$206,471Average Value$158Average Price per Sq Ft82Homes For Sale
The Model City
The sight of radio towers looming above Bays Mountain, the four high-rising steeples of downtown’s Church Circle and the eye-popping Pal’s fast food chain with comically large burger and hot dog statues are just a few things that give Kingsport its identity. In the Appalachian foothills, just below the Virginia-Tennessee state line, Kingsport is a mid-size mountain community of more than 56,000 residents with tons of outdoor adventures and a growing downtown scene. “A lot of folks are looking to right-size their life,” says Jeff Fleming, former city manager of Kingsport and current relocation manager of the city’s “Move to Kingsport” initiative. “You get to cities with 100,000, and it starts getting crowded. When you get down to 25,000, there just isn’t much to do. So, we’re right in the sweet spot. We’re kind of like Goldilocks. We’re not too hot, not too cold. We’re just right.” Though the area of Kingsport was settled in 1761 by the Holston River, it earned the nickname “Model City” in 1917 when it was rechartered as a garden city, one of the first of its kind in the 20th century, dedicating sections of the city to homes, recreation, churches and business. Soon after, in 1920, Eastman Chemical Company opened and continues to be the bread and butter of the city and Northeast Tennessee, employing about 7,000 workers, approximately 12% of Kingsport’s population. On top of a highly rated school system, the city’s cost of living, which is 17% lower than the national average, is a significant draw for homebuyers and those seeking to avoid state income tax. Locals also enjoy sharing the Tri-Cities region with Bristol and Johnson City, both 25 miles away.
Kingsport offers a mild climate where residents experience all four seasons.
The median home price in Kingsport is $264,000.
Kingsport is a mid-size mountain community of more than 56,000 residents.
Residents of Kingsport flock to Cornucopia, the go-to spot for fresh popcorn.
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From historic to modern houses in a mild climate
The median home price in Kingsport is $264,000, compared to the national average of $416,700. Single-family homes are predominant throughout the city’s 27 distinct neighborhoods, making up 82% of sales from November 2023 to November 2024. The city’s oldest homes, dating between the late 1800s and 1920s can be found downtown and in its surrounding neighborhoods. They include some of Kingsport’s most iconic houses in Midtown on Watauga Street, where they sit atop a hill with views of the city and Bays Mountain. “You’re lucky to get on Watauga for less than $500,000,” says Graham Witherspoon, a Kingsport native and local real estate agent with True North Real Estate Advisors. “This is where a lot of your doctors and Eastman executives live.” Most neighborhoods, however, feature mid-century homes with prices closer to the city’s median. Homebuyers can find these houses on Bloomingdale’s steep foothill streets, the flatter terrain of Borden Village and in the desirable suburban environment of Colonial Heights. Newer developments have also been popping up in Colonial Heights over the past few years and in other neighborhoods on the city’s outskirts, such as Allandale and Rock Springs.
Kingsport offers a mild climate where residents experience all four seasons, with regularly occurring freezing temperatures in winter and occasional cool snaps breaking the summer's normal heat. “We get fake fall in the middle of summer,” says Sara Nowell, the city’s communications coordinator. “It’ll be cool one week, especially in the morning; then we’ll be back in the 80s.”
Homes in Lynn Garden overlook the quaint town.
A historic home in one of Kingsport's neighborhoods.
Single-family homes are predominant throughout Kingsport.
Kingsport's cost of living is 17% lower than the national average.
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A city for nature lovers and racecar fans
The city’s natural scenery in the Appalachian foothills allows locals to enjoy the outdoors in more ways than one. Kingsport maintains more than 100 miles of trails and nearly 40 parks and recreational hubs. Two of the most prominent destinations are Warriors’ Path State Park and Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium - the largest city-owned state park in Tennessee. Along with National Recreational Trails, Warriors’ Path offers a plethora of activities, including a massive Narnia-themed playground, kayak rentals in the Patrick Henry Reservoir and a public golf course. At Bays Mountain, visitors can hike to gorgeous mountain overlooks, visit wolves and other animals at the nature center, watch shows about the night sky at the planetarium or see the stars and planets for themselves in the observatory. Those who want to explore the city by foot or bike can hit the Greenbelt, which runs through neighborhood parks, downtown and along the Holston River, with designated selfie spots along the path.
Kingsport maintains more than 100 miles of trails and nearly 40 parks and recreational hubs.
Greenbelt trails along the Appalachian foothills allows locals to enjoy the outdoors.
Bays Mountain Park is a 3,750 acres nature park and planetarium located in Kingsport.
