In the city of Bristol, locals can wake up in Virginia, walk down the street and enjoy breakfast and coffee in Tennessee. Developed in the 1850s, Bristol is one community divided into two cities, and State Street serves both as a state boundary and the lively center of activity, lined with boutiques, restaurants and pubs. “In a lot of small towns, you go home at 7 p.m. because there’s nothing to do, but here, whether you’re finding a good place to eat or local music or entertainment, there’s always something to do into the evening, every day of the week,” says Rebecca Arnold, Realtor with Prestige Homes of the Tri Cities and longtime resident of the Tennessee side. “It feels like a small town, but without the boredom.”
Much of the action revolves around music, an homage to the 1927 Bristol Sessions which saw the debut of the Carter Family and other pioneers in folk, country and blues. “We have a great entertainment area, and we’re the ‘Birthplace of Country Music.’ The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino opened in November of 2024, and it’s brought musical performances and well-paying jobs,” says Misty Clarke, Realtor with KW Bristol who has been selling properties for almost a decade. Clarke and Arnold also highlight Federal Pacific, Line Power and Bristol Compressors as major employers within the Tri-Cities, the metropolitan region which Bristol is a part of, along with the Tennessean cities of Johnson City and Kingsport.
Bristol, VA and Bristol, TN are divided by Main St, the main hub of activity in Bristol.
Signs of Bristol's country music history can be found throughout the city.
1/2
Two cities and a bevy of housing styles
The median price stands at about $215,000, which is nearly $200,000 below the national median. Home values have only been on the rise over the past few years. “There are not enough homes for the number of buyers, which has driven prices up some,” Clarke says. “They’re looking to increase housing in the area, and they’re building developments by Interstate 81 exits 1 and 7, including condos by exit 5.” On the other hand, buyers can also choose from a selection of builds from the 1920s and earlier. “Homes are being revitalized and brought back to life,” Clarke says. “We have a lot of beautiful historic homes closer to the downtown areas with Victorian, midcentury modern ranch-style homes and other architectural styles.” Other builds include Colonial Revivals and American Craftsman bungalows. Ranch-style and New Traditional homes sit closer to Bristol’s periphery.
As to whether buyers want to purchase north or south of the state line, Clarke emphasizes that there is a slew of factors to consider. “You can purchase more for your money in Bristol, Virginia than Bristol, Tennessee,” she says. “Tennessee property tax is a little higher, and the state’s sales tax is twice as high. But Tennessee doesn’t have a state income tax. From what I’ve been told from my clients, in regard to taxes, it’s kind of a wash.”
A Victorian home with a craftsman influence adds character to a Bristol neighborhood.
Mid-century ranch homes are common in various Bristol neighborhoods.
1/2
Shopping and dining on State Street
State Street is more than the dividing line between two Bristols and two states, it’s the twin cities’ shared downtown. On either side of the border, shoppers can stop by a mix of local restaurants, retailers and specialty stores. Residents can dine on Italian, Japanese and classic American fare, though most popular restaurants specialize in barbecue and Southern comfort food. The Burger Bar is a diner notable for being the last spot where country music singer Hank Williams was seen alive before his sudden death en route to Ohio.
Located on the eastern edge of Bristol at Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards, Hickory combines the professionalism of upscale dining with traditional flavors of the Appalachians, sourcing ingredients mostly from the establishment’s garden and neighboring farms. In 2024, chef Travis Milton was a James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef in the Mid-Atlantic.
Most of Bristol’s shopping plazas like Old Dominion Marketplace and Bristol Plaza Shopping Center cling close to Interstate 81, home to department stores, furniture stores and other businesses.
The Burger Bar in Bristol is the last place where Hank Williams was seen alive.
Find one of a kind local businesses in downtown Bristol.
1/2
Where country music was born
The Birthplace of Country Music Museum retells the story of the legendary 1927 Bristol Sessions – the “big bang of country music” when then-unknown talent like Jimmie Rodgers and the Carter Family recorded for the Victor Talking Machine Company. Beyond coming to check out artefacts and explore interactive exhibits, the museum organizes special events such as story times, music lessons and the Rhythm and Roots Reunion. This festival takes place for three days each September and carries on the legacy of the Bristol Sessions, attracting some 40,000 people for live music from the Appalachian Mountains and beyond.
