Are you considering a move from Arkansas to Tennessee? You're not alone. Thousands of Arkansas families are discovering what Tennessee—and specifically Cookeville—has to offer: lower taxes, more freedom, better opportunities, and a thriving community of like-minded families who value faith, tradition, and independence.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about relocating from Arkansas to Tennessee, with special focus on why Cookeville might be the perfect destination for your family's fresh start. We'll cover the practical benefits driving this migration, Tennessee's exceptional homeschool freedom, why Cookeville specifically stands out, and how Pilgrim Baptist Church serves as a spiritual home for families making this transition.
Why Arkansas Families Are Moving to Tennessee
The migration from Arkansas to Tennessee isn't random—it's driven by compelling practical advantages that directly impact your family's quality of life, financial future, and freedom to live according to your values.
The Tax Advantage: Keep More of What You Earn
The single biggest financial benefit of moving from Arkansas to Tennessee is straightforward: Tennessee has NO state income tax.
Arkansas levies a state income tax ranging from 2% to 4.4% on your earnings. While that might not sound dramatic, it adds up quickly. For a family earning $75,000 annually, you could be paying $2,000-$3,000 per year in Arkansas state income taxes—money that goes straight back into your pocket when you move to Tennessee.
Let's break down what this means for real families:
A family earning $50,000 saves approximately $1,500-$2,000 annually
A family earning $75,000 saves approximately $2,000-$3,000 annually
A family earning $100,000 saves approximately $3,000-$4,400 annually
Over a decade, that's $20,000-$44,000 back in your family's hands—money for your children's future, paying off debt, building savings, or simply enjoying a better quality of life. Tennessee compensates through sales tax, but the research shows Tennessee residents end up with significantly more disposable income. According to recent tax comparison data, after accounting for all taxes (income, property, and sales), Tennessee households have approximately $10,000 more in annual disposable income compared to Arkansas households with similar earnings.
Cost of Living: Affordable Housing and Living Expenses
While housing costs in major Tennessee metros like Nashville have risen dramatically, Cookeville remains remarkably affordable—often comparable to or even lower than many Arkansas communities, especially when you factor in the tax savings.
As of 2024, median home prices in Cookeville range from $280,000-$320,000, with many excellent family homes available in the $200,000-$350,000 range. This is significantly more affordable than Nashville (median $450,000+) or Knoxville (median $350,000+), while still giving you access to all the advantages of Tennessee.
Compared to Arkansas, the overall picture is compelling: Yes, Tennessee's median home prices are approximately 56% higher than Arkansas statewide. However, this statistic is heavily skewed by Nashville and Memphis markets. In Cookeville specifically, you're getting comparable or only slightly higher housing costs than Arkansas cities, but with the massive benefit of no state income tax.
When you run the real numbers for a typical family:
Arkansas: Lower home price, but 2%-4.4% state income tax every single year
Tennessee (Cookeville): Comparable home price, zero state income tax forever
The tax savings alone often make up for any difference in housing costs within just a few years.
Conservative Governance and Values
For families who feel increasingly alienated by progressive political trends, Tennessee offers relief. The state consistently ranks among America's most conservative, with strong constitutional protections, respect for religious liberty, Second Amendment rights without apology, and governance that trusts parents rather than bureaucrats.
Tennessee has constitutional carry—you can exercise your Second Amendment rights without government permission slips. The culture here respects responsible gun ownership as normal and necessary, not something to be ashamed of or regulated out of existence.
More importantly for families, Tennessee's government trusts parents to make decisions for their children rather than treating you as obstacles to be overcome. This manifests in homeschool freedom, parental rights in education, and policies that recognize the family—not the state—as the fundamental unit of society.
Strategic Location and Quality of Life
Cookeville sits at a strategic location that offers the best of both worlds: small-town living with big-city access.
