LaFollette is a bedroom community between the mountains and the lake
LaFollette is among a string of communities between Cumberland Mountain and Norris Lake. The community is close to hiking and spots for off-roading, and residents can also easily dine near the water or enjoy the day on a boat. This city of just 7,000 draws those looking to escape Knoxville’s crowds, and those who work in places like Harrogate, where the median single-family home price is higher. “It’s a bedroom community for Knoxville,” says Tracy Lobertini, a broker with Alco Builders & Realty. “Also, the lion’s share of people who move here from out of state are moving here to retire.”
Housing prices vary depending on size and proximity to the lake
Homes in the LaFollette area are on many hills, and narrow roads without sidewalks are common. Many who live along the lake have amenities like private backyard docks. Common architectural styles include ranch-style homes and bi-levels. Other styles include Craftsman bungalows, Colonial Revivals, New Traditionals and cabins. Many homes under 2,000 square feet go from about $120,000 to $350,000. Homes that are either larger or near the water run between $420,000 and $800,000. A few more upscale and lakefront homes go from $880,000 to $2.3 million. Square footage also affects condo costs, with units going from $380,000 to $780,000. However, just over half the area rents, with notable communities including the floating cabins near the Whitman Hollow Marina.
Outdoor recreation includes off-roading, hiking, boating and golf
The city borders a section of the North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area, one of several off-roading spots in the region. Hikes through the 70,000-acre area lead to views of the valley, waterfalls and elk sightings. Marinas along the lake offer launch sites for Jet Skis and boats. “It’s got several marinas, and they also have restaurants, live music and everything at these marinas,” says Melissa Newberry, a Realtor with Mountains to Lakes Real Estate. Lonas Young Memorial Park, another lakeside spot, is a popular swimming hole. Golfing sites include The Greens at Deerfield, which has a public 18-hole course near the water. Dr. Lee J. Seargeant Park has a playground.
Downtown has staples for brunch, baked treats and hot dogs
Several restaurants and shops are downtown, including Seven Loaves Kitchen, which serves breakfast, lunch and desserts. Its options include grilled sandwiches, omelets, crepes topped with berries and cream, muffins and croissants. Royal Lunch & Billiards claims to have the world’s best hot dogs and draws pool players. The restaurant has rustic decor and several deer head mounts on its walls. Outside the city, Tiki Hut serves bar fare right along the water. Food Lion and Food City are some grocery shopping options. Many here also go to Walmart in neighboring Jacksboro.
Students may attend LaFollette schools and Campbell County High
Campbell County Public Schools serves the area and gets a C from Niche. Schools in the community include LaFollette Elementary and LaFollette Middle, both of which receive C grades. Students may attend Campbell County High School, which also gets a C. The high school offers dual-credit courses for students thinking of going into fields like nursing. The high school’s other activities include Junior ROTC.
Seasonal festivals bring in live music and crafts
Since 2023, the city has hosted the Tally Town Festival in October. The downtown event celebrates the history of the Italian and Welsh immigrants who worked in the city’s early industries. The festival brings in several food trucks and live music. The Postmark LaFollette Spring Fling and Music Festival offers similar activities in April. Some event vendors sell handmade crafts, string instruments, and festival fare like funnel cakes.
Commuters travel on U.S. 25W and I-75
Many here drive to get around the area and reach larger cities like Knoxville. U.S. Route 25W connects to Interstate 75, less than 10 miles southwest of LaFollette. The interstate goes to Knoxville, about 40 miles south. LaFollette is also about 50 miles north of McGhee Tyson Airport, the region’s hub for commercial flights. When it comes to health care needs, the city has LaFollette Medical Center.