But Bristolians love listening to music all times of the year. “Downtown, you’ll always find someone playing music, whether it’s an acoustic set at a bar or restaurant or some regional act performing at the Paramount,” Arnold says. Arnold also highlights the Carter Family Fold, a music venue along Virginia’s Crooked Road music heritage trail 30 miles east, which is near A.P. Carter’s childhood home and general store.
Discover the history of the "Bristol Sessions" at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.
Bristol is a hub for live music at theaters like the Paramount.
1/2
Bristol City Public Schools
The Bristol City Public Schools district receives an overall B from Niche and has around 2,200 students. Opened in August 2024, Virginia Intermediate School is, as Clarke puts it, a “state-of-the-art primary school” for students in grades two through five, a $25 million project. B-minus-rated Virginia High is the district’s high school and has a dedicated wing for career and technical education programs including building trades, cybernetics and horticulture. King University is private higher education institution affiliated with the Presbyterian Church across the border in Tennessee.
Virginia Middle School is part of the Bristol City Public School System.
King University students can participate in the schools athletics programs in Bristol.
1/2
Hiking trails and NASCAR races
The Bristol Parks and Recreation Department manages several green spaces around the city including Sugar Hollow Park. Athletes enjoy the park’s softball and soccer fields, while hikers trek 11 miles of trails leading through forests and wetlands. Across the border on the Tennessee side, Steele Creek Park invites residents to paddleboat on a lake or cool off at the splash pad. Clarke notes that several nationally ranked golf courses and country clubs are in the vicinity of Bristol. The invite-only Olde Farm features a multi-purpose lodge with views of the Appalachian countryside, while Clear Creek Golf Club offers an indoor golf simulator.
The Appalachian Mountains are a hotbed of activity, from the Virginia Creeper Trail 15 miles east in Abingdon to South Holston Lake, a 1,600-acre reservoir popular for water skiing, fishing and an Independence Day fireworks show.
Located 12 miles south, the Bristol Motor Speedway has a legendary reputation for its high-speed racetrack and hosts two NASCAR Cup Series races each year.
Sugar Hollow Park is a massive 400 acre park in Bristol for various outdoor activities.
Bristol Motor Speedway hosts various event throughout the year.
1/2
Getting around the Tri-Cities
Interstate 81 is a commuters’ corridor through the Appalachian Mountains. Roanoke is 145 miles east, while Knoxville, Tennessee is 115 miles south. Johnson City and Kingsport, the other two population centers of the Tri-Cities, are both approximately a 25-mile drive away in Tennessee. For longer journeys, locals can visit the Tri-Cities Regional Airport 22 miles southwest. Bristol Regional Medical Center, also on the Tennessee side, is within a 10-mile drive of most homes.
World-class healthcare can be found at the Bristol Regional Medical Center
in Bristol, TN.
Bristol residents can easily catch a flight from the regional TRI-Cities airport nearby.
1/2
Police outreach in Bristol
The FBI reports a 22% increase in violent crimes and a 45% increase in property crimes between 2023 and 2022. The Bristol Police Department engages in a community outreach, occasionally putting on “bicycle rodeos” for children where kids can be gifted donated bicycles and safety gear.
Bristol experiences four seasons, with warm, humid summers and mild winters. The city receives about 45 inches of rain per year, which is roughly 50% above the national average.
