There are lots of little towns like this in east TN im sure you can find something affordable and nice. Its an absolutely beautiful area nature wise, and eveyone is pretty nice because of the southern hospitality. Alot of raging Republicans concentrated in certain areas but its whatever they are intitled to their opinions and don't cuase alot of noise. Same for the outher side, noone tooooo crazy. The very tip of East TN is a little crazier In the tri state area for sure. A small town on the left or right side of knoxville would be my suggestion. Marryville, Lenoir City, Morristown, and Oak Ridge sound like about what you are looking for. And are probably the best options