That article in that post is crap. Go back and read it’s short paragraph on TN. Nothing but simple broad statements.
For example, “high state and local sales tax so you’ll pay more for everything you buy”. First, no crap Sherlock (to the author not you), that’s what a sales tax is and 48 states have one. Second, yes, at a max of 9.25% it might be considered “high”. But we again have no income tax. States with both take more between the two taxes.
Crime rate? Take out Nashville and Memphis and it’s non-existent persay.
Low property taxes, low cost of living, above average wages, decent year around weather, plenty of opportunity and growth, etc.
Could do worse.
Some states are definitely worse than others as far as overall tax burden, but relying purely upon the absence of a state income tax can be misleading. For instance, I love Texas, wonderful state, great conservative culture. You will, however, discover property taxes nearly on a par with New Jersey there as well. They’re going to get their pound of flesh, one way or the other, no matter where you go. If it’s not an income tax, it’s a property tax, bizarrely high vehicle registration fees (Washington State), sales tax, et cetera. It pays to check out all the ways a state can nick you financially and tally them up, not an especially easy thing to do. Tennessee is better than any northeastern state outside of possibly New Hampshire. It’s not exactly the cheapest state either, though. Whatever happened to Tenncare or whatever they’re calling the state healthcare boondoggle these days?
I didn’t figure it changed that much from when I lived there in the early 90’s.