Written By
Alexander Breuhan
Photography Contributed By
Clayton Hurst
Video By
Adam Lapallo
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Lisa Lundberg,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Bristol, VA sell after 32 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Bristol, VA over the last 12 months is $226,950, down 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
OPEN HOUSE - SUNDAY - February 15,2026 (2-4) Your next chapter begins at 8856 Rich Valley Rd—a truly move-in ready home where thoughtful updates and peaceful mountain scenery come together to create a place that instantly feels like home. This beautifully updated split-foyer offers 3-4 bedrooms and 2 full baths, with renovations throughout including an updated kitchen, refreshed bathrooms, a new
This sapphire beauty will make you anything but blue!!! A truly special find — where space, character, and outdoor living come together beautifully. This 1952 cottage is rich with original charm, featuring timeless woodwork, a cozy fireplace with built-in shelving, and new flooring throughout. The home offers 3 bedrooms (with a potential 4th), a dedicated laundry space that is centrally located,
Come and See this completely remodeled brick home in the heart of Bristol! This well-maintained brick home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and a possible 4th bedroom in the newly remodeled walk-out basement. The updated kitchen boasts granite countertops and backsplash, a large marble island, and Whirlpool appliances which all convey. The primary suite includes a walk-in closet and a fully
The Virginian neighborhood is the premiere golf community in Bristol, VA. With a private 18-hole course designed by Tom Fazio, fitness center, swimming pool, tennis and pickle ball courts, miles of walking trails, and two on-site restaurants, this is gated community living at its best! Situated in the heart of The Virginian, Grandview lots provide sweeping views of the golf course and the rolling
Preston Glen, the newest addition to The Virginian, embraces our Appalachian Highlands roots and ties to the land with a farmhouse-style community. Located next to the Nicewonder Farm & Vineyard and backing up to Preston Spring, it's the idyllic place to build your home. Select from five farmhouse style building plans and enjoy the rolling hills of Virginia while also enjoying all of the
The Virginian neighborhood is the premiere golf community in Bristol, VA. With a private 18-hole course designed by Tom Fazio, fitness center, swimming pool, tennis and pickle ball courts, miles of walking trails, and two on-site restaurants, this is gated community living at its best! Situated in the heart of The Virginian, these lots provide views of the golf course and the rolling hills of
The Virginian neighborhood is the premiere golf community in Bristol, VA. With a private 18-hole course designed by Tom Fazio, fitness center, swimming pool, tennis and pickle ball courts, miles of walking trails, and two on-site restaurants, this is gated community living at its best! Situated in the heart of The Virginian, these lots provide views of the golf course and the rolling hills of
The Virginian neighborhood is the premiere golf community in Bristol, VA. With a private 18-hole course designed by Tom Fazio, fitness center, swimming pool, tennis and pickle ball courts, miles of walking trails, and two on-site restaurants, this is gated community living at its best! Situated in the heart of The Virginian, Grandview lots provide sweeping views of the golf course and the rolling
Beautiful wooded lot in the gated community of the Virginian. The Virginian is the premiere golf community in Bristol, VA. With a private 18-hole course designed by Tom Fazio, fitness center, swimming pool, tennis and pickle ball courts, miles of walking trails, and two on-site restaurants, this is gated community living at its best! Imagine your dream home here!! **ALL PROSPECTIVE BUYERS MUST BE
The Virginian neighborhood is the premiere golf community in Bristol, VA. With a private 18-hole course designed by Tom Fazio, fitness center, swimming pool, tennis and pickle ball courts, miles of walking trails, and two on-site restaurants, this is gated community living at its best! Situated in the heart of The Virginian, Grandview lots provide sweeping views of the golf course and the rolling
You will have to see it to believe it. This secluded, hidden gem is situated on a 1.2 acre lush, wooded lot. The street ends here and with only 3 other homes on the street you can imagine how peaceful it is.It has all the warmth and charm of yesteryear but has been updated with all the modern conveniences. Every detail creates a home that exudes sophistication, comfort, and superior
The Virginian neighborhood is the premiere golf community in Bristol, VA. With a private 18-hole course designed by Tom Fazio, fitness center, swimming pool, tennis and pickle ball courts, miles of walking trails, and two on-site restaurants, this is gated community living at its best! Situated in the heart of The Virginian, Grandview lots provide sweeping views of the golf course and the rolling
