Louise Lopez expertly guides queer individuals to vibrant, inclusive U.S. and North American neighborhoods with 15+ years of dedicated experience, ensuring they find not just a home, but a community where their authenticity is celebrated and protected.
One of the most common thoughts you might have before relocating anywhere is how accepting the locals are towards the LGBTQ+ lifestyle. It is a very valid concern and something that sadly still needs to be considered in this day and age.
To help queer folx who are considering moving to Gay Tennessee, we have put together this guide from experts on the ground, considering the pros and cons of life here, discussing LGBT rights in Tennessee and whether Tennessee embraces our community.
We also take a look at the most gay-friendly cities in Tennessee and LGBT community organizations in Tennessee that you should be aware of!
Tennessee is a state with a diverse range of attitudes toward the LGBTQ+ community. Some cities in the state, such as Nashville and Memphis, have a relatively accepting and progressive culture towards LGBTQ+ people, with active LGBTQ+ communities and resources available. However, in other areas of the state, particularly in rural areas, attitudes may be less accepting, and there may be fewer resources available for the LGBTQ+ community.
In addition to this, Tennessee does not have state-wide protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity, and the state has laws that have been criticized for being discriminatory towards the LGBTQ+ community, such as the “Natural Marriage Defense Act” and “Counseling Discrimination Law”
Even though this almost certainly isn’t the first state you would think about when it comes to living your best LGBT life, the reality on the ground is that Tennessee actually has a lot to offer in certain cities and neighborhoods that host LGBT organizations and vibrant Pride celebrations. Think about living in places in Tennessee as access to southern hospitality with a dash of pink!
Whether it’s LGBT events, culture, businesses, and lifestyle, the (largely urban) queer community in Tennessee has much to offer, even while state legislation isn’t friendly when it comes to LGBT protections (or sometimes outright hostile). Thankfully as a safeguard, Tennessee is blessed with a variety of LGBTQ+ community organizations that acts as resources, safe spaces, and platforms for the community to come together.
If you choose carefully in this beautiful state, you’ll find the perfect place to call home with people who will embrace you for who you are regardless of your gender identity, expression, or sexual orientation.
To reduce the stress of your potential relocation, we recommend engaging a gay realtor in Tennessee early in the process to help you find your new perfect home there. They will have up-to-the-minute information on the best cities and areas for LGBT people and be able to match your needs to a neighborhood most suited to you.
You can just start with a no-obligation conversation, and if you decide to continue with your move to Tennessee – they will not only have your best interests at heart but also ensure you are treated with dignity and respect throughout the entire process.
In this article we will cover...
Highlights Of Moving To Gay Tennessee
It’s hard not to get enthusiastic about the unique and tempting proposition that moving to Tennessee presents – especially once you get chatting with residents and long-time locals in the know about all their state’s hidden gems and best-kept secrets. After all, this is why many chose to live here.
Once you move here, you should quickly befriend locals, let them ‘spill the tea’ and then spend your free time discovering the best sights, food, nature and culture Tennessee has to offer. On top of this, thanks to an offbeat yet deeply engaged LGBT community – which congregates at a few fabulous queer hot spots – securing a relocation to Tennessee should allow you to meet local queer people with similar interests.
We are certain locals will have many more to add, but to get you excited, here are just a few highlights to look forward to as you become Tennessee’s newest denizen.
LGBT Nightlife
If you’re new to Tennessee, finding the perfect place to let your hair down or meet new friends can be a challenge. However, if you’re moving to Chattanooga, the city has a variety of LGBTQ+ entertainment that you can enjoy.
Whether you’re in the mood for themed evenings with plenty of karaoke, dance music, or talent shows, Chattanooga is one of the cities in Tennessee that you can enjoy.
With entertainment venues, such as clubs, bars, or a discotheque that host shows all throughout the year, you’re bound to find something you can enjoy here. If it’s theater you’d rather enjoy, The Palace Theater is an excellent place to enjoy live music, films, and comedy shows.
There are also equally fabulous gay scenes in Nashville, Knoxville and Memphis…though locals are fiercely divided over which is best.
World-Class Music Scene
Tennessee is known for its energetic music scene, particularly in cities like Nashville and Memphis. The state is home to several famous music venues, such as the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium, and is also known for its diverse range of music genres, including country, rock, and blues.
In addition to this, the state is also home to several enviable music festivals and events, such as the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival and the Beale Street Music Festival, which you’ll want to clear your calender for each year..
