Compare KY, VA, TN for Real Cost (Martinsville, Williamsburg: to buy, income)

[TX2TN]

Hi! We're looking for the retirement place . Anyway, we've been focusing towards TN, but we're also interested in VA & KY. They all have beautiful wooded areas, the cost for property is very reasonable ($1K-3K/acre). We like the mountains and the trees and good churches (Pentecostal). Looking for a place where retirees from TX aren't frowned upon. TN doesn't have state income tax and VA has a "personal property" tax. So, how does the actual cost of living compare between these 3 states ? Figuring we'll be retired and on a fixed income. Which state make more sense finacially? I've heard some folks like to live in TN and shop in VA or NC. Does anyone have any comments/info or preferances?

We're hoping to buy land within the next 12-18 months . We're wanting rural wooded land (50-100 acres) with small percentage pasture. Also seeking the proverbial spring fed pond and creek. We'd like to be within an hours drive of a "larger city" (e.g., Nashville, Knoxville, Rahleigh, Bowling Green, etc.). Does anyone know anything of the Lebanon & Abington areas? Is it anything like Crossville, TN ?

Well, I guess I've rambled on enough. Would love to hear other folks opinions!

Thanks!
TX2TN

[williamsburgfan]

it is impossible to compare states - you need to compare exact areas - too many variables. where I live property taxes are 2/3 the cost less than a mile from me - since that is a different legal jurisdcition - or as much as 30% more 10 miles away.

you can compare GENERALIZATIONS, sure. such as is area X less expensive than area Y.

In general - the less the cost of housing and taxes the less you have in services OR location OR both - again, another genralization, but a good starting guideline.

fore retirement info much better resources than thios forum - check out AARp and the "places to live" publications.

sounds like you might like these areas in VA 1) south of smithfield towards NC and into the center of the State 2) north of gloucester - tappahnnock, mathews 3) SW area of the State

so many choices!!

[TX2TN]

Williamsburgfan,

The areas north and east of Kingsport are where I'm potentially looking in Virginia. Also, near Lebanon. My knowledge of Virginia is pretty limited. One of my co-workers is planning to retire near Martinsville. Their daughter graduated from Virginia Tech. That's a little further east than I wanted to be, unless there were some definite benefits. I do understand that until I am actually comparing one town/county to another I won't have a clear answer. Right now, I just have more information to chew on. Thanks

TX2TN