Living in Gatlinburg means being surrounded by nature—and people who come from all over the world to see it. There’s a constant buzz downtown with shops, attractions, and events, but just a few minutes outside the strip, life slows down. Many residents enjoy the best of both worlds: mountain trails and quiet mornings, with entertainment, dining, and seasonal festivals just around the corner. It’s ideal for people who don’t mind a little hustle and bustle, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Gatlinburg is part of the Sevier County School System. Students in the area typically attend schools like Pi Beta Phi Elementary, Gatlinburg-Pittman High School, and nearby middle schools depending on their exact location. The county also offers career and technical education options and access to nearby colleges for continuing education.

Real estate in Gatlinburg ranges from cozy cabins to luxury chalets and everything in between. Many homes are perched on hillsides with incredible views, while others sit right near downtown. The short-term rental market is strong here, so some properties double as income-generating vacation homes. Whether you're looking for a permanent home or a second property, there’s a wide mix of styles and price points.

This is one of the best parts of living in Gatlinburg. You’ve got immediate access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with miles of hiking, waterfalls, wildlife, and scenic overlooks. Residents and visitors also enjoy river tubing, ziplining, fishing, and biking. If you’re into outdoor adventure, this town makes it easy to stay busy (or completely unplug).

Despite the tourism, there’s a tight-knit feel among locals—especially those who’ve lived here for generations. Many are deeply tied to the land, the culture, and the rhythm of the seasons. Local businesses and events still play a big role in day-to-day life. Gatlinburg has a mix of artists, entrepreneurs, nature lovers, and long-timers who help keep the town’s personality grounded and real.

Gatlinburg is directly connected to Pigeon Forge via the Parkway, making it easy to access even more attractions and services. Sevierville is a short drive away and offers more shopping, medical services, and big-box stores. The drive to Knoxville takes a little over an hour, giving you access to a full metro area when needed.

The town is home to the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. Oh—and Gatlinburg was originally called White Oak Flats before being renamed after Radford Gatlin… who wasn’t exactly popular with the neighbors and eventually got kicked out. Yep, the guy it’s named after got booted. Small town history never disappoints.