Asheville has a more attractive downtown and it seems like there is more going on even though it is a smaller city than Knoxville. However, the job market in Asheville is lacking considering the cost of living.. housing in Asheville is pretty expensive for the area mostly because a lot of the people that live there are from somewhere else. Knoxville has a little more of a gritty feel that is starting to change. The University is definately a plus and adds a little more diversity to a very undiverse city. The cost of living is very cheap! Maybe you should live in Knoxville and just visit Asheville on occasion, they aren't that far apart and the drive through the mountains is beautiful!
Nicholas | Austin, TX | Report Abuse

Looking for ideas on best city to raise a family 20 Years of army and air force and now we are ready to retire. We are looking for ideas on great places to raise a family. We have an 11 year old autistic son and we are looking for a diverse place to work and go to school any ideas. we go to church, like meeting new people, but not the party types, we enjoy every type of music. I am african american my husband is biracial. We love to go to coffee shops and restaurants. We love theatres, them parks, to have dinner parties, nothing extravagant just a few close friends, etc. any good ideas
chere | Colorado Springs, CO | Report Abuse

I'm no expert but from what I know of Knoxville compared to Asheville, Knoxville is higher in crime and higher in polution. But I'm not sure which city is better for jobs. I been to Knoxville before but not yet to Asheville. I'm thinking of moving to Asheville, NC myself.
Lisa | Lexington, KY | Report Abuse

Oh one more thing about Knoxville, TN is that apartments and cost of living is less then Asheville, NC.
Lisa | Lexington, KY | Report Abuse

My best pick would be Asheville, NC. It's healthier and lower in crime then Knoxville, TN.
Lisa | Lexington, KY | Report Abuse