I just started researching the area and will bump this post for more input, too.
If you google Bristol TN/VA (I can't remember which), you should find a website that has some real negatives (unless you are rich). It basically says the area is very nice but being spoiled by rich retirees/good old boys who control everything, so pay is kept low and property taxes and values are rising -- which hurts the common citizen.
However, if you are considering relocating, you must have some money, so the issues affecting the locals might not touch you. They say the young, even educated ones, have to leave the area to get jobs because the 'network' of have's keeps the aspiring down. I have no idea about transplants but they are probably one rung up on the ladder.
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Who knows about Bristol???
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