Community Profile: Kingsport, Tennessee

Overview & History

Early Settlement: Kingsport began as a settlement near the confluence of the Holston River’s North and South Forks. Originally known as "Salt Lick" and later "King’s Boat Yard," it became the chartered town of Kingsport in 1822, named after William King.  

Planned City & "Model City": Re-chartered in 1917, Kingsport was thoughtfully designed as a “garden city” with zones for business, housing, and industry. This smart urban plan earned it the nickname **“The Model City.”**  

Historic Highlights: The Netherland Inn (built 1802) now serves as a museum preserving early-19th-century life, including a log cabin that once sheltered Daniel Boone’s family.  

Community Spirit: Known for the prideful motto “The Kingsport Spirit,” the city has a legacy of civic engagement, low crime, and public service excellence.  

Demographics & Economy

Metric Details

Population ~55,400 (2020)  

Median Household Income ~$50,436 (2023) 

Per Capita Income ~$35,828 

Median Home Value ~$233,000 

Average Commute Time ~16 minutes 

Cost of Living ~19% below national average 

Economic Backbone: Kingsport is anchored by major employers such as Eastman Chemical Company (headquarters and large plant), Ballad Health (Holston Valley Medical Center, Indian Path Hospital), BAE Systems, and Kingsport City Schools. 

Schools & Education

Public School System: Kingsport City Schools serves about 7,400 students across 13 schools, from elementary to high school (Dobyns‑Bennett High School, D‑B EXCEL, and others) .

Academic Performance: The 2022–2023 state report card gave the district five schools grades of A, two B’s, three C’s, and one D (for a middle school), showing areas of strength and a clear roadmap for growth.  

Higher Education Access: Kingsport hosts satellite campuses of East Tennessee State University, Lincoln Memorial University, and Northeast State Community College at the Kingsport Academic Village, serving local college students with accessible education options.  

Local Attractions & Lifestyle

Outdoor Recreation:

Kingsport Greenbelt: An 8-mile paved trail weaving through parks, wetlands, and meadows—ideal for walking, biking, and community gatherings.  

Bays Mountain Park: A nature-rich park with planetarium, trails, and wildlife.  

Community Events:

Fun Fest: A nine-day July festival that draws about 100,000 attendees for parades, concerts, fireworks, and more. 

Santa Train: A heartwarming pre-Thanksgiving tradition where holiday cheer—and gifts—are delivered via train to local children. 

Cultural Sites:

The Netherland Inn Museum preserves early frontier life and local history. 

Kingsport Carousel: A community-crafted carousel in the climate-controlled “Roundhouse,” built by volunteers and sponsored by local business Pal’s Sudden Service. 

Unique Quirk: Kingsport claims to be the birthplace of the Long Island Iced Tea, celebrated with a dedicated mural and themed trail downtown. 

Why Kingsport, TN Makes a Great Home

Planned Livability with History: A forward-designed “Model City” with preserved historic landmarks and thoughtful urban layout.

Affordable & Accessible: Strong incomes, low living costs, and short commutes make everyday life practical and enjoyable.

Education for All Ages: Solid K–12 options coupled with local access to higher education institutions.

Vibrant Community and Nature: From bike trails to festivals, Kingsport strikes a balance between tranquil charm and cultural activity.

Sources: U.S. Census/ACS (QuickFacts, ACS), DataUSA, district sites.