Retirement is supposed to be a time to relax, explore hobbies, and enjoy the perks of a slower pace of life. But for many retirees in Tennessee, that vision doesn’t always match reality—especially in certain towns that fall short on key lifestyle factors. New 2025 data reveals that older adults are skipping over some of the state’s quieter corners in favor of places with better walkability, cultural access, and public transportation.
These 15 towns scored the lowest on our Overall Retirement Score (ORS), a composite index measuring quietness, walkability, vibrancy, cultural amenities, car- and transit-friendliness. While some towns offer peace and natural beauty, they’re often let down by a lack of infrastructure, social opportunities, or accessibility—essentials for a fulfilling retirement. Here’s a closer look at where retirees are saying “no thanks” in the Volunteer State this year.
15. Sweetwater – Limited Senior-Friendly Healthcare
Sweetwater sits between Knoxville and Chattanooga, offering small-town charm but few of the amenities retirees look for today. While the downtown has seen minor revitalization and boasts one of the largest underground lakes in the country (The Lost Sea), it’s not enough to offset other challenges. Healthcare access is limited, with only a handful of primary care providers and the nearest major hospital over 30 minutes away. Public transit is virtually nonexistent, and services catering specifically to seniors are sparse.
For active retirees, Sweetwater can feel isolating. The low walkability score reflects its car-centric layout, and there aren’t many cultural outlets or events geared toward older adults. While it’s quiet, that silence comes at a cost: fewer ways to stay socially and physically engaged. Residents who don’t drive may struggle, and those seeking diverse lifestyle opportunities often look elsewhere.
Sweetwater – ORS 29.72
- Overall Retirement Score: 29.72
- Quietness: 41.47
- Walkability: 30.25
- Cultural amenities: 21.36
- Vibrancy: 24.18
- Car-Friendliness: 71.34
- Transit-Friendliness: 7.81
Sweetwater’s modest charm is clear, but retirees need more than peace and quiet. With low access to transit and cultural life, many older adults may find themselves too cut off from the stimulation and support they want in retirement.
14. Dayton – Struggles with Transit and Engagement Opportunities
Nestled on the western bank of the Tennessee River, Dayton has a proud history—most famously as the site of the 1925 Scopes Trial. But today, its appeal to retirees is limited. The town has relatively low scores across the board, with particularly poor transit access and few public services designed for seniors. Dayton’s infrastructure hasn’t kept up with the needs of a growing aging population.
For retirees without family nearby or who rely on public services, this can be a tough place to age comfortably. It lacks senior centers, arts programming, and strong healthcare infrastructure. While the cost of living is affordable, the trade-off is fewer daily conveniences and a more disconnected social environment.
Dayton – ORS 28.43
- Overall Retirement Score: 28.43
- Quietness: 43.89
- Walkability: 25.32
- Cultural amenities: 18.94
- Vibrancy: 27.65
- Car-Friendliness: 69.78
- Transit-Friendliness: 6.27
Retirees in Dayton are met with a quiet but under-resourced town. While peaceful living is possible, the lack of activities, support, and reliable transit means many older adults move on in search of more complete communities.
13. Jellico – Isolation and Low Community Engagement
On the northern edge of Tennessee near the Kentucky border, Jellico’s mountain setting is undeniably scenic—but that’s where the retiree-friendly perks mostly end. The town’s low vibrancy and cultural scores indicate a quiet, insular community with few resources for older adults. Healthcare services are limited, and major amenities are at least an hour’s drive away.
Jellico may appeal to those seeking solitude, but the isolation can be a major drawback for retirees who value social opportunities and staying active. Local businesses have struggled to stay open, and there’s little investment in arts or community programming. The result is a retirement environment that’s more about getting by than thriving.