Beautiful Natural Scenery
Tennessee is known for its beautiful natural scenery, from the Great Smoky Mountains to the rolling hills of the Cumberland Plateau.
The state is home to several national and state parks, such as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Obed Wild and Scenic River, as well as many other outdoor recreational areas, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, the state offers a wide variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing, making it an ideal place to enjoy the great outdoors.
Rich History and Culture
Tennessee is known for its rich history and culture, with many historical sites and landmarks to explore. The state is home to several colonial-era towns, such as Jonesborough and Greeneville, as well as several museums and art galleries that showcase the state’s history and culture.
Additionally, Tennessee is known for its diverse cuisine, such as the famous Memphis-style BBQ and its vibrant arts and culture scene.
Activism
Living in a city that values and embraces activism is a great way to live. Knoxville has a gay community that is historically known for activism over the years.
Knoxville was the center of suffrage protests more than 100 years ago, and it was a man who lived outside the city boundaries that cast the deciding vote that would come to ratify women’s right to vote.
The city has a large, mixed, and vibrant LGBTQ+ population that has made significant contributions towards activism that other cities in the south haven’t.
LGBTQ+ Rights In The USA
The laws governing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people have altered considerably over time in the United States and vary from state to state. In many ways, LGBT rights are some of the best in the world – but the devil is in the detail, and some places are much more hostile to queer life than others.
While same-sex marriage has been legal in every state since the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges ruling on June 26, 2015 (before Obergefell v. Hodges, same-sex marriage was legal in 36 states and Washington, D.C. ), LGBT people are still treated differently in different states – both societally and as inequality under the law.
Over half of all states still allow discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity/expression, while counties and cities within states often have distinct laws as well. While some states permit adoption by all couples, others forbid it for all unmarried couples.
This is all to say what most of us already know is that LGBT rights and equality differ greatly across the USA, and the specifics of family, marriage and anti-discrimination laws are different in every state.
Thus, while it is comforting to know that you can choose to marry whoever you love across the USA (and have it recognized as such) and are protected against hate crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity (which can be punished under Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009), there are still many questions you will likely have about moving to Tennessee and what you can expect of LGBT life there.
Does Tennessee Embrace The LGBTQ Community?
Tennessee legislature has introduced many bills. However, one that has attracted lots of attention locally and nationally is a proposal that seeks to exclude same-sex couples from a new marriage contract.
According to those that support the bill, introducing this kind of legislation would allow couples, religious officials, and other people that are opposed to gay marriage a choice that wouldn’t conflict with their beliefs. Those who oppose the bill say that it’s a backward move that goes against the 2015 Supreme Court ruling that legalized gay marriage.
The truth is that in Tennessee, you’re likely to hear stories of LGBTQ+ people that have been victims of discrimination. LGBTQ+ people in the state have been denied housing or kicked out of their homes, fired from employment, or denied service in certain restaurants. The LGBTQ+ community in Tennessee does not have the vast number of protections that those in other more progressive states do.
In 2011, Tennessee adopted HB600, which canceled out local LGBTQ+ non-discrimination protections, even in Nashville, a city that is known to love and embrace the queer community.
Without LGBTQ protections, the community doesn’t have access to legal recourse at the state level when they experience discrimination. In addition to this, LGBTQ-friendly businesses have experienced violent attacks that have led to patrons and employees being placed at risk.
Is Tennessee An Expensive State To Move To?
The cost of living in Tennessee is 10% less than the country’s average. As a result of this, the state has the 14th lowest cost of living in the U.S. Let’s take a look at some of the costs you would have to bear when you move here:
Housing
If you’re looking to buy a home in the state, you should know that the average home value in Tennessee is $170,800. Renters should also know that rental values in the state are much lower than in many parts of the country. You can expect to spend approximately $830 each month for rent, which is less than the $1,170 per month average for the country.
Groceries
Stores such as Publix and Kroger are very popular in Tennessee. Groceries in the state cost 1% less than the national average.
Transportation
Expect to pay 5% less than the national average for transport costs in Tennessee. Memphis is much cheaper than the national average at 12% lower than the U.S. average.
Utilities
Expect to spend about $124 each month on your electricity bill in Tennessee, which is slightly higher than the country’s average. Your average monthly utility bill could cost around $145.
LGBTQ+ Community Organizations In Tennessee
Wherever you live, it is essential that you support LGBT organizations in any way you can so that they can keep reaching out to and assisting other, more vulnerable members of the community. After all, we are stronger when we work together, and each of us will likely have a time in our lives when we require a little extra support.