Preston Glen, the newest addition to The Virginian, embraces our Appalachian Highlands roots and ties to the land with a farmhouse-style community. Located next to the Nicewonder Farm & Vineyard and backing up to Preston Spring, it's the idyllic place to build your home. Select from five farmhouse style building plans and enjoy the rolling hills of Virginia while also enjoying all of the
The Virginian neighborhood is the premiere golf community in Bristol, VA. With a private 18-hole course designed by Tom Fazio, fitness center, swimming pool, tennis and pickle ball courts, miles of walking trails, and two on-site restaurants, this is gated community living at its best! Situated in the heart of The Virginian, Grandview lots provide sweeping views of the golf course and the rolling
Build Your Dream Home in a Prime Location! Lot 3.Discover the perfect opportunity to create your ideal home on this 0.28-acre building lot located within Bristol city limits! With city utilities available, building is made easy and convenient. This attractive homesite offers quick access to I-81 (Exit 5), putting shopping, dining, and entertainment just minutes away.Looking for more
Enjoy a fully furnished studio suite in our hotel at an affordable rate with free wi-fi, free utilities and free premium cable. Each studio suite has a full kitchen with full-size refrigerator, stovetop and microwave, and has a flexible workspace and plenty of storage. All our hotels are pet-friendly and have on-site guest laundry available. Plus, there are no long-term commitments and you can
2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo located conveniently in Bristol, VA.Updated appliances and laundry is included in the unit. Community pool and tennis courts are available for use. Condo is just a short drive to exit 5 of I-81 and within 4 minutes from a Tesla Supercharger. Convenient to downtown Bristol and surrounding attractions. Schedule your showing today. First Month's rent and $1075 security
William (Bill) LokarWeichert Realtors Saxon Clark KPT
Join us for a virtual tour of our unitsPhotos on the listing may not be the exact unit you will be renting, but has the same floor plan and similar characteristics. Some units are Blue, some have VCT flooring.Holston View is Located right off of Euclid Ave and Lee Highway in beautiful scenic downtown Bristol.Each unit has been fully remodeled within the last 4 years and
Looking for a fully furnished, luxury loft in Downtown Bristol? The Victor, where historic craftsmanship meets modern elegance in the heart of State Street, Bristol, Virginia. Ideally situated on the vibrant and up-and-coming 800 Block of State Street, this exceptional two-bedroom, two-bathroom loft offers the perfect blend of industrial history, architectural character, and refined comfort. Just
Welcome to the Victor, where life is easy and the possibilities are endless. Carefully designed, fully furnished options, professional. Your next chapter just turned a page. The Victor has fully furnished units available as well - professionally managed and maintained.Christina and Eric Blevins have been actively enhancing their hometown downtown for many years, including multiple
Looking for a fully furnished, luxury loft in Downtown Bristol? The Victor, where historic craftsmanship meets modern elegance in the heart of State Street, Bristol, Virginia. Perched on the third floor overlooking State Street, this beautiful executive two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment offers sweeping views of both the historic downtown and the distant Holston Mountain range. Located on the
Ask about our winter move in special, and all rent prices include brand new seamless fiber internet and Basic TV package!Brand New Townhomes: 2 BR, 2.5 BA Townhomes located less than one mile from the new Bristol Hard Rock Casino. The brand new modern 1152 sq. ft. Townhomes have an open concept with all new stainless-steel appliances, quartz countertops, and nice kitchen pantry. Also
Newly renovated 3BR/2BA home offering comfort and convenience on a flexible month-to-month basis. Ideally situated near State Street at the Virginia-Tennessee line and King University, this home provides practical, central living with small park just minutes away.The home includes one level, 3 bedrooms, 2 living areas, fully equipped kitchen, patio, smart TV, high-speed Wi-Fi, and
Property Id: 994902Recently refreshed with new paint, new LVP flooring, and new kitchen appliances! 2BR/2BA with open living space just off of Exit 5 in Bristol, VA. Close to The Falls Plaza and Exit 7 shopping/dining.*PLEASE NOTE: Pics are post-reno but before being cleaned. New pics coming soon!*PLEASE COMPLETE THE PRESCREENING QUESTIONS TO BE CONSIDERED. For those who
249 North Street #2 is a 2BR/2BA apartment available on a month-to-month rental basis. Located near the Hard Rock Casino, The Pinnacle shopping center, Bristol Regional Medical Center, and just a short drive from State Street, this home offers comfort and accessibility in a central Bristol location.The apartment features 2 Bedrooms with Queen Beds, 2 Full Baths, Fully Equipped Kitchen,
NEW FLOORING IS BEING INSTALLED IN THE AREAS THE FLOORING HAS BEEN REMOVED. (KITCHEN, DEN BATHS AND BEDROOM)3 BR, 2 Ba home for $1800 per month, $1800 deposit required. Application fee of $49.00 is due to a third party at the time the application is submitted. This fee is non-refundable.
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