Jellico – ORS 26.91
- Overall Retirement Score: 26.91
- Quietness: 47.52
- Walkability: 29.65
- Cultural amenities: 12.46
- Vibrancy: 16.38
- Car-Friendliness: 65.27
- Transit-Friendliness: 5.84
Despite beautiful surroundings, Jellico ranks low for retirees who want more than just quiet. The lack of cultural life and distance from healthcare options make it a less-than-ideal retirement destination.
12. Oneida – Car-Centric and Sparse on Amenities
Tucked in Scott County and bordering the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Oneida is a nature lover’s town. But for retirees, daily life here can be challenging. There’s almost no public transportation, and the town’s layout isn’t walkable. Seniors without vehicles are especially vulnerable to isolation.
Recreational opportunities abound in nearby parks, but for day-to-day needs—like doctor visits, groceries, or social outings—residents rely heavily on driving. Cultural and entertainment options are nearly nonexistent, making it hard to stay connected and mentally engaged. Unless you’re already deeply embedded in the area, it can be a difficult place to start over in retirement.
Oneida – ORS 25.74
- Overall Retirement Score: 25.74
- Quietness: 49.36
- Walkability: 18.42
- Cultural amenities: 14.67
- Vibrancy: 17.93
- Car-Friendliness: 72.95
- Transit-Friendliness: 2.36
Oneida may appeal to outdoorsy retirees with a car, but it doesn’t offer the infrastructure or social support many older adults need to age comfortably and stay engaged.
11. Spencer – Too Quiet, Too Isolated
Spencer sits atop the Cumberland Plateau and offers natural beauty in spades, but not much else for retirees seeking a balanced lifestyle. While its quietness score is relatively high, the town ranks very low for walkability, cultural amenities, and public transportation. Seniors who enjoy being out and about will find themselves driving long distances for even basic errands or healthcare needs.
The lack of senior services or community centers makes it tough for retirees to stay socially engaged. With minimal economic development and few cultural or recreational events, Spencer can feel empty—especially for those used to more active retirement living. It’s a better fit for self-sufficient individuals who value solitude and can manage the logistics of rural life.
Spencer – ORS 24.56
- Overall Retirement Score: 24.56
- Quietness: 58.73
- Walkability: 15.64
- Cultural amenities: 10.28
- Vibrancy: 14.75
- Car-Friendliness: 68.45
- Transit-Friendliness: 0.84
Spencer’s scenic isolation may appeal to a niche crowd, but most retirees will miss the convenience and connection that more robust communities offer.
10. South Carthage – Lacking Services and Walkability
South Carthage is a small town on the Cumberland River, but the charm stops short when it comes to livability for retirees. With low walkability and cultural engagement scores, this area leaves much to be desired for older adults who want convenience, community events, or access to local services. Public transit is almost nonexistent, and most errands require a car.
While the town is calm and affordable, the lack of vibrant senior life makes it a less attractive option. Healthcare access is limited to a handful of clinics, and there’s little in the way of continuing education, group activities, or arts programming—essentials that help retirees stay mentally and socially active.
South Carthage – ORS 23.18
- Overall Retirement Score: 23.18
- Quietness: 38.46
- Walkability: 16.83
- Cultural amenities: 13.59
- Vibrancy: 20.42
- Car-Friendliness: 71.28
- Transit-Friendliness: 1.93
South Carthage may suit low-key lifestyles, but its lack of transit, senior services, and cultural resources puts it low on most retirees’ lists.
9. Celina – Remote Living with Limited Opportunities
Celina is the seat of Clay County and located near Dale Hollow Lake, a favorite summer destination—but year-round retirement living is a different story. While the area is beautiful and peaceful, the amenities needed for everyday senior life are in short supply. There’s little in the way of healthcare access, and cultural life is practically nonexistent.
The town’s low scores in vibrancy and walkability paint a picture of a place where retirees may feel cut off. Transportation is a particular issue; without a car, it’s nearly impossible to get around. While nature lovers might enjoy the setting, most retirees are looking for a blend of tranquility and convenience—something Celina just doesn’t provide.
