Stretching from the Appalachian Mountains to the Mississippi River, Tennessee offers me as a retiree a rich tapestry of living options across its three distinct regions: East, Middle, and West.
This guide examines 28 notable communities that showcase the state’s diverse appeal, from mountain retreats to vibrant music cities.
I’ve evaluated each town based on six essential criteria: Cost of Buying a Home, Healthcare Access, Weather, Cultural Activities, Crime Rate, and Airport Proximity.
Using a straightforward A+ to D grading scale, I compare these locations only against other Tennessee communities, providing context-specific insights.
My assessments consider regional factors such as the milder winters of the western region, the four distinct seasons of the mountains, and the unique cultural offerings that make Tennessee special.
1. Athens
- Cost of Buying a Home: A
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B-
Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Athens offers small-town charm with easy access to larger cities. Housing costs remain remarkably affordable, with options ranging from historic homes to modern developments. Starr Regional Medical Center provides reliable healthcare services. The climate features mild winters and comfortable spring and fall seasons. Tennessee Wesleyan University adds cultural vitality, while the annual Friendly Pumpkin Festival highlights community spirit. Strong local policing maintains impressive safety statistics. Athens is 45 to 60 minutes from Chattanooga’s airport.
2. Bristol
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: A-
Known as the “Birthplace of Country Music,” this border city blends Tennessee and Virginia cultures. Real estate offers good value despite the town’s growing popularity. Bristol Regional Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services. Four distinct seasons include snowy winters and mild summers. The Rhythm & Roots Reunion festival and NASCAR racing at Bristol Motor Speedway create year-round excitement. The community maintains better-than-average safety levels. Tri-Cities Airport is conveniently located within 30 minutes.
3. Cleveland
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B
Located between Chattanooga and the Smokies, Cleveland combines accessibility with natural beauty. Housing prices remain reasonable for a growing city. Tennova Healthcare Cleveland provides quality medical services. The climate offers mild winters and extended spring and fall seasons. Lee University enriches the cultural scene, while the nearby Cherokee National Forest provides outdoor recreation. The city maintains solid safety records despite recent growth. Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is accessible within 45 minutes.
4. Collierville
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B-
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: A
This upscale Memphis suburb maintains a distinct small-town atmosphere. Housing costs reflect the area’s desirability and amenities. Multiple healthcare options exist within the greater Memphis area. Hot summers and mild winters characterize the climate. The historic town square and numerous community events create a strong sense of place. Excellent city planning and police presence maintain very good safety standards. Memphis International Airport is easily accessible within 25 minutes.
5. Columbia
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: B
Just south of Nashville, Columbia offers historic charm without Franklin’s premium prices. Housing remains surprisingly affordable for a growing Middle Tennessee community. Maury Regional Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services. The climate features typical Middle Tennessee seasons with mild winters. The growing arts district and annual Mule Day celebration preserve local heritage. Crime rates align with similar-sized towns. Nashville International Airport is accessible within an hour’s drive.
6. Cookeville
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: B-
Situated on the Cumberland Plateau, Cookeville offers a perfect blend of outdoor recreation and urban amenities. Real estate provides good value with diverse housing options. Cookeville Regional Medical Center serves as a major regional healthcare hub. The elevation moderates summer temperatures while winters remain mild. Tennessee Tech University contributes to a vibrant cultural scene. Crime rates remain typical for a college town. Nashville International Airport is approximately 80 minutes away.
7. Crossville
- Cost of Buying a Home: A-
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: B
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: C+
“The Golf Capital of Tennessee” welcomes retirees with affordable living and recreation options. Housing costs remain attractive, particularly in golf communities. Cumberland Medical Center provides reliable healthcare services. The plateau location offers the state’s most comfortable summer temperatures. Multiple golf courses and the Cumberland County Playhouse anchor recreational activities. The community maintains good safety statistics. The nearest major airport is Nashville International, about 100 minutes away.
8. Fairfield Glade
- Cost of Buying a Home: B-
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: B
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: C+
This planned resort community on the Cumberland Plateau caters specifically to retirees. Property values reflect the resort amenities but remain reasonable for a golf community. Medical facilities are nearby in Crossville. The elevation provides notably cooler summers than lower regions. Multiple golf courses, lakes, and tennis facilities create an active lifestyle. The gated community environment maintains exceptional safety standards. Nashville International Airport is approximately 110 minutes away.