Thankfully, Tennessee has a supportive and diverse LGBTQ community, which has helped the state become more gay-friendly in recent years. Among these are the top Tennessee LGBT organizations, offering a beacon of hope and solidarity within the community.
As a result, there are a variety of LGBT resources available to community members, their allies, friends, and families – and you ought to feel free to utilize them or consider giving your support as needed to keep your new home state moving forwards! They are also great places to meet new people and find your queer chosen family in Gay Tennessee.
The Tennessee Equality Project seeks to find a community where everyone in the LGBTQ+ community can enjoy equal rights. The organization seeks to reach its goal through legislative advocacy and lobbies the state General Assembly and other local governments.
The Tennessee Equality Project also acts as a platform where LGBTQ people can let their voices be heard when there are vital federal issues in legislation.
The Table is an organization that promotes spiritual well-being in the LGBTQ+ community as well as minority people in Tennessee. The organization focuses on the deeper issues of faith, including belonging in the community, so that LGBT people can explore their self, community, and faith.
Nashville LGBT Chamber of Commerce
The Nashville LGBT Chamber of Commerce seeks to enhance economic growth, common goals, and equality for its members in the LGBT community. The organization does this by providing networking, educational programs, and community-building efforts for its members.
Sisters United is a group of Black lesbian and bisexual women. The group is diverse, with femmes, studs, and other women that take no definition. The group is so diverse that some of the women are mothers, some are professionals, and others are students.
The group aims to unite lesbian and bisexual women of different experiences and talents to foster understanding and unity. Sisters United is supported by the Young Brothers United and Brothers United groups.
Appalachian Outreach is on a mission to empower, support, and connect the Tennessee LGBTQ community. The organization seeks to do this by offering safe, inclusive, healthy and affirming programs that enhance respect for partnerships that take the front line in resource development, community building, and education.
Most Gay-Friendly Cities In Tennessee
In Tennessee, there are many wonderful areas to live in, but when relocating to LGBTQ Tennessee, you should be cognizant that there are a few cities and gaybourhoods that are nearer to the queer hubs of life. Knowing them will allow you to pull your U-Haul up to your new house in a gay-friendly neighborhood or town that is best suited to your needs.
If you’re a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or otherwise queer person seeking a welcoming neighborhood with facilities you’ll cherish, start with these top gay and gay-friendly Tennessee cities to discover your perfect new home, each with its distinct personality.
Give yourself enough time to acquaint yourself with Tennessee’s diverse personalities, and remember that there is no one perfect answer when it comes to the most gay-friendly places in Tennessee… and just because it does not make our list doesn’t necessarily make it a bad option.
We recommend speaking to a local LGBT real estate agent for a more detailed understanding of the best options today. Now, let’s take a look at where these fabulously gay-friendly cities in Tennessee are and why you might want to consider them!
Chattanooga
The city of Chattanooga is home to a close-knit and dynamic gay community. Northshore neighborhood is home to the most significant LGBT population, and you will find an active LGBT scene here.
Chattanooga is also home to many LGBTQ-owned businesses like boutiques and coffee shops. People here are welcoming and friendly and exude the famous southern charm that such locations are known for.
No one area in Chattanooga’s specific to the LGBT community. You’re likely to find the gay scene wherever you go in the city so prepare to encounter a diverse population when you move here. You don’t have to worry about having a good time here either, because the locals are so friendly that they will guide you wherever you want to go.
Chattanooga has so much to see and do. The city has a vibrant arts and culture scene, as well as beautiful scenery. What’s more, you will be able to rent bikes here so you can adventure wherever you want.
The city is home to many breweries and eateries for casual and fine dining. Foodies will love living here since many of the restaurants are locally owned and operated, and the chefs aren’t scared to explore their cuisine.
If you’re looking forward to enjoying more traditional southern cuisine, look no further than Chattanooga. Here, you will find fried chicken, fried pickles, and delicious southern barbecue. Wherever you go in Chattanooga, you’re likely to find LGBTQ people thriving and building businesses to support themselves and their community!
Not only this, but you will also feel welcome in many of the shops, bars, and restaurants all over town.
Most people want to live in Chattanooga because of its offerings in outdoor recreation as well as the thriving startup scene, but the first thing you will realize when you move here is that the city is a hub for the LGBTQ community in the state.
