Looking to find your people? Knoxville has all kinds! Click on any neighborhood name below to learn more about their part of town.
Bearden, is a dynamic and eclectic region of Knoxville about 5 miles west of downtown, marrying suburban and urban features. Boasting a mix of residential and commercial spaces, Bearden offers residents diverse dining, shopping, and entertainment options. This area caters to a wide range of tastes and interests, from cozy cafes to trendy boutiques. Whether you are into nature, music, breweries, shopping or design, Bearden has something for everyone. Take a stroll through Lakeshore Park or visit the Everly Brothers Park for a taste of history and beauty in Bearden. With its convenient location in Knoxville and its amenities, Bearden remains a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike in Knoxville.
Cedar Bluff is a vibrant suburban community in the western part of Knoxville. Cedar Bluff is in the heart of Knoxville’s commercial corridor with proximity to I-40 and I-75. Residents enjoy an abundance of shopping centers, restaurants, recreational/entertainment facilities, and golf courses in the area. The Cedar Bluff name comes from a small quarry where cedar marble was mined, and an artificial bluff was slowly carved into a hillside. The road through what was then rolling farmland became known as Cedar Bluff Road. With its proximity to major highways and shopping centers, Cedar Bluff provides residents with effortless connectivity to the greater Knoxville area.
Gibbs is located northeast of downtown Knoxville in the Corryton neighborhood. It is a tranquil rural community known for its expansive farmland. Its Ruritan Club encourages community engagement and events like the annual Gibbs Christmas parade. With its sprawling fields, wooded areas, and rolling hills, Gibbs offers residents a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty and access to Spence Nicely Bird Sanctuary and Hiking Trail. Boasting a strong sense of community pride, friendly locals, and a laid-back atmosphere, Gibbs is an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxed and scenic lifestyle in East Tennessee, away from the hustle and bustle of urban living.
The Cumberland Avenue/UTK area of Knoxville pulsates with the vibrant energy of college life and urban activity. Home to the University of Tennessee’s flagship campus, this bustling district is a hub of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and spirited athletics. The McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture and the famed Clarence Brown Theatre bring culture and entertainment to the area. With a dynamic mix of student hangouts and housing, eclectic shops, and student-friendly eateries, Cumberland Avenue exudes a youthful atmosphere and a lively focal point in Knoxville’s college social scene. Just off Cumberland Ave, you will find historic landmarks such as the World’s Fair Park and the Sunsphere in one direction and the stunning UT Gardens and Volunteer Landing featuring the Star of Knoxville Tennessee Riverboat and the Three Rivers Rambler Heritage Railroad in the other. With its blend of collegiate charm and Southern hospitality, the Cumberland Avenue/UTK area is a captivating destination that captures the essence of Knoxville’s spirited community.
Downtown Knoxville, the vibrant heart of the city, buzzes with activity and historic charm. From Market Square, where farmers’ markets, outdoor concerts and festivals thrive, to the bustling streets lined with shops, restaurants, rooftop bars and cultural landmarks, downtown offers something for everyone. Housing varies from condos to apartments and some single-family dwellings. The area is walkable for pets and people. It features iconic stops such as the vibrant Tennessee Theatre, Bijou Theatre and Crutch Park. With its mix of historic architecture, modern amenities, and lively atmosphere, downtown Knoxville is a dynamic urban center that invites exploration and enjoyment.
East Knox is on the eastern outskirts of Knoxville and offers a unique blend of rural tranquility and urban accessibility. East Knox boasts a rich cultural heritage, with historical sites like Marble Springs State Historic Site, the Beck Cultural Exchange Center, and the Knoxville Botanical Gardens and Arboretum, offering glimpses into the region’s past. It is also home to Zoo Knoxville, Chilhowee Park, and the Tennessee Valley Fair. Despite its rural charm, the area is undergoing development, with new housing developments and infrastructure projects enhancing its appeal. With its scenic landscapes and promising growth, East Knox presents an enticing opportunity for those seeking a balanced lifestyle in Knoxville.
Farragut, the furthest southwest neighborhood in Knox County, is an affluent suburban enclave known for its upscale homes and thriving commercial centers. With its manicured neighborhoods, scenic parks and recreational amenities like Concord Park and McFee Park, Farragut offers residents a high quality of life, whatever you are looking for. Boasting a strong sense of community through its many community events and convenient access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options in Turkey Creek, Farragut is a sought-after destination for families and professionals seeking a blend of luxury and tranquility in East Tennessee.