Located right on Interstate 40, Cookeville is:
80 miles (1.5 hours) west of Nashville—access to major airport, shopping, and entertainment
90 miles (1.5 hours) east of Knoxville—University of Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains
Close enough to everything, far enough from the problems
You get small-town affordability, safety, and community, with the ability to access major city amenities when needed. It's perfect for remote workers, retirees, or anyone seeking balance.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Cookeville area is paradise. Within 15-30 minutes you have access to:
Cummins Falls State Park – spectacular 75-foot waterfall and swimming hole
Burgess Falls State Park – stunning gorge and multiple waterfalls
Center Hill Lake, Cordell Hull Lake, Dale Hollow Lake – three major Corps of Engineers lakes for boating, fishing, and water sports
Hiking, camping, hunting, and fishing opportunities throughout the Cumberland Plateau
The climate offers four genuine seasons without the extreme heat of the Deep South or the harsh winters of the North. You'll enjoy beautiful springs and falls, warm summers, and mild winters.
Growing Economy and Opportunities
Tennessee's economy is thriving. The state has attracted major corporations and continues to grow, offering job opportunities across manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and logistics. The median household income in Tennessee ($64,035) exceeds Arkansas ($56,335) by approximately 13.7%.
For entrepreneurs and business owners, Tennessee's tax structure and regulatory environment make it one of the most business-friendly states in America. Many families moving from states like California, Illinois, and New York are bringing their businesses with them or starting new ventures here.
Cookeville specifically has a growing economy anchored by Tennessee Technological University, a strong manufacturing sector, healthcare (Cookeville Regional Medical Center), and retail. The presence of a regional university means access to cultural events, educational resources, and a steady influx of young professionals.
Tennessee's Homeschool Freedom: Why It Matters
For many families fleeing failed public schools and restrictive education systems, Tennessee's homeschool laws are life-changing. Tennessee is widely regarded as one of the most homeschool-friendly states in America—and the difference between Tennessee and Arkansas is significant.
Tennessee's Multiple Homeschool Options
Tennessee law provides families with three distinct legal pathways to homeschool, giving you maximum flexibility:
Option 1: Independent Homeschool Register directly with your local school district by filing an annual Notice of Intent. You maintain complete control over curriculum, schedule, and methods. Requirements are minimal:
Parent must have at least a high school diploma or GED
Provide instruction for 180 days per year, 4 hours per day
Teach core subjects (reading, math, science, social studies—no specific curriculum mandated)
Standardized testing only in grades 5, 7, and 9 (free at local schools)
No home visits, no curriculum approval, no ongoing oversight
Option 2: Church-Related Umbrella School Approximately 95% of Tennessee homeschoolers choose this option. You enroll with a church-related school that provides oversight and services. Benefits include:
No direct registration with school district
Tremendous variety of services and support
Help with records, testing, transcripts, and graduation
Many offer co-ops, field trips, and extracurricular activities
School sets its own requirements (usually very family-friendly)
Option 3: Accredited Online School Enroll in an online private school approved by Tennessee. The school handles all legal requirements.
The key point: Tennessee gives you choices and respects your authority as a parent. The state recognizes that you know your children better than any government bureaucrat and trusts you to educate them.
Arkansas Homeschool Laws: The Comparison
Arkansas also allows homeschooling with relatively simple requirements:
Annual Notice of Intent to local superintendent
No specific curriculum requirements
No mandatory testing (was eliminated in 2015)
No required days or hours of instruction
Parents need no credentials
Arkansas homeschool laws are actually quite flexible. However, Tennessee offers something Arkansas doesn't: comprehensive support infrastructure.
The church-related umbrella school system in Tennessee is unmatched. These organizations provide community, resources, accountability, and services that help homeschool families thrive. In Arkansas, while you have legal freedom, you're more on your own to figure things out.
Cookeville's Thriving Homeschool Community
What sets Cookeville apart isn't just favorable state law—it's the actual community of homeschool families who have created a supportive, thriving ecosystem.
Pilgrim Baptist Church has a strong and growing homeschool community. Many families in our church homeschool, and they actively support one another through:
Shared resources and curriculum recommendations
Encouragement and practical wisdom from experienced homeschool parents
A church culture that celebrates and supports your choice to homeschool
Beyond our church, Cookeville has:
Multiple homeschool co-ops offering classes, labs, and group activities
Sports leagues and teams specifically for homeschooled students
Tennessee Tech University nearby (potential for dual enrollment, campus resources)
Active homeschool support groups throughout Putnam County
Libraries, museums, and parks that welcome homeschool groups
When you homeschool in Cookeville, you're not isolated—you're joining an established, welcoming community of families who share your values and commitment to giving your children an excellent, biblically-grounded education.
