdoor activities.
It's worth mentioning that every year you'll experience some of the most beautiful autumns in the country, with the landscape painted in vibrant warm colors.
2. You're encouraged to go green in the Smokies.
Sustainability is at the core of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge as communities, and that offers major advantages, especially if you're considering a move to the region with kids.
With the Great Smoky Mountains National Park just steps away from the cities, residents feel a deep sense of responsibility in protecting their most valuable asset — nature. Every passing year, the community becomes increasingly committed to going green and living sustainably, something reflected in the ways locals conduct business.
As an example of the local ethos, both cities boast great initiatives such as alternative fuel trolleys, and in Gatlinburg, holiday decorations are made of LED lights.
If you're already dedicated to reducing your carbon footprint or seeking a more sustainable lifestyle, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge will inspire you to make further eco-friendly choices.
The community's sustainable mindset is also great for kids: parents have an excellent opportunity to raise children who are more aware of nature. Schools in the region play a crucial role in educating environmentally responsible students. That's exactly what our planet needs, isn't it?
3. You immerse yourself in the small-town charm and relaxed pace of life.
Gatlinburg has a population of less than 4,000 people, and Pigeon Forge has less than 7,000. Both cities feel like local communities that are friendly, welcoming, and supportive.
As soon as you move to one of these two Smoky gems, the chances of being included in the community are high, and the social environment is dynamic and inviting.
Living in small cities like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge also means less traffic, reduced commute time, larger home sizes, and a slower pace of life. Overall, it all leads to an enhanced quality of life!
The small-town feel you'll find in both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, as well as other cities in the area like Sevierville and Cosby, will allow you to live a slower life, with more access to open spaces, and stronger community connections. Sounds like heaven, doesn't it?
4. The Great Smoky Mountains will become your backyard.
There's one main reason why so many people are drawn to these parts, and that reason is the Great Smoky Mountains. This mountain range offers endless opportunities for outdoor fun and nature exploration, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is considered one of the top national parks in the United States.
Now, imagine having access to all this natural beauty year-round...
To residents, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a source of both pride and entertainment. Some popular activities you can enjoy with the entire family include hiking, fishing, cycling, horseback riding, rafting, and various winter sports.
Moreover, with more than a hundred species of birds, birdwatching is also an amazing way to experience the stunning surroundings. A simple stroll through nature gives you the chance to see the exuberant wildflowers, wildlife, and majestic waterfalls.
Honestly? For those looking to live in a place with full access to the outdoors, there's nothing like living in the Smokies. It will certainly provide you with a more active and ecologically focused lifestyle since some of the most dazzling landscapes in the US will be just steps away from you.
5. You'll find plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options as well.
The fact that Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge boast a slow pace of life doesn't mean they lack entertainment. Quite the opposite -- these two cities combined offer top-notch entertainment catered to people of all ages.
Beyond all the outdoor activities at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, shopping and dining opportunities promise lots of fun in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Shopaholics will find unique goods and experiences at places like The Village, Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community, Mountain Mall, The Old Mill Square, and The Mountain Mile & Tower Shops. Food enthusiasts will also have a blast with the diversity of superb restaurants in the area, some offering stellar Appalachian cuisine.
Family fun is also covered by unique attractions and venues like the magical Dollywood, Hollywood Wax Museum, The Island, Pigeon Forge Snow, Ober Mountain Ski Area & Amusement Park, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, Wild Bear Falls Water Park, and Anakeesta. The latter is the perfect blend of outdoor activities, dining, and shopping for the whole family to enjoy.
6. The cost of living is very attractive.
One of the most important factors when you're planning to relocate to a different city is the cost of living. Finding more affordable places to live, especially more affordable housing opportunities has been a challenge in modern-day life.
It's great news though that the cost of living in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is lower than the national average. The overall average of housing expenses, utilities, groceries, transportation, healthcare, and entertainment in these cities is also lower than most cities in the state of Tennessee.
There's another factor that appears appealing to people considering moving to Tennessee, and it's related to another cost — taxes. There is no state income tax in Tennessee, allowing residents to keep more of their income. This can be especially beneficial for those working remotely or living off investments.
What's It Like Living in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge Year-Round?
Living in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge year-round certainly sounds appealing. But don't pack your bags yet; there's more to it. Relocating to a new city is a significant decision that demands careful thought, research, and consideration.
If you find yourself at a point in life where you're contemplating a move, here are some tips to make the process smoother:
Research is crucial: always check important aspects such as the cost of living, job and career opportunities, the educational system, healthcare, security, as well as entertainment options, and the culture and lifestyle of the city. Look for official sources, talk to residents, and even reach out to institutions. Taking an active approach is always better for you to get a good feel for the place and what it offers.
Set a budget: the act of making a move in itself can be costly. So, set a budget and list the costs of adopting a new lifestyle. Make sure you can move without greatly sacrificing your finances in the process. This will make everything more pleasant and less stressful.
Reach out to locals: through social media groups and forums, you can connect with residents of a certain city and get valuable information from them. It's also a great way to build a social network even before you move to your new home. Additionally, reaching out to people who have already made a move there from somewhere else could be beneficial since they can provide great insight on how to do it yourself.
Leave behind unnecessary things: what better excuse to declutter? Before moving, get rid of things that are no longer useful in your new life. Pack only what is necessary since you also have to consider the costs involved in moving your belongings.
Be emotionally prepared: despite being certain about the move, be prepared for a period of adaptation where homesickness and minor difficulties can arise. It's important to embrace them as part of the process and keep an open mind.
Visit the city before deciding to move: spending some time in the city you're considering moving to is a great idea as there's no better way to experience the lifestyle, get to know its amenities, and transportation system, and get acquainted with the general feel of being there. It's also a great opportunity to visit different neighborhoods and check if there's something that aligns with your needs and preferences.
In Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and around, you can check out our lovely rentals. We've got you covered with the housing part for your visit.
For more tips and recommendations on what to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, head to our destination blog. We've written about everything from the best restaurants in the region and the best breakfast spots in the area to a full guide to fishing and much more.
Need a taste of what life's like in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and The Smoky Mountains before making a decision?
Why not enhance your stay with the stunning backdrop of the Smoky Mountains in a great rental property?
At Stony Brook, we offer an exceptional array of cabins and chalets in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Cosby, ranging from one to 16 bedrooms. As a family-owned service, we guarantee you'll have the best experience in the Smokies!