Looking to move to tri-cities area from Northern California (house, construction)

[DAW1184]

Hi everyone, I currently live in rundown Redding California. My wife and I are thinking about moving to Johnson city area. From what I've read and heard, the area sounds fantastic. One concern we have is about jobs besides working for Eastman. Are there many entry level jobs available? We have a 3 year old son and 3 dogs, and want at least half an acre with a budget around $200,000. What would be available??? We love the country life. Also, the last concern is emissions testing. I have a mid nineties ford power stroke diesel with modifications. It's smog exempt here, just wondering what I'd have to do to pass emissions there? Thanks for any input!!!

[jabogitlu]

No smog emissions tests in Tennessee except in Nashville (to my knowledge). What industry(ies) do you have experience in?

Redding, Northern California, and southern/rural-western Oregon really don't feel much anything like the southern Appalachians, culture wise or nature wise. But, the mountains of TN/NC are spectacular and beautiful. Have you visited this region of the country before?

[DAW1184]

Ok thanks for the information. I have experience in handyman type work, construction, and going to school for office administration/ medical coding and billing. We are 30 years old. My wife's uncle recently moved to gray I believe and loves it and trying to convince us to love there. I'm looking at all our options. We haven't been there, but gonna come explore in the spring.

[Serious Conversation]

There are entry level jobs if you're looking for something $10-$15/hr. The budget and acreage should be doable, although you may be farther from town than you expect or have to settle for a house that needs some work.