High School, Sports, and College
Tennessee's homeschool laws provide clear pathways for high school success:
Graduation: Parents issue diplomas when graduation requirements are met (no state mandate—you decide)
Transcripts: Parents create transcripts documenting coursework and grades
College admission: Tennessee homeschool graduates are regularly accepted to excellent colleges and universities
Sports participation: Homeschooled students have the legal right to try out for public school athletic teams (principal approval required for other extracurricular activities)
Many homeschool families in Cookeville use the university's resources, have children who participate in local sports, and have successfully launched their graduates into college, military service, trades, and careers.
Why Cookeville Specifically?
Tennessee is a great state, but why Cookeville specifically? Here's what makes this city uniquely attractive for relocating families:
Affordability Meets Accessibility
Cookeville gives you the best of both worlds: You get small-town affordability, safety, and community while maintaining easy access to major metropolitan amenities. Located on I-40 between Nashville and Knoxville, you can reach either major city in 90 minutes. This is ideal for:
Remote workers who occasionally need to travel
Families who want small-town life but appreciate access to big-city shopping, airports, and entertainment
Retirees who want to visit family in urban areas but not live there
The cost of living in Cookeville is notably lower than Nashville or Knoxville, yet you're not isolated in a truly rural area. You get genuine infrastructure, shopping, restaurants, healthcare, and services.
Safety and Community
Cookeville maintains a safe, family-friendly environment. Crime rates are significantly lower than Tennessee's major cities. Parents regularly report that their children can play outside, walk to friends' houses, and enjoy the kind of childhood freedom that's increasingly rare in urban and suburban America.
The community atmosphere is genuine. People know their neighbors, churches are full, and there's a shared set of values around faith, family, and freedom. This isn't performative—it's how people actually live.
Excellent Healthcare
Cookeville Regional Medical Center is a comprehensive medical facility serving the Upper Cumberland region. You're not sacrificing access to quality healthcare by choosing a smaller city—Cookeville has the medical infrastructure families need.
Education Options Beyond Homeschool
While we strongly believe homeschooling is an excellent choice, Cookeville offers solid options for families who choose traditional education:
Putnam County Schools serve most of Cookeville and surrounding areas. While no public school system is perfect, parents generally report satisfaction with their children's education and appreciate the absence of the radical ideologies and political agendas found in many urban school districts.
Tennessee Tech University provides significant community benefits:
Cultural events, concerts, and performances
Educational resources and potential dual enrollment for advanced students
Sports teams and college atmosphere
Economic stability and job opportunities
A "Transplant Church" for Relocating Families
Here's what makes this particularly relevant: Pilgrim Baptist Church specifically serves families relocating from other states. Pastor Fortunato and the congregation understand what it's like to leave behind everything familiar and start over in a new place.
Many families at Pilgrim are transplants from liberal states who were seeking:
A church that actually believes the Bible
A fellowship of believers who share traditional Christian values
A place where their faith isn't constantly under cultural assault
Fellowship with other families who made the same decision to relocate for faith and freedom
When you visit Pilgrim Baptist Church, you'll find:
Sound Biblical Teaching: Pastor Fortunato preaches verse-by-verse exposition from the King James Bible. No entertainment, no compromise, no watering down God's Word—just faithful biblical preaching.
Traditional Worship: Hymns, reverent atmosphere, and a focus on God rather than feelings or performance.
Strong Families: Marriages are honored, children are loved and disciplined, and families support one another in raising godly children.
Separation from Worldliness: We believe Christians are called to be separate from the world's values, entertainment, and culture. This isn't legalism—it's biblical Christianity.
Warm Fellowship: Despite holding firm convictions, Pilgrim is known for genuine warmth and hospitality. Visitors consistently report feeling welcomed and cared for.
The church takes seriously its responsibility to help transplant families integrate into the community. You won't be left to figure everything out alone.
Practical Steps for Your Arkansas-to-Tennessee Move
If you're seriously considering this move, here's how to proceed:
1. Visit Cookeville and Pilgrim Baptist Church
Before you make any commitments, visit Cookeville and attend services at Pilgrim Baptist Church. You need to see the area, meet people, and determine if this is the right fit for your family.
Plan to visit on a Sunday and stay for both morning and afternoon services if possible. Introduce yourself to Pastor Fortunato and let him know you're considering relocating. He'll be happy to discuss the church, answer questions, and potentially connect you with other families who've made similar moves.