Kingsport is home to some of Tennessee's largest city-owned state parks.
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Christmas in Kingsport at Church Circle and other community events
With Kingsport in the Bible Belt, churches of Christian denominations can be found all over the city and are a significant part of the culture. Church bells have been ringing downtown since 1919 at a historic roundabout known as Church Circle, home to four large, brick church buildings with impressive steeples. They include First Baptist Church, First Presbyterian Church, First Broad Street United Methodist Church and the former First Methodist Episcopal Church, which First Broad Street UMC now owns. A permanent Christmas tree stands at the center of the roundabout. Every year, locals come together at Church Circle in late November for Christmas in Kingsport. It starts with a parade during the day and caps off at night with a tree-lighting ceremony that involves carols, horse-drawn carriage rides and a visit from Santa. Kingsport celebrates other holidays with parades, including the Fourth of July and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Among the many other events hosted by the city, Fun Fest is one of the most highly anticipated. The nine-day festival, held in mid-July, offers more than 100 different events, including sports tournaments, a hot air balloon show, concerts from nationally acclaimed bands and much more.
Bells have been ringing downtown since 1919 at a historic roundabout known as Church Circle.
Downtown Kingsport is the go-to spot for shopping and dining at local businesses.
Church Circle, is home to four large, brick church buildings with impressive steeples.
Kingsport earned the title "Model City" in 1917.
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A growing downtown scene and the beloved Pal’s
Downtown Kingsport is the place to go to shop and dine out at local businesses. But it didn’t always used to be that way. “Downtown was mostly sitting empty five years ago,” says Witherspoon. “There are still plenty of empty buildings, but they’ve done a good job revitalizing downtown and making it a place where people can do stuff and hang out. There’s actually a reason to go there now.” Downtown is home to the original Pal’s location, a local fast-food chain that has been serving the community since 1956 and gives locals a sense of pride. “It’s worth living here for Pal’s,” says Nowell. “Their goal is for you to place your order and have the food in your hands in like 7 seconds, and they actually do it.” While the pride and joy of Pal’s can be found all over Kingsport, it’s the city’s east side that offers the bulk of national chain restaurants and big box retailers.
A stroll through downtown Kingsport provides a delightful and charming experience.
Enjoy a meal at one of Kingsport’s many restaurants.
Kingsport offers a variety of outdoor activities, parks, and cultural attractions.
Pal's Roundhouse and the Kingsport Carousel and Park are cherished local landmarks.
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Highly rated school district that excels globally
Graded an A and ranked the fifth-best school district in Tennessee, Kingsport City Schools earns higher ratings than the outlying Sullivan County and Hawkins County school districts. KCS serves the city through eight elementary schools, all of which are named after deceased presidents. The school district also has two middle schools, both of which feed into Dobyns-Bennett High School, known by locals simply as DB. The high school is big on sports, with the Indians having the winningest boys basketball and baseball programs in the country. The football team also competes at a high level, appearing in 35 of the last 37 state playoffs. DB excels in many other areas on a global level, with the winter guard and Future Business Leaders of America teams winning world championships in 2023, and the robotics team appearing in the world championship from 2021 to 2023.
Nestled in the Appalachian foothills, Kingsport offers abundant outdoor adventures and a growing downtown scene.
John Adams Elementary School is a public school located in Kingsport, TN.
Ross N. Robinson Middle School serves grades 6-8 in the Kingsport City School District.
Dobyns-Bennett High School educates around 2,400 students in the Kingsport School District.
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Getting around Kingsport, the Tri-Cities region and beyond
Most people drive to get around, but public transportation is available through Kingsport Area Transit Service (KATS), with four shuttle buses that run along fixed routes and four others that offer rides by appointment for seniors and people with disabilities. Locals have several options for getting around the Tri-Cities region, whether driving 25 miles south on Interstate 26 to Johnson City or heading 25 miles east to Bristol from either U.S. 11W or Interstate 81. These same highways also lead the way to several other U.S. cities. “This is a great jumping-off point,” says Fleming. “You can be in Nashville in four hours, Charlotte in three hours and DC in about six hours.” Flying is also an option from Tri-Cities Airport, with direct flights to Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Orlando and Tampa Bay.
Kingsport locals have several options for getting around the Tri-Cities region.
Kingsport was founded in 1761 along the banks of the Holston River.
KATS Shuttle Bus helps residents of Kingsport get around town.
Bristol Motor Speedway is a thrilling destination for motorsports enthusiasts in Kingsport.
