Best Places to Live in Tennessee for Retirees
If your idea of retirement includes stunning mountain vistas, world-class music, and a cost of living that makes your savings stretch further, then Tennessee top of your list. The Volunteer State offers a blend of Southern hospitality and financial freedom that is simply unmatched. Yes, it even beats Florida and Texas.
The biggest benefit is financial, an important consideration for many. Tennessee is a true tax haven for retirees! The state has NO income tax, which means your Social Security benefits, private pensions, and distributions from your 401(k)s and IRAs are completely untouched by state taxes. But that’s not all.
Tennessee combines no income tax with some of the lowest property taxes in the nation. This is often offset by a higher state and local sales tax, butfor retirees with large distributions and fixed expenses, the property and income tax savings are usually a hugenet positive!
Now let’s take a look at some of the best locations to retire based on your way of living.
Disclaimer: This content is for entertainment purposes only. Some information may change over time and by region, and your unique situation may benefit from a different solution, so confirm these details with a professional.
For Outdoor Enthusiast: Mountains, Lakes, and Active Living
For the active retiree who views retirement as an opportunity for endless hiking, boating, and fishing, East Tennessee offers a breathtaking backdrop and vibrant cities.
| Best For | City/Region | Key Benefits | The Practical Reality (Considerations) |
| Mountains & City Access | Knoxville | Home to the University of Tennessee, offering a youthful vibe, lifelong learning opportunities, and top medical centers. It’s the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. | While affordable, traffic around the university and during football season can be heavy. |
| Riverfront Vigor & Walkability | Chattanooga | Known as the “Scenic City,” it boasts an excellent network of pedestrian bridges, riverwalks, and trails. It has a strong community focus on wellness and outdoor sports (biking, climbing). | Its popularity is driving up housing costs in the most desirable downtown/riverfront areas. |
| Golf & Low Cost | Crossville | Dubbed the “Golf Capital of Tennessee,” this area sits on the scenic Cumberland Plateau and has some of the lowest housing costs. It’s home to major active-adult communities like Fairfield Glade. | It is more isolated than the larger metro areas, requiring a drive for specialized medical care or major airports. |
The Culture & Convenience Seeker: Music, Arts, and Amenities
If you crave cultural amenities, world-class dining, and top-tier healthcare, Tennessee’s major metro areas offer a high quality of life without the cost of coastal cities.
Nashville (The Music City)
- The Vibe: The heart of country music, offering unmatched entertainment, dining, and cultural attractions.
- Benefits: Home to the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, ensuring access to world-class medical facilities. Its thriving job market (for those seeking part-time work) and international airport provide great convenience.
- Drawbacks: It is the most expensive city in Tennessee, and housing costs and traffic are significantly higher than the state average.
Franklin (Nashville Suburb)
- The Vibe: An upscale, historic suburb known for its charming, walkable Main Street, boutique shops, and beautiful neighborhoods.
- Benefits: Offers the convenience of Nashville (20 minutes away) combined with a highly safe environment and an incredible quality of life.
- Drawbacks: Considered a luxury suburb, with some of the highest home prices in the state.
Memphis (Bluff City)
- The Vibe: A powerhouse of American music history (Blues, Rock ‘n’ Roll) and famous for its legendary BBQ and lively cultural scene (Beale Street, Graceland).
- Benefits: Offers a significantly lower cost of living than Nashville and provides excellent healthcare access.
- Drawbacks: Parts of the metro area struggle with higher crime rates, making due diligence on specific neighborhoods essential.
Community Spotlight: Resort-Style Retirement
Tennessee’s commitment to active adult living shines through in its premier planned communities.
- Tellico Village: Located southwest of Knoxville on the beautiful Tellico Lake, this community is known for its three championship golf courses, extensive boating amenities, and over 200 social clubs. It offers true resort-style living with spectacular water and mountain views.
- Del Webb Southern Springs (Spring Hill): Located south of Nashville, this community is a perfect choice for those who want a brand-new, amenity-rich 55+ environment with a strong focus on fitness, including tennis and pickleball.
Scenic and Financial Beauty Await!
Tennessee truly offers a sweet spot for retirees: a tax-friendly financial foundation bolstered by low property taxes, combined with a vast array of lifestyle choices. Whether you want to spend your days hiking the Appalachian trails near Knoxville, enjoying the music scene in Nashville, or relaxing on the lake at Tellico Village, you can design a retirement here that is both active and affordable.