While you're visiting, explore Cookeville:
Drive through different neighborhoods to get a sense of housing options and prices
Visit downtown Cookeville, parks, and recreational areas
Stop by Tennessee Tech's campus
Check out grocery stores, shopping, restaurants, and amenities
If you have school-age children, drive by Putnam County schools
2. Research Housing and Employment
Housing: Cookeville's housing market offers excellent value. Work with local real estate agents who understand the area and can help you find the right neighborhood for your family. Consider factors like:
Proximity to Pilgrim Baptist Church
School zones (if relevant)
Neighborhood feel and neighbors
Commute to work (if applicable)
Access to parks and outdoor recreation
Employment: If you're not self-employed or working remotely, begin researching job opportunities. Tennessee Tech, Cookeville Regional Medical Center, Averitt Express, and various manufacturing and retail employers provide stable employment. Nashville is 90 minutes away for those willing to commute or travel occasionally.
3. Connect Before You Move
Don't wait until after you've moved to make connections. Reach out to Pilgrim Baptist Church before relocating. Ask about:
Homeschool families willing to communicate with you
Housing recommendations and areas to consider
Practical advice about the move
How the church can help your family transition
The church can potentially connect you with members who work in real estate, various trades, or other professional services who can help facilitate your move.
4. Plan the Logistics
Moving approximately 350-370 miles from Arkansas to Tennessee (depending on your origin city) is manageable but requires planning:
Moving Companies: Professional movers for this distance typically cost $1,500-$5,000 depending on home size. Research licensed, insured Tennessee movers and get multiple quotes. Many families moving to Cookeville have used companies like B2 Moving, Freddy Duncan & Sons Moving & Storage (local Cookeville company), and national chains.
DIY Options: Renting a moving truck (U-Haul, Penske, Budget) is typically $500-$1,200 including fuel. This saves money but requires you to do all packing, loading, driving, and unloading.
Timing: Avoid peak moving season (June-August) if possible. Spring and fall moves are typically 10-15% cheaper. However, family considerations (school schedules, job start dates, lease endings) often dictate timing.
5. Handle Legal and Administrative Tasks
Before You Move:
File change of address with USPS
Notify Arkansas utility companies to disconnect services
Transfer or cancel insurance policies
Close or transfer bank accounts if needed
Collect medical and school records
Register vehicles in Tennessee (you have 30 days after establishing residency)
After Arrival in Tennessee:
Obtain Tennessee driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency
Register vehicles with County Clerk
Update voter registration
If homeschooling, file Notice of Intent if choosing independent homeschool option
Transfer medical records to local providers
Connect utilities at new residence
6. Make Pilgrim Baptist Church Your Priority
Your first Sunday in Cookeville, make attending Pilgrim Baptist Church your priority. Don't wait weeks to "get settled" before visiting. The church is designed to be your spiritual foundation and community as you build your new life.
During your first visits:
Introduce yourself and your family to Pastor Fortunato and church members
Ask about our family Sunday School
Learn about church ministries and opportunities to serve
Connect with other families, especially those with children similar ages to yours
Ask about fellowship opportunities during the week
The transition will be easier when you have a church family supporting you from day one.
Common Questions from Relocating Families
"Is Cookeville really conservative, or is that just marketing?"
Cookeville and Putnam County consistently vote 70-75% Republican in elections. Tennessee has constitutional carry, strong pro-life laws, and a government that respects religious liberty. The culture is genuinely conservative—people live according to traditional values, families are strong, churches are full, and faith is public and normal. This isn't a facade. That said, Tennessee Tech brings some liberal influence (as all universities do), and no place is 100% uniform. But compared to urban areas and blue states, the difference is dramatic.
"What if we can't find work in Cookeville?"
Many transplant families work remotely, which makes Cookeville ideal. If you need local employment, Tennessee Tech, Cookeville Regional Medical Center, and various manufacturing and logistics companies are major employers. Additionally, Nashville is 90 minutes away—some families accept Nashville jobs knowing they can enjoy Cookeville living and make the commute a few times per week or as needed.
"Will we be accepted as outsiders?"