Fountain City, a historic neighborhood formerly known as Fountain Bluff, is nestled in the northern part of Knoxville, just 6 miles from the heart of downtown. It exudes a charming blend of old-world charm and modern convenience. Known for its iconic 12-acre Fountain City Park and picturesque Fountain City Lake, this area offers residents and visitors a serene retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Annexed into Knoxville in 1962, Fountain City has a unique identity with quaint shops and locally-owned restaurants. Fountain City maintains a strong sense of community and pride through its public Easter Egg Hunt, Art Festival and Christmas Parade.
Halls Crossroads, known locally as simply “Halls,” is located in the northern part of Knoxville adjacent to Fountain City. Beaver Ridge separates the two communities. Halls Crossroads is named after Thomas Hall, an early settler who began establishing the area. It was a crossroad for Emory Rd., created to allow wagons to reach Nashville and Maynardville Pike. It is a thriving suburban community known for its family-friendly atmosphere and convenient amenities like the local country club, golf courses, community parks and greenways along Beaver Creek. Halls is an ideal neighborhood for those seeking a rural, family-friendly setting in East Tennessee.
Happy Holler, located north of downtown Knoxville on Central St., is a quirky and eclectic neighborhood brimming with character and charm. Initially established in the 1930s as the downtown commercial center for an industrial neighborhood, Happy Holler/Central has evolved through the years from a rough and tumble place with juvenile gangs and violence to a place that was named for its abundance of entertainment, beer joints, dance halls and its own picture show, The Joy Theatre. Modern-day Happy Holler are many local, well-established vintage shops, restaurants, bars, event venues and many of the breweries you’ll find on Knoxville’s Ale Trail. The area offers residents and visitors a unique and offbeat experience as Knoxville continues to grow northward. This neighborhood is host to multiple street festivals and outdoor concerts year-round. With its laid-back atmosphere and gritty history, this dynamic neighborhood embodies the essence of Knoxville’s scruffy spirit.
Hardin Valley, situated on the northwestern outskirts of Knoxville, is the fastest-growing suburban community in Knox County. Hardin Valley is within easy reach of the urban amenities residents want and far enough away to enjoy the local waterways, parks for outdoor enthusiasts and Clayton Performing Arts Center for those preferring indoor entertainment. Many locally owned coffee shops, restaurants, breweries, and shopping are well established in the area, contributing to this thriving community. With easy highway access, Hardin Valley is ideal for those commuting to Maryville, Oak Ridge or Downtown. Boasting top-rated schools, recreational facilities, and a variety of housing options, Hardin Valley appeals to those seeking urban amenities without the urban costs.
Karns, located northwest of downtown Knoxville, slopes from Melton Hill Lake at the foothills of Fork Mountain. A farming town turned charming suburban community, Karns is known for its tight-knit neighborhoods and family-friendly atmosphere. Many of the homes in Karns are on large lots, unlike other more densely populated areas of the community. Among Karns’ remaining farmland and pastures are subdivisions, schools, small businesses and light industry. Beaver Creek is a popular location for outdoor activities. The area’s rural charm has dramatically increased its population over the years and contributed to more economic development, but being only 11 miles outside the Knoxville city center allows for easy commuting outside the community.
North Knox, situated north of downtown Knoxville, is a neighborhood celebrated for its historic charm and burgeoning revitalization efforts. Characterized by tree-lined streets, charming bungalows, and a mix of residential and commercial spaces, this area offers a welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. North Knox is home to popular destinations such as the historic Fourth & Gill neighborhood, which boasts beautiful Victorian-era homes. It has a vibrant community spirit with many local breweries, locally-owned restaurants, and art galleries. Its historic charm and proximity to downtown attractions like Market Square, Old City and Happy Holler/Central St. provide character and convenience to North Knox residents. As revitalization efforts continue to unfold, North Knox is poised to become an even more desirable destination, blending its storied past with modern amenities and opportunities.