9. Franklin
- Cost of Buying a Home: D+
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: A-
Historic charm meets modern luxury in this sophisticated Nashville suburb. Housing costs rank among Tennessee’s highest due to the area’s popularity. Williamson Medical Center provides excellent care with Nashville facilities nearby. The climate features traditional seasons with mild winters. The vibrant downtown hosts numerous festivals celebrating the area’s rich history and music scene. Strong community focus maintains impressive safety records. Nashville International Airport is accessible within 35 minutes.
10. Gallatin
- Cost of Buying a Home: B-
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: A-
This lakeside community north of Nashville balances growth with small-town appeal. Housing prices remain moderate despite Nashville’s influence. Sumner Regional Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services. The climate offers typical Middle Tennessee seasons. Old Hickory Lake provides recreation while the historic downtown hosts regular events. The community maintains solid safety statistics. Nashville International Airport is approximately 35 minutes away.
11. Germantown
- Cost of Buying a Home: C
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B-
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: A
This affluent Memphis suburb offers high-end amenities and excellent services. Housing costs reflect the area’s upscale nature. Multiple healthcare options exist within minutes. Hot summers and mild winters characterize the climate. The Germantown Performing Arts Center and numerous festivals provide cultural enrichment. The city consistently maintains among the lowest crime rates in Tennessee. Memphis International Airport is conveniently located within 25 minutes.
12. Greeneville
- Cost of Buying a Home: A-
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B-
Andrew Johnson’s hometown offers rich history and mountain views. Real estate remains surprisingly affordable in this historic community. Greeneville Community Hospital provides quality healthcare services. Four distinct seasons include colorful falls and mild winters. Historic sites and the Niswonger Performing Arts Center anchor cultural activities. The small-town atmosphere helps maintain good safety records. Tri-Cities Airport is accessible within 75 minutes.
13. Hendersonville
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: A-
This lakeside Nashville suburb attracts retirees with its natural beauty and amenities. Housing costs reflect the area’s popularity but vary by neighborhood. Multiple healthcare options exist within the greater Nashville area. The Old Hickory Lake location moderates summer temperatures. Parks, marinas, and community events provide year-round activities. Strong city services maintain excellent safety standards. Nashville International Airport is easily accessible within 30 minutes.
14. Johnson City
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: A
Mountain views and medical excellence define this Tri-Cities hub. Housing options remain reasonable for a regional center. Johnson City Medical Center leads comprehensive healthcare services. Four seasons include snowy winters and mild summers. East Tennessee State University enhances cultural offerings and learning opportunities. The city maintains average safety levels for its size. Tri-Cities Airport is conveniently located within 25 minutes.
15. Jonesborough
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B+
Tennessee’s oldest town charms with historic architecture and storytelling tradition. Real estate offers good value in this historic setting. Major medical facilities are minutes away in Johnson City. Four distinct seasons include moderate winters. The National Storytelling Festival and historic district create unique cultural appeal. The small-town environment maintains very good safety records. Tri-Cities Airport is accessible within 40 minutes.
16. Kingsport
- Cost of Buying a Home: A-
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: A-
This planned industrial city offers surprising charm and affordability. Housing costs remain among the most reasonable for a city its size. Holston Valley Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare. The mountain location brings four distinct seasons. The Kingsport Fun Fest and Bays Mountain Park provide year-round activities. Crime rates remain typical for a mid-sized city. Tri-Cities Airport is located within 30 minutes.
17. Knoxville
- Cost of Buying a Home: B-
- Healthcare Access: A+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A
- Crime Rate: C+
- Airport Proximity: A
The Gateway to the Smokies combines urban amenities with mountain access. Housing prices vary significantly by neighborhood. Multiple major hospitals provide excellent healthcare options. The valley location moderates mountain weather extremes. The University of Tennessee and World’s Fair Park anchor numerous cultural offerings. Urban challenges bring higher crime rates in some areas. McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville is accessible within 20 to 25 minutes.
18. Lebanon
- Cost of Buying a Home: B
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: A-
This historic town offers affordable living near Nashville’s amenities. Real estate provides good value despite proximity to the capital. Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital provides quality healthcare services. The climate features mild winters and warm summers. The Wilson County Fair and Cedar City attract visitors year-round. The community maintains better-than-average safety statistics. Nashville International Airport is accessible within 30 minutes.