Cookeville and Pilgrim Baptist Church specifically have embraced transplant families. You won't be the first or the only family relocating from another state. The church understands this calling and welcomes families seeking biblical truth and traditional values. Yes, you'll need to build relationships and become part of the community, but you won't face hostility or exclusion.
"Is the homeschool community really that strong?"
Yes. This isn't an exaggeration for marketing purposes. Cookeville has an active, vibrant homeschool community. Multiple co-ops, support groups, and activities exist. Pilgrim Baptist Church itself has numerous homeschool families who actively support one another. You won't be isolated—you'll have friendship, encouragement, and practical help.
"What about finding a good Christian school if we don't homeschool?"
Cookeville has several Christian school options, including schools affiliated with various churches and ministries. While Pilgrim Baptist Church doesn't currently operate a Christian school, the church can direct you to local options if you're exploring alternatives to homeschooling or public school.
"How do we know Pilgrim Baptist Church is the right fit?"
You won't know for certain until you visit, which is why we strongly encourage visiting before making final relocation decisions. Pilgrim is an independent Baptist church holding to the King James Bible, the old paths, and biblical separation. We're not charismatic, not Calvinist, not contemporary. We believe in literal biblical interpretation, reverent worship, and holy living. If you're seeking a compromising church with CCM and Christian rock, Pilgrim won't be the right fit. If you want faithful biblical preaching, traditional worship, and genuine Christian fellowship, you'll find it here.
Making the Decision
Relocating your family is one of life's major decisions. It shouldn't be taken lightly or rushed. Here's our advice:
Pray Specifically and Persistently: Don't just pray generally for "God's will." Pray specifically about whether God is calling your family to relocate to Tennessee and Cookeville. Ask God for clear direction, peace about the decision, open doors if it's His will, and closed doors if it's not. James 1:5 promises, "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."
Visit Before Deciding: Don't make this decision based solely on internet research. Visit Cookeville, attend Pilgrim Baptist Church, explore the area, and see if this is truly the right fit for your family.
Count the Cost: Be realistic about the challenges. You'll be leaving behind extended family, friends, familiar surroundings, and established routines. Moving is stressful and expensive. Make sure you understand what you're gaining and what you're sacrificing.
Consider Your Children: How will this move impact your children? Younger children typically adapt quickly. Teenagers may struggle more with leaving established friendships. Consider their education, social needs, and developmental stage.
Get Wise Counsel: Talk to your current pastor (if you have one), trusted Christian friends, and family members who can speak truth into your life. Not everyone will understand or support your decision, but seek counsel from mature believers who share your values.
Trust God's Providence: Ultimately, God orders the steps of His children. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." If God is calling you to move, He will provide and guide. If He's not, He'll make that clear as well.
The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters
For many families relocating from Arkansas to Tennessee—or from any state to Tennessee—this move represents something bigger than tax savings or better weather. It represents a commitment to raise your children according to your values without constant cultural warfare.
It represents the freedom to homeschool without excessive regulation. It represents living in a community where biblical Christianity is normal, not weird. It represents escaping environments where your faith, your convictions, and your family are under constant assault.
Tennessee—and Cookeville specifically—offers something increasingly rare in modern America: the freedom to live according to your convictions, raise godly children, worship without apology, and build a life grounded in faith, family, and freedom.
Pilgrim Baptist Church exists to serve families seeking this kind of life. We're not perfect—no church is. But we're committed to faithfully preaching God's Word, maintaining biblical standards, and creating a fellowship of believers who support one another in following Christ.
If you're considering relocating from Arkansas to Tennessee, we invite you to visit, explore Cookeville, and see if God is calling your family here. We'd be honored to walk alongside you in this transition and welcome you into our church family.
Contact Information
Pilgrim Baptist Church
170 4th Ave. Cookeville, TN 38506
Service Times:
Sunday School: 10:00 AM
Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00 AM
Sunday Afternoon Service: 2:00 PM
Thursday Midweek Service: 6:00 PM
Listen to past sermons HERE
For questions about relocating, visiting the church, or connecting with our congregation, please reach out through our website or call the church office. Pastor Fortunato and our church family look forward to meeting you and potentially welcoming you to Cookeville and Pilgrim Baptist Church.
Moving from Arkansas to Tennessee is more than changing your address—it's about building the life God has called your family to live. We pray this guide has provided helpful, practical information as you seek God's direction for your family's future.