If you want to live in a city that is inclusive no matter where you live, Chattanooga is the perfect location for you!
Nashville
Nashville is also known as Music City. Over the years, the city has been known as a center of inclusivity and creativity Nashville is a unique city with a persona that attracts both visitors and residents who make the city a welcoming and warm place for everyone that visits or lives here.
The city is home to an LGBT Chamber of Commerce that acts as a resource for LGBT businesses and people as well as a platform where they can come together and find a common interest. Nashville is also home to a vibrant annual Pride festival and proudly LGBT-owned businesses. Whether it’s bakeries, cafes, or hotels, there’s a queer-owned business for you to enjoy here.
Music City is home to the state’s largest LGBTQ+ event, Nashville Pride, which it hosts at the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park each September. Here, you will find several stages with local, regional, and local performers, a parade, dancing, family-friendly activities, and vendors everywhere. Nashville Pride brings in thousands of visitors to the city and promotes the city’s LGBTQ community all week long!
Nashville Predators Pride Night is also very popular in the city as it encourages those who take part in it to fly their Pride lags high! The festival happens in February each year and features lots of food and drink. The Nashville community is like no other, and residents here are so LGBT-loving that they don’t mind being the oddballs of the state simply for thinking differently and embracing the LGBT community.
The gay scene in Nashville has been present through the 1900s, and today, it is still thriving with more queer establishments than in other southern cities.
Knoxville
Knoxville is Tennessee’s largest city and is located at the base of the Smoky Mountains. Knoxville is LGBT-friendly, and you can easily see this when you attend Knox Pridefest, the biggest queer event in the city.
The festival happens each year in June and features a parade down Gay Street, lots of entertainment, and performances. You don’t need tickets to take part in Knox Pridefest as the entire festival is free of charge, thanks to continuous fundraising throughout the year. The city’s Pride event happens all over, with restaurants featuring pride nights, bourbon tastings, and fashion shows.
While Nashville and Chattanooga are gay-friendly cities, Knoxville is also a very family-friendly and LGBTQ-loving city that you shouldn’t look past. The city’s LGBTQ+ population is very friendly, and it’s not unheard of to hear plenty of people from out of town at a party hosted by one of the city residents.
Just like Chattanooga and Nashville, there’s a vibrant gay scene here, and even though it isn’t as big, it is still something. You will find a community here that embraces you and loves you for who you are, regardless of your sexual orientation or gender identity.
Finding Gay Realtors In Tennessee
When looking for the ideal realtor, why would you consider someone’s sexuality? This may seem strange at first, but there are several reasons why contacting a gay realtor in Tennessee is a great way to find your dream house.
After all, when it relates to one of life’s most significant transactions, it’s not unreasonable to expect fair, equal, and honest representation from someone who understands the queer community’s particular needs and wishes.
Furthermore, unfortunately, many people (up to a third of Americans) believe that our community does not deserve protection and dignity in housing, adoption, employment, and other areas of life.
So it’s no surprise that LGBT people who use mainstream realtors often describe feelings of discomfort, unnecessary trouble, unenthusiastic representation, or even antagonism or outright contempt.
Everyone deserves a pleasant, stress-free home buying or selling experience while being adequately represented, and this is why we feel you should hire a gay realtor to assist you in finding your future home.
LGBTQ realtors are more likely to be familiar with the diverse communities in their area and know which ones may be best suited to you when looking for a home.
That’s not to say a heterosexual realtor isn’t capable, but they’ve probably never had to address many of the issues LGBT people face.
Rather than just being concerned with how bustling, fashionable, or up-and-coming a neighborhood is (or what it may appear like), gay realtors conduct extensive research into the neighborhoods in which they sell homes to ensure that clients are safe.
It used to be challenging to locate professional LGBT-friendly real estate agents in Tennessee, and it was virtually impossible to find one if you were relocating here from out of state and didn’t have access to a local referral.
You no longer have to search for a realtor without knowing whether or not they are accepting of others because you can use a list of gay, lesbian, and gay-friendly agents in Tennessee to do all of your homework for you.
Simply go to the page, and you’ll be presented with a free list of gay, lesbian, and gay-friendly agents who can help you with your relocation as well as other useful information like LGBT+friendly schools, shopping, storage firms, tradespeople, and more.
Read the biographies of LGBT real estate agents, then choose the one who is right for you. It’s critical that you find someone who will be by your side and support you and your family during one of life’s most exciting occasions.
Even better, there is no hidden motive, cost, or obligation whatsoever!
