Why You Should Retire in Tennessee

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View of the Cumberland River and Downtown Nashville, an attractive place to retire to Tennessee.
Nashville-Cumberland-River

6 minute read

What You’ll Gain From Reading This Article: Readers gain valuable insights into retirement options in Tennessee, detailing the attractions, cost of living, and 55+ communities.


If you’re thinking about moving, many cities and towns are worth calling home in Tennessee. Whether you want to live in a city like Memphis or you want a small town like Jonesborough, you’ll find the ideal place to settle down in the Volunteer State. Tennessee has plenty of things to do, and here are five reasons why we think you’ll love it!

The Downtown Nashville skyline at dusk.

We’re all feeling the pinch when we go to the grocery store. Prices are up all over the country, but in Tennessee, things aren’t as bad as in more populated states. According to Best Places, prices are 10.1% lower in Tennessee than in the rest of the U.S. 

The housing prices are also more affordable, making finding a new home less stressful. You’ll find several 55+ communities in Tennessee, such as Album Indian Lake in Hendersonville. This community offers apartments for 55+ homebuyers interested in downsizing.

If you prefer to live in a house, then you’ll be shocked at all the options. Consider Tellico Village, Fairfield Glade, or Del Webb Lake Providence. These communities offer attractive homes, various on-site amenities, and easy access to larger metropolitan areas.

The medical care is also top-notch. You’ll have your choice of doctors, and most 55+ communities offer easy access to hospitals.

Aerial view of Downtown Chattanooga and the Tennessee River.

Tennessee enjoys all four seasons without the extreme temperature changes that come with them. Spring brings lovely flowers, and the soil is ideal for your garden. If gardening isn’t for you, then you can sit back and relax as your retirement community hires others to handle the lawn work for you. 

In the summer, the temperatures can get hot. However, there are very few days when temperatures are above the mid 90s, so you don’t have to worry about overheating. Many communities also offer pools for you to cool off.

Fall brings stunning color changes to the leaves. Many residents of Tennessee make it an annual tradition to drive into the mountains and see the leaves falling.

Finally, winter can be chilly, but it’s extremely rare for the temperatures to dip below zero. There is some snow, but it’s not a daily occurrence you have to deal with. It’s just enough to make a few snowballs with the grandkids before it melts. Many retire to Tennessee because they like to enjoy all four seasons.

The Old Mill at sunset in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

Now that you’re retired, or perhaps thinking about it, you’ll probably be looking for ways to fill your time. While you’ll probably find plenty of things to do, you can also visit the local tourist attractions.

Gatlinburg is a quaint mountain town with lots to keep you entertained. You can walk the Sky Bridge, ride an aerial tram, or spend your day shopping in some of the many unique stores.

You can also take a trip to Memphis and catch a show. It’s known as the birthplace of rock and roll. Who knows, you may discover your next favorite artist among the many talented musicians who call Memphis home. If you’re more interested in country music, then you should put Nashville as one of your top places to visit.

Finally, there’s Dollywood. There are few better places to take your grandkids for the day to make some memories. It’s also an excellent place to visit on your own, and there are some great deals available year-round.

Aerial view of Pigeon Forge and Sevierville, Tennessee.

One of the best parts of moving to Tennessee is the tax rates. If you’re still working, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s no income tax in Tennessee. This means more money in your pocket. You’ll still be responsible for federal taxes, of course, but when compared to many states with extremely high tax rates, moving to Tennessee just makes sense.

Once you hit age 65, you may even qualify for a property tax relief program. If you’re buying property in Tennessee, this could be a huge weight lifted off your wallet. 

Another tax that you won’t be responsible for paying is estate taxes. This tax was discontinued in 2016, and the residents of Tennessee have not mourned its passing. Taking care of your property will be much easier knowing you don’t have to deal with the estate taxes, and no one else will either.

The autumn sunrise over the Newfound Gap in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Now that the kids are grown, you no longer have to worry about dropping them off at soccer practice, racing to their next chorus concert, or struggling to find the time to shop for the perfect pair of cleats. Your time may not be fully your own, but you’ve definitely got more time on your hands. For many retirees, this means slowing down.

Tennessee features a laid-back culture. Even the larger towns have a more small-town feel than some cities, such as New York or LA. You can take your time visiting places without feeling pressured to hurry up. And if you want something more fast-paced, the thriving city centers in Tennessee can be very exciting!

If any of this appeals to you, then why wait? Contact us today, and we’ll set you up with an expert real estate agent who can assist you with finding the perfect new home. They can set up tours with local 55+ communities, recommend movers, and even walk you through all the dreaded paperwork that comes with buying a new home.

You can reach us by filling out our contact form or calling us at (800) 928-2055. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Discover what’s next.

To learn more information or connect with a real estate expert, contact us today.

Can you spot the $207,744 difference between these identical homes?

Financing is the difference!

Get the details in The 62+ Loan Homebuyers Guide.

55places Mortgage is a joint venture between Mutual of Omaha Mortgage and 55places.com.
Details here.

We're here to help! (800) 928-2055

Call us to speak with a customer service representative.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get Weekly Updates

I agree that 55places and its affiliates, partner providers or agents may call, text, or email me about my inquiry, which may be made with automated means. I understand that my consent is not a prerequisite for buying a property. I may revoke my consent at any time by contacting optout@55places.com. Message/data rates may apply. I also agree to 55places.com’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

The downtown city skyline at dusk on the Cumberland River in Nashville, Tennessee.

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View of the Cumberland River and Downtown Nashville, an attractive place to retire to Tennessee.

Why You Should Retire in Tennessee

Whether you want to live in a city like Memphis or you want a small town like Jonesborough, you’ll find the ideal place to settle down in the Volunteer State. Tennessee has plenty of things to do, and here are five reasons why we think you’ll love it!

About 55places

We’re changing the way people 55 and older are searching for their perfect next place. With a national network of hand-selected real estate experts, plus comprehensive information, unbiased content, and on-the-go insight about thousands of communities across the country, we’re a trusted resource paving the way from here to home. Whether you’re interested in a low-maintenance single-level residence, an active lifestyle or age-qualified community, an intimate enclave, or anything in between, we can help you make your next move the best one yet.

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