Living in Kingsport, TN versus Johnson City, TN or Bristol, VA/TN


If you’re eyeing a move to the Tri-Cities region, picking between living in Kingsport, TN, Bristol, VA/TN , or Johnson City, TN is a common crossroads. Each city brings its own personality, price tag, and perks, but all share that friendly Southeast vibe. I’ve helped folks land here from all over the country, and the differences are real; from taxes to jobs to where you’ll want to spend your weekends.


Cost of Living Face-Off

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Kingsport, TN

Kingsport’s charm includes one of the most affordable lifestyles in the area — living costs are about 9-11% lower than the national average, especially when it comes to housing and essentials.
Home prices and rent are comfortably below big city norms, so you get more space for your money. Commutes are short, and you’ll quickly learn which grocery store gives you the best deal. 

Bristol, TN/VA

Bristol’s cost of living mirrors Kingsport pretty closely, with overall expenses about 11% below the national average.
Bristol, TN and Bristol, VA don’t differ too wildly in basic costs, but which side you live on does have tax implications (more on that in a bit).

Johnson City, TN

Johnson City trends a bit higher in day-to-day costs — about 3% lower than national averages but higher than the Tennessee state average.
Housing here isn’t cheap compared to Kingsport or Bristol, especially around newer developments near downtown and ETSU. If walkability and a more urban feel matter, you pay for it.

Quick take: Kingsport and Bristol will generally cost you less to live in, while Johnson City’s livability bumps things up a bit — but it’s still way friendlier on your wallet than most U.S. metro areas.


Job Market and Opportunities

Kingsport

Kingsport sits in a metro area with a mix of healthcare, manufacturing, and education jobs. Big local employers and training programs keep a steady base of positions in everything from technical careers to mid-level management. 

Bristol, TN/VA

Bristol straddles state lines, which makes the job picture interesting. Retail, hospitality, and logistics jobs are common, especially near big developments like The Pinnacle in Bristol, TN.
If you live on the VA side, be ready for state income taxes but sometimes lower sales tax — more on that next.

Johnson City

Johnson City is likely the biggest job hub of the three. It’s a regional engine for healthcare, education, and professional services, anchored by East Tennessee State University and major hospitals.
That broader base usually translates to more career options and slightly higher average salaries compared to its neighbors.


Taxes That Really Matter

Here’s where geography hits your paycheck:

Tennessee

  • No state income tax on wages. 
  • Sales tax is on the higher side across Tennessee, which hits every purchase you make. 

Virginia (Bristol, VA)

  • State income tax applies, which Virginia residents must file based on earnings. 
  • Sales tax is generally lower than Tennessee, but Virginia also adds personal property taxes on vehicles and some possessions. 

If keeping more of your paycheck matters, TN’s no-income-tax setup makes Kingsport or Bristol, TN financially attractive. But if you’re okay with some state tax for other quality-of-life factors, Bristol, VA has its own set of advantages.


What Locals Love to Do (and You Will Too)

Kingsport

  • Explore nature at Bays Mountain Park: Trails, overlooks, and even a nature center make this a weekend staple.
  • Tap into local eats and original spots (yes, Pal’s fans know the score). 
  • Catch a mural or music night and feel that small-town vibe with plenty of friendly faces. 

Bristol

This twin city has charm for days:

  • Bristol Motor Speedway makes race weekends legendary. 
  • Bristol Caverns gives you underground adventure you won’t forget. 
  • The Pinnacle shopping and entertainment district keeps weekends lively. 
  • Close access to the Appalachian Trail and South Holston Lake for consistent outdoor fun. 

Johnson City

You’ll find more classic “city stuff” here:

  • Trails, rafting, breweries, and a buzzing downtown scene. 
  • Museums, festivals, and events like concerts at Freedom Hall Civic Center. 
  • Outdoor hotspots like mountain bike parks and discovery centers keep life interesting year-round. 


Quick List: What Makes Each Spot Special

  1. Kingsport: Affordable living, low traffic, outdoor lifestyle.
  2. Bristol: Dual-state culture, Speedway thrills, caves and lakes.
  3. Johnson City: Healthcare and education hub, diverse entertainment, growing economy.


So, What’s the Verdict?

  • If budget is king: Kingsport or Bristol, TN keep more cash in your pocket without sacrificing quality of life.
  • If job variety matters: Johnson City usually offers more openings and career paths.
  • If taxes feel personal: Living in TN vs VA actually changes how much you keep every year.


All three cities share that warm Tri-Cities friendliness and access to rivers, trails, lakes, and mountains. Pick your vibe: peaceful and affordable in Kingsport, historically rich and scenic in Bristol, or energetic and growing in Johnson City. Give yourself a weekend to wander each town, chat with locals, and feel the vibe. You’ll know it when you get there.

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