Leaders say more industries set sights on moving to Knoxville, more people moving from California

Knoxville is still growing, and industries across the U.S. are setting their sights on moving to the Volunteer State because of it. More people are moving to the city from California, according to some city leaders.

Experts also said industries and businesses are moving to Knoxville because it is so nearby research, academic and technology powerhouses — Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the University of Tennessee and the Tennessee Valley Authority.

The businesses headed to Knoxville include electric vehicle manufacturers, battery companies and TV production companies, according to experts.

"Those technology assets are unmatched globally, and we are trying to find those companies that can come here, set up operations and tap into those technologies at the lab, the university or TVA," said Doug Lawyer, the Vice President of Economic Development at the Knoxville Chamber.

Industries aren't just moving to Knoxville from California because of its convenient location near business resources. Experts also say the city offers a different lifestyle.

Some people move because the city offers a lower cost of living coupled with no state income tax. Many others may simply want to live in a place with less traffic located near the great outdoors and several national parks.

And with more industries adopt virtual workplaces, many professionals are finding more mobility across the U.S. to move to cities that better accommodate their lifestyles.

Source: WBIR

The East Tennessee Economic Development Agency markets and recruits business for the 15 counties in the greater Knoxville-Oak Ridge region of East Tennessee. Visit www.eteda.org

Published June 3, 2021