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Crime rates declining
Rates of both violent crime and property crime have been on a steady decline over the past 20 years, but the city's overall crime rate still runs higher than that of Tennessee and the United States. According to FBI statistics, residents of Kingsport are more likely to be victims of a property crime than a violent crime. After more 311 reported vehicle thefts in 2022, the Kingsport Police Department released a step-by-step plan for the community to follow to prevent vehicle break-ins. In 2023, vehicle break-ins dropped by a third.
Written By
Nicolas Stuart
Photography Contributed By
Anna Cheng
Video By
Mike Dunleavy
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Melissa Townsend,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Kingsport, TN sell after 34 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Kingsport, TN over the last 12 months is $220,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This inviting, well-cared-for brick ranch offers a wonderful combination of comfortable one-level living, flexible space, recent improvements, and a convenient location.Inside, you'll find beautiful hardwood flooring throughout the living room, dining area, and bedrooms, complemented by tile or vinyl flooring in the kitchen, bathrooms, and sunroom. The kitchen features granite
Marlene BernasconiWeichert Realtors Saxon Clark JC
Welcome to this beautifully updated two-story home in the highly desirable Windrush Subdivision, conveniently located just off the Rock Springs exit in Kingsport. Offering an exceptional combination of space, style, and functionality, this 5 bedroom, 2.5 bath home is designed to accommodate every stage of life. The thoughtfully designed floor plan features formal living and dining rooms, along
Wonderful home in stunning stunning Edinburgh! Don't miss the summer pool season. Come check out this beautiful newer home in one of the most sought after areas in Kingsport! This home has access to the community pool and is part of the Edinburgh HOA (not the Evarts Valley HOA). Very rare lot and a beautiful home with many updates. The Belhaven floor plan is a 2 story, 2 car garage home with 4
Back on Market at No Fault of Seller! Whether you're a first-time homebuyer looking for an affordable place to call home or an investor searching for rental potential, this well-maintained, move-in-ready 1-bedroom, 1-bath duplex offers an excellent opportunity in a convenient Kingsport location. As the owner of this side of the duplex, you'll enjoy comfortable living spaces, recent updates,
Spacious home in a quiet country setting located conveniently between Johnson City and Kingsport. A classic white picket fence adds charm to a great yard with mature trees.Upstairs you'll find a nice kitchen with newer appliances that's open to the living room and dining room. Three bedrooms with custom closets and two full bathrooms. The large sunroom is a really nice bonus area for the
Welcome to Catawba Street! Located in the heart of Kingsport, this spacious home offers the convenience of nearby shopping, dining, entertainment, parks, and more all just minutes away. With 2,550 square feet of finished living space on the main and upper levels with hardwood floors throughout, plus an impressive 1,485 square feet of unfinished basement space, this home offers plenty of room to
Stately contemporary home situated on a beautiful .4-acre wooded lot! Boasting over 2,800 sq. ft. of living area, this spacious property features large bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a full walk-out basement with endless potential. HUD Property Disclosure: This is a HUD-owned property sold AS-IS WHERE-IS without warranty or representation. REF# 481-429262. All offers must be submitted online at
Located in the prestigious Huntington Woods section of Ridgefields, this exceptional 5-bedroom, 5 1/2-bath custom home offers quality craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and impressive spaces for both everyday living and entertaining. Meticulously maintained and updated, this move-in-ready home features generous living areas, exceptional storage, and impressive indoor and outdoor amenities. The
Seize the chance to own this centrally located 7-unit multi-family property in Kingsport, TN, offering an excellent return on investment. The complex includes five 1-bedroom, 1-bath units and two 2-bedroom, 1-bath units, all fully occupied with total monthly rents of $7,090.Each unit is equipped with mini-split systems for efficient heating and cooling, ensuring tenant comfort year-round.
Cute cottage in a convenient Bloomingdale location! This charming one-level home offers the perfect blend of comfort, character, and convenience. Large picture window that fills the space with natural light. Outside, you'll find a spacious fenced backyard that's perfect for pets, play, or entertaining. A storage shed provides extra space for lawn equipment, tools, and outdoor storage needs.
