House Design and Cost to Build in Rural vs. Urban Tennessee: What’s the Difference?

If you’re thinking of building a house in East Tennessee, one of your biggest concerns may be how location affects your house design and cost to build. Whether you dream of living on a quiet corner of the countryside or in a charming neighborhood, each comes with its own unique benefits and challenges. 

At Red Door Homes, we’ve helped families across East Tennessee design and build homes that fit their needs, style, and location. Below, we’ll share the key factors that influence house design and cost to build in urban versus rural areas so you can choose what’s right for you.

Before we start comparing, let’s look at the basics. A few different things can influence your house design and cost to build, no matter where you choose to live. These usually include:

Some of these costs are straightforward, but others may come as a surprise. Knowing how location plays a role in each of these areas can help prevent any unpleasant surprises, though.

Building in rural Tennessee has several advantages, especially with cost and flexibility. In most rural counties, land is more affordable and easier to come by. This often means you can get more space for your money, perfect for those wanting to build a garden or workshop. 

Building codes and zoning restrictions also tend to be more relaxed in rural areas. This gives you more freedom to customize your home without having to constantly jump through hoops. Permits are still required, of course, but the process tends to be quicker and less expensive. 

Labor and material costs can also be lower in more rural areas. Because there is less competition for construction crews and suppliers, prices may be more reasonable. However, areas that are extremely rural may cost more to bring materials and workers to the site. 

Some common home features that we see in rural builds include:

Ultimately, your house design and cost to build can often stretch further in rural areas, so you get the flexibility to add more personal touches. 

If you prefer to live in a city like Knoxville, that’s great, too! You may want to be closer to schools, work, shopping, or entertainment. However, this comes with different considerations for your house design and cost to build.

Land in urban areas is usually more expensive and harder to find. You’re often working with smaller lots, and those lots may have more specific restrictions based on the neighborhood, city zoning laws, or homeowners associations (HOAs). 

The permitting process also tends to be more detailed in the city. You may need to go through additional inspection or planning reviews, which can add more time and cost to your build. 

You may also find that labor costs are higher in urban areas. Delivery of materials is often easier because roads are more accessible, but high demand for construction services and tighter regulations to follow can increase your overall cost. 

All considered, some of the most common features we see in city builds include:

Urban house design and cost to build can come at a premium, but you do get more access to certain services and amenities. 

Where you build often influences how your home looks and functions. For example, rural homes often feature: 

While urban homes often feature:

Your personal taste is what matters most, but it may be helpful to consider what designs work best in your chosen location. 

One of the biggest advantages of living in a rural area is the freedom to customize. Whether you want a backyard workshop or a large front porch, you’re more likely to be able to build what you want. 

In urban areas, customization is still possible but may need more planning. Setback rules, height limits, and historical district regulations can all impact your design. And if your lot is narrow or close to your neighbors, you may need to get creative with your layout. 

Whether you’re building in a wide-open field or a cozy city lot, our team at Red Door Homes can help you understand what’s possible. We believe house design and cost to build should be clear and predictable, no matter where you live.

If you’re still torn between city and country life, ask yourself a few questions. Do you prefer quiet, privacy, and more space? Are you comfortable being further from stores and schools? If so, rural living may be best for you.

Or do you prefer being close to entertainment and other daily needs, even if it means a smaller footprint? If so, urban living may be your perfect lifestyle. Ultimately, it boils down to what matters most to you. 

Choosing where to build your home in East Tennessee is a big decision, but understanding the differences in house design and cost to build makes the process a lot smoother. Rural areas offer space and savings, while urban areas offer convenience and connection. Each comes with tradeoffs, but the right builder can help you navigate them all.

At Red Door Homes, we work with you to design a home that fits your location, your needs, and your budget. Whether you are eyeing a quiet lot in the Smokies or a neighborhood just minutes from downtown Knoxville, we are here to help you build a home you will love for years to come.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to learn more about your options or browse our customizable floor plans .