19. Loudon
- Cost of Buying a Home: B
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: B
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B+
Situated along Tellico Lake, Loudon attracts retirees with its planned communities and water recreation. Housing options include both established neighborhoods and new retirement developments. Fort Loudoun Medical Center provides reliable healthcare, with Knoxville hospitals nearby. The lake moderates local temperatures year-round. Water activities and local events create an active lifestyle. The well-planned communities maintain excellent safety records. McGhee Tyson Airport is accessible within 45 minutes.
20. Maryville
- Cost of Buying a Home: B
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: A
Mountain views and small-town charm characterize this Smoky Mountain gateway. Housing costs balance affordability with desirable location. Blount Memorial Hospital provides comprehensive healthcare. The foothills location offers milder temperatures than higher elevations. Maryville College enhances cultural life while the mountains provide recreation. Strong community bonds help maintain excellent safety records. McGhee Tyson Airport is conveniently located within 15 minutes.
21. Morristown
- Cost of Buying a Home: A
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: B-
This lakeside community offers affordable living between Knoxville and the Tri-Cities. Housing remains highly affordable with lake views available. Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare System provides reliable medical care. The location offers mild winters and comfortable summers. Cherokee Lake provides recreation while the historic downtown offers unique shopping. Crime rates remain average for a city its size. The nearest major airports are McGhee Tyson and Tri-Cities, both about 70 minutes away.
22. Mount Juliet
- Cost of Buying a Home: B-
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: A+
Modern amenities and rapid growth define this Nashville suburb. Housing costs reflect the area’s popularity but remain reasonable. Multiple healthcare options exist within the greater Nashville area. The climate features typical Middle Tennessee seasons. Shopping centers and community events provide entertainment options. Strong city services maintain impressive safety records. Nashville International Airport is exceptionally convenient at just 10 minutes away.
23. Murfreesboro
- Cost of Buying a Home: B
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: B+
This historic battlefield town balances growth with heritage preservation. Housing offers diverse options at moderate prices. Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital provides comprehensive care. The central location experiences typical Middle Tennessee seasons. Middle Tennessee State University contributes to cultural life while Stones River National Battlefield draws history enthusiasts. The city maintains average safety levels despite rapid growth. Nashville International Airport is accessible within 40 minutes.
24. Oak Ridge
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B
The Secret City combines scientific heritage with outdoor recreation. Real estate remains reasonably priced for a technology hub. Methodist Medical Center provides quality healthcare services. Ridge and valley terrain moderates temperature extremes. The American Museum of Science and Energy and outdoor recreation venues offer diverse activities. Strong community engagement helps maintain good safety records. McGhee Tyson Airport is accessible within 45 minutes.
25. Paris
- Cost of Buying a Home: A
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: C+
Home to the world’s second-largest Eiffel Tower replica, this charming town offers affordable living. Housing costs rank among the state’s most reasonable. Henry County Medical Center provides reliable local healthcare. The climate features mild winters but warm summers. Kentucky Lake access and the World’s Biggest Fish Fry festival create unique attractions. The small-town atmosphere maintains strong safety standards. Nashville International Airport is about 110 minutes away.
26. Sevierville
- Cost of Buying a Home: B-
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B
Dolly Parton’s hometown serves as gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains. Housing prices balance tourism influence with residential needs. LeConte Medical Center provides quality healthcare services. Mountain breezes moderate summer temperatures. Shopping outlets, mountain entertainment, and national park access create endless activities. Tourist presence affects crime rates but they remain manageable. McGhee Tyson Airport is accessible within 45 minutes.
27. Signal Mountain
- Cost of Buying a Home: C
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: B
This scenic mountain community above Chattanooga offers stunning valley views. Housing costs reflect the prestigious location and limited availability. Multiple healthcare options exist minutes away in Chattanooga. The elevation provides cooler summers and moderate winters. Mountain trails and arts communities create an active lifestyle. The affluent community maintains exceptional safety standards. Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is accessible within 30 to 35 minutes.
28. Tullahoma
- Cost of Buying a Home: A-
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B-
This affordable community offers easy access to Tims Ford Lake recreation. Housing costs remain attractive with diverse options available. Tennova Healthcare provides quality medical services. The Highland Rim location moderates summer temperatures. The lake, local wineries, and annual 41A Music Festival provide entertainment options. The community maintains good safety statistics. While the regional airport serves private planes, Nashville International Airport is about 90 minutes away.
Sources:
- fbi.gov
- bestplaces.net
- niche.com
- census.gov
- prnewswire.com
- freeholdcommunities.com
- ucr.fbi.gov
- odphp.health.gov
