Radon in Tennessee: How Big of a Problem Is It?
If you’ve heard about radon and wonder if it’s something to worry about, you’re not alone. This naturally occurring radioactive gas can pose serious health risks if left unchecked.
But how much of a problem is radon in Tennessee specifically? And does the Volunteer State rank among the states with the highest radon levels in the U.S.? Here's what you need to know.
What Is Radon—and Why Should You Care?
Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that forms when uranium in soil, rock, and water breaks down. You can’t see or smell it, but it often enters homes through cracks in foundations, crawlspaces, and other openings. Outdoors, it disperses easily, but indoors, it can accumulate to unsafe levels, especially in basements or ground-level rooms.
Prolonged radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, right behind smoking. That makes it a serious public health concern, particularly because it's invisible and often goes undetected without proper testing. Luckily, radon can be measured and managed.
Is Radon a Problem in Tennessee?
State officials say, yes—radon gas is a serious problem in the Volunteer State.
Tennessee’s radon levels are higher than the national average in several areas—especially in East and Middle Tennessee—with many homes testing around 4 to 5 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). For reference, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends action if levels are at or above 4.0 pCi/L.
What's more, radon levels in the state can vary from one home to the next, even on the same street. Testing is the only way to know where your home stands.
Why Does Tennessee See Higher Radon Levels?
Tennessee sits on unique geological formations, like the Chattanooga Shale, which contain naturally occurring uranium. When uranium breaks down, it releases radon. Limestone and karst terrain, both common in Tennessee, can also allow radon to travel through soil more easily and enter homes through foundation gaps.
Where in Tennessee Are Radon Levels Higher?
Radon potential varies by region. The EPA classifies 41 of Tennessee’s 95 counties as Zone 1, meaning homes there are more likely to exceed 4.0 pCi/L. Here are some counties with higher-than-average radon levels:
Davidson County (Nashville) regularly shows readings above the action level.
Trousdale County has had some of the highest results reported in the state.
Knox, Anderson, and Blount Counties also show elevated levels, due in part to regional geology.
Even in counties generally considered lower-risk, like Shelby (Memphis), some homes still test above recommended levels. Regardless of your zone designation, every house is different, and there is the potential for radon to enter your home.
How Do Tennessee Radon Levels Compare to Other States?
Tennessee may not top the list, but it ranks solidly among states with higher-than-average radon levels. Nationwide, some of the highest levels of radon in the United States are found in northern areas like Alaska, South Dakota, Pennsylvania, and our neighboring state, Kentucky—often well above 8 or 9 pCi/L. Tennessee’s averages are lower than those, but still higher than the national indoor average.
What Can You Do About Radon Levels in Your Tennessee Home?
The first step is simple: test your home for radon. Whether you're in a new build, an older home, or somewhere in between, testing is the only way to know your radon level. Short-term test kits are widely available, and they're relatively easy to use.
If your results come back at or above the EPA’s action level of 4.0 pCi/L, the next step is mitigation. That may sound like a big undertaking, but it doesn’t have to be. The Radon Guys offer custom radon mitigation systems designed for your unique home. From the initial diagnostic to full system installation, we handle the process with minimal disruption.
Planning to Buy or Sell a Home—Know Your Radon Concentration Levels
While Tennessee doesn’t currently mandate radon testing or mitigation in homes by law, home sellers must disclose any known environmental hazards (that includes radon) to potential buyers. Additionally, many buyers now include radon testing in their home inspection process.
Getting ahead of the issue by testing before listing your home can help make the sale process smoother. And if you do find higher levels, installing a mitigation system can give buyers peace of mind and even become a selling point.
Breathe Easy with The Radon Guys in Tennessee
Radon is more common in Tennessee than many people realize, but it’s also manageable. Testing is straightforward, and mitigation is both effective and reasonably affordable.
Many areas of the state, including the Nashville region, have elevated radon levels due to the local geology. So, don’t leave your health to chance. Test your home today and reach out to The Radon Guys for professional mitigation services and other radon prevention options if you have high levels. We’re happy to walk you through the process.
