Where Is Tennessee? See Its Map Location and Surrounding States

Tennessee is a state that is steeped in fascinating history and it is known for being the home of country and bluegrass music. The state’s eastern part is also home to part of the Appalachian Mountain range. The Southern heritage plays a huge part in the state’s culture and vibes, as well.

Located in the South, most people know about the historical role Tennessee has played throughout American history. But the question is, do people know where Tennessee is? Do people know about its bordering states?

If you are wondering where Tennessee is, we will take a look at where it is on the US map. We’ll also explore Tennessee’s neighboring states, when Tennessee officially joined the union, the climate in Tennessee, and other facts about the Volunteer State.

Where Is Tennessee Located on the Map?

Tennessee is located in the Southeastern United States, in a region that is known as the South. With an area of 42143 square miles, it is quite a sizable state. But where is Tennessee on the map? Let’s take a look below.

When Did Tennessee Officially Join the US?

Tennessee has been inhabited for over 14,000 years and the Native American tribes that inhabited the state prior to Americans settling in the region were the Creek, Shawnee, Cherokee, and Chickasaw. Although it was not part of the original thirteen colonies, the US acquired the territory that is now the state after the British lost the American Revolution. It was admitted as the 16th state on June 1, 1796. During the War of 1812, thousands of Tennesseans joined the efforts to fight against the British and that is why the state is called the Volunteer State.

Upon the election of Abraham Lincoln as President of the United States in 1860 and worried about the threat that slavery would be abolished, Tennessee seceded from the Union and became part of the Confederate States of America along with the other Southern states. After the Civil War ended, Tennessee was the first to rejoin the US in 1866.

Which States Border Tennessee?

A whopping eight states border Tennessee — Kentucky and Virginia in the north, North Carolina to the east, Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi to its south, and Arkansas and Missouri to the west. A landlocked state, the state’s western border is the Mississippi River. Let’s take a look at the eight states that border the Volunteer State.

Kentucky

Capital: Frankfort

Population: 4.5 million

Nickname: The Bluegrass State

Admitted to Union: June 1, 1792 (15th)

Governor: Andy Beshear (D)

Virginia

Capital: Richmond

Population: 8.6 million

Nickname: Old Dominion

Admitted to Union: June 25, 1788 (10th)

Governor: Glenn Youngkin (R)

North Carolina

Capital: Raleigh

Population: 10.6 million

Nickname: The Tarheel State

Admitted to Union: November 21, 1789 (12th)

Governor: Roy Cooper (D)

Georgia

Capital: Atlanta

Population: 10.7 million

Nickname: The Peach State

Admitted to Union: January 2, 1788 (4th)

Governor: Brian Kemp (R)

Alabama

Capital: Montgomery

Population: 5 million

Nickname: Heart of Dixie

Admitted to Union: December 14, 1819 (22nd)

Governor: Kay Ivey (R)

Mississippi

Capital: Jackson

Population: 2.9 million

Nickname: The Magnolia State

Admitted to Union: December 10, 1817 (20th)

Governor: Tate Reeves (R)

Arkansas

Capital: Little Rock

Population: 3 million

Nickname: The Natural State

Admitted to Union: June 15, 1836 (25th)

Governor: Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R)

Missouri

Capital: Jefferson City

Population: 6.1 million

Nickname: Show Me State

Admitted to Union: August 10, 1821 (24th)

Governor: Mike Parson (R)

Is Tennessee a Good Place to Live?

Let’s take a look at the pros of living in Tennessee. The cost of living is nice and housing prices are quite affordable. They’re even affordable in the state’s big cities. There is also no state income tax in the state, which can be a good thing economically. Another pro is the lively and thriving music scene, which will ensure you have a good night every time you go out. The foodie scene is always a good thing and you won’t run out of good food to eat. Lastly, the weather is pleasant during autumn and winter, which means you won’t need to invest in sturdy and expensive coats.

Unfortunately, to every pro, there are also cons. The summers are hot and muggy, and sometimes even atrocious. Be prepared for tornadoes because, although big ones are rare, the state gets about 15 per year. Lastly, if you have allergies, be aware that pollen is high in spring and even fall.

What Is the Climate in Tennessee?

Tennessee has a humid subtropical type of climate, but near the Appalachians, it can actually have a more temperate climate. Although it is a landlocked state, Tennessee is greatly influenced by the Gulf of Mexico and thus, experiences a lot of rain. Summers are humid and quite hot and winters are cool and sometimes mild, depending on the region. When it comes to records, the highest temperature in Tennessee was 113 degrees Fahrenheit on August 9, 1930. The lowest recorded temperature was -32 degrees Fahrenheit on December 30, 1917.

As far as natural disasters go, Tennessee can get thunderstorms. The state is also susceptible to tornadoes, where the western and central parts of the state are the most vulnerable.

What Is Tennessee Most Known For?

Tennessee is known for many things, but primarily it is known for its country and bluegrass music. You see, the birthplace and hometowns of both country and bluegrass originated in the state. The music scene is lively and it is sure to instill a joyous fever in you that you won’t be able to shake. The food scene is also something to enjoy and you won’t be disappointed. Tennessee Whiskey also makes it home in the state.

When it comes to outdoor activities, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a good place to start. It has waterfalls that will stun you, hiking trails galore, and even mysterious caves you can explore. The state is also home to various animals like black bears, bobcats, and white-tailed deer.

Lastly, Tennessee has a rich history, especially in the fight against slavery and racism. Tennessee is definitely for history lovers who want to learn more about the state’s history, but also about the country’s history.

Fast Facts About Tennessee

• Capital: Nashville
• Population: 7 million
• Governor: Bill Lee (R)
• Lieutenant Governor: Randy McNally (R)
• State wild animal: Raccoon (Procyon lotor)
• State bird: Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos)
• State flower: Iris (Iris)

Conclusion

Tennessee is a beautiful state. Nestled between the Mississippi River and the Appalachian Mountains, the state’s topography is definitely a beauty to beholden. In the southwest, the Blue Ridge Mountains make for impressive landscapes. The state is also historically and culturally diverse — home to country music, bluegrass, and recognized actors and musicians. Tennessee has it all which makes it quite a great place to live.

The major cities in the state provide you with a lively lifestyle filled with good food, good music, and a lot of diversity. When it comes to the cost of living, the state is quite affordable. Even the cities of Memphis and Nashville are affordable, compared to other major cities in the nation.

Living in the state will provide you with many things to do, from hiking in the mountains to eating delicious meals and listening to good ol’ country music. At the end of the day, you won’t be disappointed in the Volunteer State.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/PeterHermesFurian