Powell is a community northwest of downtown Knoxville. While Knoxville proper may be more prominent, Powell was settled two years earlier than Knoxville in 1789. It was later named after Columbus Powell who was a prominent local resident. Powell is a vibrant suburban community with its own “downtown” area that locals still treasure for its shops, eateries and history. New development in the region and proximity to downtown Knoxville and Oak Ridge makes Powell a desirable destination for residents in northern Knox County. Tourists come to see the history and the famed Airplane Service Station that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Recreational facilities like Powell Station Park and community events provide a welcoming and convenient environment for families and individuals seeking a peaceful yet connected lifestyle in East Tennessee.
Rocky Hill is a charming neighborhood renowned for its scenic beauty and upscale living. Rocky Hill is conveniently located near major thoroughfares like Kingston Pike and Northshore Drive, providing easy access to highways, downtown Knoxville, shopping centers, and recreational opportunities. Rocky Hill’s close-knit community fosters a sense of belonging, where neighbors gather for the annual Christmas Parade and festival, and frequent local eateries. The area is dotted with elegant homes, many of which boast stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Centrally located in Knoxville, Rocky Hill is just minutes from anything you need. It continues to attract discerning individuals seeking a peaceful yet well-connected place to call home in East Tennessee.
Sequoyah Hills, nestled in the western part of Knoxville, between the University of Tennessee campus and West Knoxville, is a picturesque residential neighborhood renowned for its plethora of architectural designs dating back to the 1800s and its natural beauty with many well-established gardens, dogwood trees and cherry blossom trees. With its tree-lined streets, spacious homes, and proximity to Sequoyah Hills Park and the Tennessee River, the Sequoyah Hills area offers residents a serene retreat from city life. Located in a bend of the TN River known as Looney’s Bend, Sequoyah Hills is home to some of the city’s most affluent residents. Boasting a strong sense of community and a convenient location near downtown Knoxville, Sequoyah is an idyllic haven for those seeking a blend of suburban comfort and urban accessibility.
AKA SoKno, located just south of downtown Knoxville, is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood known for its diverse culture, connection to nature through the Urban Wilderness and thriving entrepreneurial community. Nestled along the Tennessee River, this area offers stunning waterfront views and easy access to outdoor recreational activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking in the Urban Wilderness. This 1000-acre area has over 60 miles of trails and greenways connecting Knoxville to many lakes, quarries, historic sites, playgrounds and more. SoKno is also home to the Downtown Island Airport and the beloved Island Home Ave. With SoKno’s mix of historic homes, trendy boutiques, and artisanal eateries, South Knox exudes a unique charm that attracts residents and visitors alike. With its strong sense of community, South Knox continues to be a dynamic and sought-after destination in Knoxville.
Carter, located northeast of downtown Knoxville, is a quaint and close-knit neighborhood inside the Strawberry Plains community, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and rolling hills. With its rural charm and peaceful atmosphere, Strawberry Plains/Carter offers residents a tranquil retreat from the city while still being within a half hour of urban conveniences. Large grassy lots and rolling hills are a draw for many newcomers to the area. Paschal Carter Park is the neighborhood’s largest green space, with 44 acres along the creek, encouraging residents to explore its greenway and waterways. Strawberry Plains/Carter is an ideal destination for those seeking a simpler way of living in East Tennessee.
The Old City is situated in the northeast corner of downtown Knoxville, only steps away from Market Sq. It is a historic district brimming with character and vitality, though despite its name, is not the oldest part of the city. The railroad industry came to Knoxville in the 1850s. Along with it came Irish immigrants who established the first saloons and businesses in this downtown area. Known for its walkability, industrial architecture, and vibrant nightlife, the Old City is a hub of creativity and culture. With a diverse array of businesses, art galleries, restaurants, shopping, live music and theater venues, this dynamic neighborhood offers an exciting urban experience steeped in Knoxville’s rich heritage.
West Hills is a well-established neighborhood tucked away from the highway but close enough for easy access to major roads. Established in the 1950s, West Hills tree-lined streets and spacious homes offer a serene suburban lifestyle with a touch of historic charm. With its convenient location just a short drive from downtown Knoxville and the University of Tennessee, West Hills appeals to families, students, and professionals alike. Residents can enjoy nearby parks, including John Bynon Park, and access to various shopping and dining options along Kingston Pike. Known for its strong sense of community and long-standing community association, West Hills continues to be a sought-after destination for those seeking a blend of comfort and convenience in East Tennessee.
Visit City of Knoxville’s Neighborhood Empowerment site and KGIS Neighborhoods map (under Other Maps).
Map dots are intended to show general area and do not represent actual neighborhood size or boundaries.