7 Most Affordable Towns to Retire in Tennessee

Tennessee is becoming an increasingly popular retirement destination for multiple reasons. With its friendly tax policies, low cost of living, and affordable housing, retirees need not worry about depleting their savings prematurely. Furthermore, the beautiful natural scenery and ample green spaces offer an ideal backdrop for a laid-back lifestyle in one's later years.

But there's so much more that makes Tennessee an attractive place to retire. The Volunteer State is home to America's most visited national park, the Great Smoky Mountains, and boasts a plethora of state parks offering endless outdoor opportunities. Additionally, its culture-rich communities are known for their trademark Southern hospitality. If you're considering settling down in Tennessee after your career, these charming towns are worth considering.

Adamsville

Nicknamed the "Biggest Little Town in Tennessee," Adamsville offers retirees a generous mix of opportunities and a strong sense of community. The Buford Pusser Home and Museum plays a crucial role in local history, showcasing original furnishings, firearms, cars, photos, and memorabilia from Buford Pusser, the legendary figure depicted in several "Walking Tall" TV series and movies. Moreover, Maximum Health and Fitness provides modern gym facilities to help retirees maintain their physical health.

For outdoor recreation, a relaxing game of golf at Shiloh Golf Course allows one to enjoy the scenic outdoors among rolling hills and lush greenery while socializing with peers. Situated just 3 miles from the Tennessee River, Adamsville is also ideal for those interested in riverine adventures. The real estate market is encouraging for seniors looking to buy property, with the median home value around $269,900.

Brentwood

This small city in Williamson County is part of the Nashville metropolitan area, offering convenient access to all the amenities of the big city while maintaining a rural and laid-back atmosphere suited for seniors. The abundance of park spaces ensures plenty of outdoor activities to keep retirees active, from the expansive Crockett Park to the more intimate Owl Creek Park.

Brentwood also features several indoor entertainment venues perfect for family visits. For instance, Brentwood Skate Center offers fun on roller skates in a family-friendly environment. Similarly, Sky Zone Trampoline Park provides joyful experiences for visitors of all ages, fostering meaningful social interactions. However, Brentwood's median home listing price of $1.6 million may strain some budgets.

Cookeville

From beautiful state parks and a vibrant historic district to captivating art and cultural events, Cookeville is chock-full of experiences sure to keep retirees entertained throughout the year. This charming community is renowned for hosting Cummins Falls State Park, a remarkable natural space spanning almost 300 acres, with a 75-foot waterfall as its centerpiece. New residents can explore the town's colorful history by visiting several historical sites, including the Cookeville History Museum. A walk through its quiet corridors reveals a diverse collection of artifacts that chronicle the progression of Cookeville over the years.

Retirees have various hangout spots to choose from, where they can catch up with peers over some of the town's finest craft brews and spirits. This includes Tennessee Legend Distillery, which produces whiskeys, moonshines, and cream liqueurs. For pensioners dreaming of owning a home, Cookeville makes it easier with a median home price of $389,000.

Erwin

With the Nolichucky River winding through the town, Erwin is an excellent retirement option for those who enjoy river-based adventures. Conveniently, numerous local outfitters, such as Wahoo's Adventures Nolichucky Outpost, are available to take retirees on adrenaline-pumping river excursions, featuring whitewater rafting. The riverbanks are adorned with lush greenery, creating serene outdoor spaces like the Rock Creek Recreation Area, a haven for hiking and camping enthusiasts. However, there's more to the town than its lovely outdoors to keep those who are more indoor-inclined busy.

For starters, a laid-back tour of Stegall's Pottery allows pensioners to admire intricate pieces and witness the sophisticated techniques that go into creating them. Elsewhere, the Union Street Taproom offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for connecting with peers over a fresh glass of beer. Erwin also ranks as one of the most affordable places to retire in Tennessee, with real estate prices averaging $314,900.

Gallatin

Gallatin is a town brimming with history, dating back to the early 19th century. It boasts several historical markers that attest to its colorful heritage, including the 1813 Trousdale Mansion. This historic residence, which belonged to former state governor William Trousdale, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Palace Theater is another significant site that has been a staple in the Gallatin community. Since 1913, townsfolk have been gathering at this historic venue to enjoy Broadway shows, musical performances, and other theater productions.

The town is even more appealing to the ardent outdoorsman. It features multiple parks offering a variety of recreational opportunities, including Bledsoe Creek State Park. Covering almost 170 acres, the park offers at least 6 miles of hiking trails and 50 campsites to satisfy all your adventure needs. The cherry on top is Gallatin's median home price of about $469,900, which is considered a good deal, all things considered.

Waynesboro

As part of Nashville's Big Back Yard, Waynesboro boasts a rich musical heritage and has produced several recognized talents in the state. This small community of about 2,500 invites retirees to enjoy the benefits of small-town living, with idyllic green spaces and endless outdoor adventures. Crazy Horse Recreational Park is an excellent spot for family outings, offering activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and camping. Similarly, Waynesboro City Park and Pool entices locals with its fun aquatic adventures.

Retirees who prioritize physical wellness have numerous options for staying active and healthy. They can hit the trails or partake in various sports at the Waynesboro Sportsplex, or seek membership in one of the several town gyms to benefit from the services of a professional trainer, including at Workout Anytime Waynesboro. Finally, properties here have an average cost of $214,500.

Mountain City

The charm of a small town doesn’t get better than in the adorable community of Mountain City. Serene natural spaces and friendly local interactions define this Johnson County town, inviting newly retired individuals to establish a forever home. Outdoor adventures are plentiful at Doe Mountain Recreation Area, which beckons hikers, mountain bikers, ATV enthusiasts, and other thrill-seekers to explore its rugged terrain covering 8,600 acres. Residents regularly gather at the Heritage Hall Theater to enjoy various family-friendly live performances, fostering interactions and strengthening the ties among community members.

There's also a charming art scene in Mountain City, centered around the Johnson County Center for the Arts. This facility offers a relaxing indoor attraction, where retirees can drop in to view various artistic creations by local and regional artists. Lastly, potential homeowners will be pleased to know that the median house value in Mountain City is $362,500, which is near the national average.

Wrapping Up

Finding an affordable town to retire in Tennessee eases many concerns for pensioners regarding home ownership and daily expenses. The destinations mentioned above demonstrate that one does not have to look far and wide to find a pleasant community within one's budget. Moreover, these places offer the benefits of small-town living, including a strong sense of community, a relaxed rural atmosphere, and numerous outdoor activities to ensure a high quality of life in your golden years.