Retirement is the time when people can finally enjoy the fruits of your labor and relax. For some, this means moving to a new location that offers better weather, amenities, or simply a change of pace.
And if you are from the USA, what better place to retire than the Volunteer state of Tennessee? With its stunning mountains, valleys, and rivers, not to mention the friendly people and great food, it’s no wonder that retirees are flocking to Tennessee.
In this article, we will be discovering the top 5 places where you can retire in Tennessee. So, if you are close to your retirement and are looking for the perfect place to call home, then read on for more detailed information.
Why should you consider Tennessee for retirement?
When it comes to retirement, everyone has different priorities and ideas of what the perfect retirement looks like. But there are some reasons why Tennessee makes a great choice for retirees, such as:
The cost of living is relatively low compared to other states
There is no state income tax
There is no estate tax
The climate is mild, with four distinct seasons
There are plenty of activities and amenities for retirees
All these things make Tennessee an attractive choice for retirees. Once you retire, you will most likely have limited income, so a low cost of living is always a bonus. And not having to pay state income tax or estate tax can also save you a lot of money.
Now let's find out the top 5 places to retire in Tennessee!
1. Chattanooga
Chattanooga is a city located in the south-eastern part of the state and has a population of around 170,000 people. It is situated between the Appalachian Mountains and the Cumberland Plateau, which means that there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking.
The city also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with plenty of museums and galleries to explore. And if you are a foodie, then you will be spoilt for choice with the many restaurants serving up delicious southern cuisine.
Chattanooga is also home to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, which means that there are plenty of opportunities for lifelong learning.
The cost of living in Chattanooga is around 5% lower than the national average, and the median home price is $153,000.
2. Franklin
With rich historical roots dating back to the Civil War, Franklin is a small city located in Williamson County, just south of Nashville. It has a population of around 80,000 people and is filled with antebellum homes, quaint shops, and tree-lined streets.
Franklin is also home to many parks and green spaces, as well as being located close to the scenic Harpeth River. The city has a thriving arts and culture scene, with plenty of events and festivals taking place throughout the year.
Not to mention, the people of Franklin are incredibly friendly and welcoming, which makes it a great place to retire. Even the crime rate is low, making it a safe place to live.
The housing price is 7% lower than the national average making it affordable for retirees. Also, transportation is around 4% lower than the average.
3. Germantown
Germantown is a little more expensive than the other locations listed above. However, it offers a lot of special characteristics that justify the higher price tag. The city also has twelve well-kept parks and several fitness centers and lush greenery areas.
The short 25-minute drive to Memphis is hardly a distance at all, but you'll still find plenty to do in Germantown. The Performing Arts Centre and library are always active, so you won't miss living in a bigger city.
With a population of only 40,000 people, Germantown is one of the smaller places on this list. However, it's still a great place to retire for those who want city amenities without all the hustle and bustle.
You will find a mixture of old and new houses in Germantown with the median price being around $250,000. Also, cultural diversity cannot be ignored! You will find American Indians, African Americans, Alaskan natives, Asians, Caucasians, and more in Germantown.
4. Nashville
One of the most popular and well-known cities in Tennessee is Nashville, the state capital. It's also the largest city on this list with a population of around 660,000 people.
Nashville is well known for its music scene and is often referred to as the "Music City". There are plenty of live music venues, as well as museums and other attractions related to music.
The city is also located close to several state parks, which are great for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. And if you are a fan of country music, then you will want to retire in Nashville!
Although it is the most expensive city on this list, the cost of living in Nashville can still be quite reasonable if you are on a fixed income.
The best part about Nashville is that you will find a lot to explore in the city. There are different kinds of cuisines, art galleries, and music concerts to keep you busy! Nashville also has an international airport, so it's easy to travel in and out of the city.
5. Smith County
And last but not the least, we have Smith County which is located in north-eastern Tennessee. With a population of around 20,000 people, it's one of the smaller counties on this list.
Smith County, located in Middle Tennessee, is home to some of the most breath-taking vistas in the entire state. The community has a lovely view of the Cumberland River, making it a perfect retirement location. Smith County is made up of three distinct towns (Carthage, Gordonsville, and South Carthage), and each town offers its unique charm.
The biggest advantage of living in Smith County is that it is well-connected to other bigger cities such as Nashville, Chattanooga, and Knoxville. So, you can easily travel to these cities whenever you want without having to live in a big city.
Conclusion
Each place has its unique charm and offers something different for retirees. So, take your pick and enjoy your retirement in Tennessee! Make sure to do your research and explore all the different options before making a final decision.
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