Moving From Simi Valley to Nashville?

We've helped Simi Valley families move to Tennessee, and the Nashville area keeps coming up. If it's on your list, the move has two halves: selling your home here without surprises, and knowing what changes the day you become a Tennessee resident.

Our free guide, Leaving California: The Seller's Game Plan, covers:

• The tax questions to answer first, and the list to bring your CPA
• A worksheet for your real walk-away number
• Three ways to time your sale with your Nashville purchase
• How to sell from a distance if you've already moved
• A 90-day checklist for leaving the state

The California side: what to settle before you list

• Capital gains. If you owned and lived in the home for two of the last five years, the IRS generally lets you exclude up to $250,000 of gain ($500,000 for most married couples filing jointly). That's IRS Publication 523.
• California can still tax the gain after you move. A California home is California-source income, so the state can tax the gain even if you already live in Tennessee. Your CPA will want to see the numbers before you list, not after.
• The withholding form nobody warns you about. At closing, escrow may withhold 3⅓% of the sale price for the California Franchise Tax Board unless an exemption applies (Form 593). Selling your main home often qualifies for one. Ask early so it doesn't catch you by surprise.
• Timing. Sell first, buy first, or close both at once. We plan both moves together so you're not stuck in between.

What changes when you move to Tennessee

• No state income tax. Tennessee doesn't tax wages or personal income. California can still tax income earned in California, including the gain on your California home.
• Sales tax is high. Tennessee makes up for it at the register. In Nashville the combined rate is about 9.25%, so budget for it on furniture, appliances and a car.
• 30 days for your driver license. Tennessee says new residents must get a Tennessee license within 30 days of establishing residency, at a full-service Driver Services Center. You register your car through the county clerk. Check tn.gov for current requirements.
• Storms and humidity. Spring brings severe weather. Ask about the roof's age, drainage and insurance when you compare homes, and visit in July to feel the humidity.
• HOAs in newer suburbs. Many newer neighborhoods around Nashville have HOAs. Read the dues and rules before you write an offer.

Questions people ask

Does Tennessee have a state income tax?

No. Tennessee doesn't tax wages or personal income. California can still tax income from California sources, such as the gain on a California home sale.

How long do I have to get a Tennessee driver license?

Tennessee says new residents must get a Tennessee license within 30 days of establishing residency. Check tn.gov for what to bring.

Can you sell my Simi Valley home if I've already moved to Nashville?

Yes. We handle showings, vendors and updates here, and escrow can usually arrange for you to sign where you are.

Can you help me find an agent in Nashville?

Yes. We'll help you connect with an experienced local agent there and coordinate both closings so the dates line up.

Is this tax advice?

No. We're Realtors, not CPAs. We explain the general rules and give you a real estimate of your sale price and selling costs to take to your tax professional.

Keep reading

• Leaving California? How to Sell Your Simi Valley Home and Time Your Move
• How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House in Simi Valley?
• Moving from Simi Valley to Las Vegas
• Moving from Simi Valley to Phoenix
• Moving from Simi Valley to Boise
• Moving from Simi Valley to Dallas
• Moving from Simi Valley to Florida

Sources: Tennessee Department of Safety, New Residents; Tennessee Department of Revenue (sales tax, registration); IRS Publication 523; California Franchise Tax Board, Form 593. Rules change, so confirm details with the agency or your tax professional. Information current as of October 2026.