Moving to Jonesborough, Tennessee? You picked a town with deep history and small-town charm, plus quick access to regional jobs and healthcare in the Tri‑Cities. Still, any move comes with a long to-do list that can feel overwhelming. This guide gives you a clear, local-first checklist with who to call, when to schedule things, and what to expect in 37659. Let’s dive in.
Jonesborough at a glance
Jonesborough is the county seat of Washington County and is widely known as Tennessee’s oldest town with a lively historic district and storytelling culture. You will find walkable streets, local shops, and events that draw visitors year-round. For background and planning context, explore the town’s profile on the state tourism site at Tennessee Vacation. Johnson City is the nearby regional hub, and Johnson City Medical Center is the primary hospital serving the area.
Your step-by-step relocation checklist
6–8 weeks out
- Get quotes from movers and verify licensing and insurance for interstate carriers using the FMCSA mover registry.
- Reserve storage if your closing timeline requires it.
- Check internet options at your new address and schedule installation. Fiber installs can take longer.
- If you are bringing vehicles, review Washington County requirements for titles and registration.
3–4 weeks out
- File your USPS change of address and update banks, subscriptions, and insurance.
- Gather school documents such as immunization records, birth certificates, transcripts, and proof of residency.
- Set utility start dates with the Jonesborough Water Department and the electric utility so power and water are on when you arrive.
- Start assembling a labeled “first week” box with essentials.
1–2 weeks out
- Confirm parking and loading logistics with the Town’s Public Safety team, especially for downtown addresses.
- Photograph current utility meter readings for your records.
- Prepare a simple floor plan for movers and label rooms and boxes.
Move week and move day
- Do a final walk-through and record meter readings at both homes.
- If you expect extra debris, review the rules for bulky pickup and place your town-issued tote correctly the night before collection.
- Keep driveways and common areas clear for the truck and crew.
First 1–2 weeks after move
- Register to vote and update your driver’s license address per state rules.
- Confirm school enrollment and transfer records are complete.
- Verify your property tax record, due dates, and payment method with the Town.
- Select local healthcare providers and move medical records to your new providers.
Set up utilities and services
Water and sewer
The Town of Jonesborough operates water and wastewater. You can start or stop service through the Water Department, set up billing, and access the emergency line. Learn how to open an account on the Jonesborough Water Administration page.
Electric power
BrightRidge is listed as the electric provider for the Jonesborough and Johnson City area. For outages and service questions, see the Town’s frequently requested numbers, which include the BrightRidge contact.
Internet and phone
BrightRidge Broadband has been deploying fiber and fixed wireless in parts of Jonesborough. Availability varies by street, so run an address lookup on provider sites early. If a new fiber drop is needed, allow extra lead time and get your installation window in writing.
Trash, recycling, and bulky items
Jonesborough provides weekly residential curbside garbage service and supplies each household a 95‑gallon tote. Bulky and e‑waste pickups are available by request, and the town provides drop-off recycling options. Review the schedule, fees, and rules on the Solid Waste & Recycling page, and confirm current rates before your move.
Local admin and legal
Vehicles and driver licenses
The Washington County Clerk handles vehicle registration and tags. There is a Jonesborough office in the historic courthouse at 100 E. Main Street. Driver’s licenses are issued by the state at other locations. Check office hours and requirements on the Washington County Clerk page. Bring your title, proof of insurance, current registration, and photo ID when transferring.
Property taxes
Jonesborough typically mails tax bills in late September or early October. Taxes are due October 1, with penalties and interest if unpaid after stated deadlines. Rates can change at annual budget meetings, so confirm the current millage and the payment calendar on the Town’s property tax information page. Ask your seller for the most recent tax bill and inquire about any property tax relief programs you may qualify for.
Voter registration and local records
Register to vote through the county or state portals after your move. Deadlines apply before elections. Contact the County Clerk for guidance and local records.
Pets and ordinances
Before move-in, review leash rules, pet licensing, and local animal control contacts. For non-emergency questions and ordinances, reach out to the Town’s Public Safety Department.
Schools and healthcare
Public schools and enrollment
Addresses in and around Jonesborough are served by Washington County Schools, including Jonesborough Elementary, Jonesborough Middle, and David Crockett High School, among others. Enrollment typically requires proof of residency, immunization records, a birth certificate, and prior records. For school listings and district contacts, visit the Town’s schools page, and confirm school assignment by address with the district.
Hospitals and doctors
Johnson City Medical Center is the primary regional hospital for specialty and emergency care. If you need ongoing or specialized care, identify your new primary care provider and transfer records before or soon after moving. Learn about services and locations through Johnson City Medical Center.
Moving logistics in a historic downtown
Parking, permits, and event timing
Historic downtown streets are charming and can be narrow, and events can affect access. Before move day, coordinate short-term loading or truck parking with Public Safety and ask about any scheduled events, including the town’s storytelling-focused festivals highlighted by Tennessee Vacation. If your move overlaps with a big festival weekend, plan for alternate parking or timing.
Movers and storage
For long-distance moves, always verify your mover’s USDOT number and insurance using the FMCSA mover registry. If you need temporary storage during closing or staging, reserve a unit early, especially during peak moving seasons.
Ready to make Jonesborough home?
If you want a smooth, low-drama move, local guidance makes all the difference. For a custom move plan, trusted vendor introductions, and neighborhood-level insight, reach out to Matt Fleenor. We will help you get settled with confidence.
FAQs
Who provides water and sewer in Jonesborough?
- The Town of Jonesborough Water Department manages water and wastewater accounts, and you can start service through the Water Administration page.
How do I start electric service or report an outage in Jonesborough?
- BrightRidge serves the area; find the outage and service contact on the Town’s frequently requested numbers.
How does trash and bulky pickup work in Jonesborough?
- The Town provides weekly curbside service with a town-issued tote, plus scheduled bulky and e‑waste pickups; see the Solid Waste & Recycling page for rules, fees, and scheduling.
Where do I register my car after moving to Jonesborough?
- Visit the Washington County Clerk office in Jonesborough for vehicle registration and tags; details and hours are on the County Clerk page.
How do property taxes work for Jonesborough homes?
- The Town mails bills in fall with an October 1 due date, and rates can change yearly; confirm current deadlines and millage on the property tax information page.
What should I know about moving trucks downtown?
- Narrow streets and events can affect access; coordinate loading and short-term parking with Public Safety and check for festivals that may close streets or limit parking.
