Kingsport

Kingsport is a city located in the northeastern part of the U.S. state of Tennessee. It sits in Sullivan County along the South Fork Holston River and is part of the Tri-Cities metropolitan area, which also includes Johnson City and Bristol.

Kingsport began as a planned industrial community in the early 20th century and was incorporated in 1917. Its growth was closely tied to the Tennessee Eastman chemical complex, with facilities expanding in the 1920s and beyond, helping establish Kingsport as a center of manufacturing and employment in the region.

The city sits in a river valley with rolling hills nearby and has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers, cool winters, and year-round precipitation.

The local economy has historically centered on chemical manufacturing, led by Eastman Chemical Company, and includes healthcare, education, retail, and light industry. The city hosts research and development activities associated with its corporate and regional bases.

Kingsport is served by Kingsport City Schools, including Dobyns-Bennett High School. The area is also served by Sullivan County Schools and nearby higher-education institutions, such as Northeast State Community College, which serves the region.

Interstate highways and other major roads connect Kingsport to the broader region, and the Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI) provides air service for the area.