Welcome to 2954 Southbridge Road! This 3 bedroom, 2 bath Orth-built home offers the ease and convenience of single-level living in a desirable Kingsport location. Situated on a spacious 0.55 acre lot at the end of the road, this property provides a welcoming setting with plenty of outdoor space and added privacy.Inside, you'll find a comfortable and functional layout designed for easy
Charming one-story home on a level lot with a beautiful running creek in the spacious and level backyard. Featuring a newer roof, this well-maintained house is in pristine condition. The seller is leaving most of the stylish furniture for the buyer—just bring your beds and settle in. Truly move-in ready! As a bonus the 3 Bedroom singlewide trailer next door, on a separate parcel with its own
Prepare to fall in love with this exceptional one-owner custom home, perfectly situated on a level cul-de-sac lot in the prestigious Windridge subdivision. Offering privacy with no homes directly behind or beside the property, this all-brick residence combines timeless craftsmanship with an outstanding location just minutes from downtown Kingsport, Bristol, and Johnson City. Designed with comfort
**FIRST MONTH RENT FREE!!!**NEW CONSTRUCTION, single family home for lease! One level living with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and a 1 car garage. This open floor plan home features LVT flooring throughout and is conveniently located in Kingsport City Limits. The open concept plan features a large living room that is open to the kitchen. The kitchen offers white cabinetry, granite countertops, pantry,
Overlook at Indian Trail is the ultimate combination of luxury and relaxation. Your spacious apartment is full of the designer touches you expect and even features a few upgrades that might surprise you! The gourmet kitchens feature brushed-nickel hardware, black name-brand appliances, built-in microwaves, and breakfast bars. Luxury living goes beyond your apartment home with an array of
**FIRST MONTH RENT FREE!!!**NEW CONSTRUCTION, single family home for lease! One level living with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and a 1 car garage. This open floor plan home features LVT flooring throughout and is conveniently located in Kingsport City Limits. The open concept plan features a large living room that is open to the kitchen. The kitchen offers white cabinetry, granite countertops, pantry,
Welcome to Legacy Apartments, where comfort, convenience, and affordability come together in the heart of Kingsport, TN. Offering a variety of thoughtfully designed studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartment homes, Legacy Apartments provides the space and value you're looking for in a place you'll be proud to call home.Conveniently located near shopping, dining, schools, and major
Discover modern, convenient living at 1900 American Way in Kingsport, TN. This community offers 30+ newly renovated apartments, available both furnished and unfurnished, designed for flexibility and comfort. Residents enjoy predictable monthly expenses with electric, water, and high-speed internet included for a flat rate of $200.The property features 24/7 on-site security, a full-service
Welcome home to Allandale Falls Apartments, located in Kingsport, Tennessee! Allandale Falls Apartments sits on 27 acres of beautifully landscaped land and provides residents with gorgeous views of Bays Mountain. Enjoy our remarkable amenities including our resort-style pool, fitness center, clubhouse with complimentary WiFi, on-site laundry facility, lighted sports courts, grilling and picnic
Welcome home to Stoneview Apartments, where comfort, convenience, and modern living come together in one of the most desirable locations in Kingsport, Tennessee. Our spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes are thoughtfully designed to fit your lifestyle, whether you're a professional, student, or growing family.Located just minutes from Eastman, Holston Valley Medical
Find your new home today at Cross Creek Apartments! We were voted Kingsport's Best Apartment Community for 12 consecutive years!! Settle into one of our inviting one or two bedroom apartments. If you are searching for an inviting and relaxing space, you're in luck! Our units offer spacious living areas, fully-equipped kitchens, generous closet space, private patios, washer/dryer connections, and
Welcome to Town Park Lofts Apartments! As a resident, you’ll enjoy modern interior design in our one, two, and three bedroom apartments, along with an extensive selection of unparalleled amenities. All of our floorplans offer high-end features and sleek finishes, such as in-home washers and dryers, tile surround showers, oversized walk-in closets, private patios or balconies, lofty 9- to 15-foot
Brandy Mill is an apartment community conveniently located at 2416 E. Stone Drive, Kingsport, Tennessee 37660 — close to shopping, dining, outdoor recreation, and major employers. Residents love our spacious grassy and shaded grounds, swimming pool, BBQ grills, club house with Wi-Fi, and tennis and basketball courts. They appreciate roomy walk-in closets, ample parking, a laundry center, and
**Self guided tours available from 7am to 8pm, 7 days a week! Visit the leasing office to start the tour- no appointment needed!**Discover the essence of convenience and comfort at Kingsport Crossing in Kingsport, Tennessee. Our pet-friendly community welcomes you with spacious two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment homes featuring washer/dryer connections and a private patio or balcony.
Bradley Hills Apartments is a charming apartment community nestled in the heart of Kingsport, TN. Surrounded by lush greenery, this community offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere that is perfect for those seeking a quiet and relaxing lifestyle. The apartments at Bradley Hills are spacious and modern, with open floor plans, high-end finishes, and washer/dryer hookups. Residents enjoy a variety
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