Who’s Moving To and From Tennessee?
In the latest Census data (2022), Tennessee gained about 47,771 more residents from other states than it lost — a net inflow. The most people arrive from Florida, and the largest number leaving head to Florida.
Top states moving into Tennessee
- Florida 21,990
- California 16,707
- Georgia 16,601
- Texas 13,181
- Illinois 11,350
Net interstate migration: +47,771 more people moved in than out (vs. the other 49 states).
Source: US Census Bureau, ACS State-to-State Migration Flows · as of 2022 · methodology
Where Tennessee residents go: the biggest destinations are Florida, Georgia and Kentucky. The single largest stream runs to Florida — about 16,437 people in a year. In total, roughly 160,706 residents left Tennessee for another state, versus about 208,477 who moved in.
Who moves to Tennessee: the largest inbound flows come from Florida, California and Georgia, led by Florida with about 21,990 arrivals. These corridors tend to reflect geography, job markets, and — increasingly — the gap in taxes and cost of living between the two states.
Why people come: Tennessee is a net magnet, and its profile explains why — no state income tax and a below-average cost of living let a paycheck stretch further than in the pricier states that feed it. Arrivals from Florida and other high-cost states are a large part of the story.
Thinking about joining one of these moves? The honest comparison is your full tax-and-cost picture, not one line of it. A move between Tennessee and Florida can change your take-home pay and monthly costs by more than people expect — worth running the numbers before you decide.
Compare Tennessee with any state in the comparison tool, check your take-home pay and cost of living, or see the national picture in the states Americans are fleeing and the state rankings.
Frequently asked questions
- Are people leaving Tennessee?
- On net, no — Tennessee gains more residents from other states than it loses, with a net inflow of about 47,771 in 2022. The most people arrive from Florida.
- Which state do most people move to from Tennessee?
- Florida is the top destination for people leaving Tennessee, with about 16,437 moves in the latest year, followed by Georgia and Kentucky.
- Which states do people move to Tennessee from?
- The largest inbound flows to Tennessee come from Florida, California and Georgia, led by Florida with about 21,990 arrivals.