Chicago is one of the biggest sources of new neighbors in Middle Tennessee, and the reasons repeat almost word for word: taxes, winter, and the sense that you get more house and more life for the money. It also helps that it's a straight shot. Nashville is about seven hours down I-65, or under two hours by plane.
The Math: Chicago vs. Nashville
Tennessee has no state income tax on wages. Illinois takes a flat 4.95% off the top, so the move works like a raise before you've unpacked a box. The bigger number is usually property tax. Illinois has some of the highest property taxes in the country, and Cook County and collar-county bills regularly run several times what a comparable home pays in Davidson or Williamson County. Sales tax is a little lower here too: Chicago sits at 10.25%. Franklin and Brentwood prices aren't cheap, but once you net out taxes, most Chicagoland buyers find their monthly cost of ownership goes further.
Where Chicagoans Land
- Franklin — the North Shore equivalent: top-ranked Williamson County schools, a historic Main Street, and established neighborhoods with real trees. Franklin guide →
- Brentwood — the Hinsdale or Naperville feel: bigger lots, quiet streets, and a quick drive into Nashville. Brentwood guide →
- Nolensville & Spring Hill — newer construction and more square footage for the money, the way the outer suburbs work back home. Nolensville guide → · Spring Hill guide →
- East Nashville, Germantown & 12South — for the Logan Square, Wicker Park, and Lincoln Park crowd: walkable blocks, great restaurants, and older homes with character.
Want to see how your Chicago budget translates here? Let's talk →
What Changes
Nashville is a car town. There's no L, so plan on driving and pick a neighborhood with your commute in mind. Summers are longer and more humid, and winters are short; a couple inches of snow will close schools here, which Chicagoans find very funny. Homes are less likely to have basements. And BNA has plenty of nonstops to O'Hare and Midway, so getting back for family, Wrigley, or a proper Italian beef is easy.
Buying (and Selling) From Out of State
Most Chicago buyers do the early search remotely. I run live video walkthroughs, give honest notes on each house, and plan one efficient trip to see the finalists. One difference worth knowing: Illinois sales usually run through real estate attorneys, while Tennessee closings are handled by title companies and can usually be completed remotely. I'll coordinate timing so you're not carrying two houses longer than you have to.
Common Questions
Does Tennessee have state income tax?
No. Tennessee does not tax wages. Illinois takes a flat 4.95% of income, so most Chicago households see an immediate raise in take-home pay after the move.
Are property taxes lower in Nashville than in Chicago?
Generally, yes, and often by a wide margin. Illinois has some of the highest property taxes in the country, while Davidson and Williamson County rates are among the lower ones for a major metro. A comparable house here usually carries a much smaller annual bill.
Where do people from Chicago move to near Nashville?
Franklin, Brentwood, Nolensville, and Spring Hill are the most common suburban picks. For city living, East Nashville, Germantown, and 12South are the closest match to neighborhoods like Logan Square, Wicker Park, and Lincoln Park.
How far is Nashville from Chicago?
About 470 miles, or roughly seven hours by car, most of it straight down I-65. Nonstop flights from BNA to O'Hare and Midway take under two hours.
Can I buy a home in Tennessee without being there in person?
Yes. Most out-of-state buyers do the early search by video, make one trip to see the finalists, and complete the closing remotely.
Want the full breakdown on Tennessee property taxes? Read the Nashville TN Property Tax Guide 2026.
Thinking about the move from Chicago?
Tell me what you're leaving, what you want more of, and your timeline. I'll tell you where you'll actually be happy, and I'll run showings by video until you're ready to fly in.
Let's TalkMore relocation guides: New York to Nashville · Minnesota to Nashville · Los Angeles to Nashville.