Celina – ORS 21.64
- Overall Retirement Score: 21.64
- Quietness: 54.82
- Walkability: 19.27
- Cultural amenities: 9.56
- Vibrancy: 15.73
- Car-Friendliness: 69.38
- Transit-Friendliness: 0.52
Celina might win points for scenery, but the lack of day-to-day resources makes it hard for retirees to thrive in the long term.
8. Rutledge – Quiet but Severely Underserved
Located in Grainger County, Rutledge has a classic small-town feel but fails to deliver when it comes to supporting an aging population. The town is quiet, yes—but also very limited in terms of amenities, transit, and cultural life. Retirees who want to stay active or connected may struggle here due to its extremely low walkability and few community resources.
Healthcare facilities are sparse, and cultural outlets—such as museums, classes, or live performances—are few and far between. Without regular activities and transportation options, retirees can feel isolated, especially if they move in without an established support system.
Rutledge – ORS 20.39
- Overall Retirement Score: 20.39
- Quietness: 52.41
- Walkability: 12.84
- Cultural amenities: 8.75
- Vibrancy: 16.28
- Car-Friendliness: 70.92
- Transit-Friendliness: 0.95
Rutledge is ideal for a peaceful retreat but offers too little in terms of social, cultural, or healthcare infrastructure for most retirees’ long-term needs.
7. Erin – Lacking Engagement and Support Services
The small town of Erin, known for its Irish heritage and annual parade, might seem festive at first glance. But outside of that brief moment of celebration, retirees often find little to do. Cultural amenities are very limited, and healthcare services are minimal. The town’s low vibrancy score reflects a quiet community with few opportunities to socialize.
Most errands require driving, and for seniors who can’t or don’t drive, life in Erin can be restrictive. There’s also a noticeable absence of senior-specific services like meal delivery, home care networks, or aging-in-place resources. Erin may be fine for lifelong residents with deep roots, but newcomers may feel out of place.
Erin – ORS 19.27
- Overall Retirement Score: 19.27
- Quietness: 56.94
- Walkability: 14.73
- Cultural amenities: 7.82
- Vibrancy: 13.65
- Car-Friendliness: 67.83
- Transit-Friendliness: 1.26
Erin may offer a peaceful life, but it lacks the programs, healthcare, and mobility options retirees increasingly look for in a retirement destination.
6. Obion – Virtually No Transit, Little to Do
Located in the northwest part of Tennessee, Obion is a quiet agricultural town with limited appeal for today’s retirees. While the car-friendliness score is relatively high, nearly every other metric falls short. Walkability and cultural options are severely lacking, and the transit-friendliness score is almost zero. For retirees without access to a car, that’s a serious hurdle.
Local entertainment, dining, and healthcare options are minimal. There are no senior centers, and few organized activities to help older adults stay engaged. While the town might work for those who prefer total tranquility, the near-complete lack of lifestyle amenities makes it an unappealing choice for most retirees.
Obion – ORS 17.85
- Overall Retirement Score: 17.85
- Quietness: 59.64
- Walkability: 11.28
- Cultural amenities: 6.47
- Vibrancy: 12.74
- Car-Friendliness: 73.41
- Transit-Friendliness: 0.38
Obion’s low scores reflect a place that’s fallen behind when it comes to serving its older population. Retirees looking for a stimulating and well-supported lifestyle are unlikely to find it here.
5. Decaturville – No Walkability, Few Amenities
Decaturville is the county seat of Decatur County, but even with that status, the town offers very little in the way of infrastructure for retirees. It ranks extremely low on walkability, vibrancy, and cultural amenities. Public transit is virtually nonexistent, and most social or recreational opportunities require long drives.
There’s not much in the way of healthcare access beyond the basics, and community events are few and far between. For retirees without strong local ties or the desire to drive everywhere, Decaturville can feel isolating and underwhelming. It’s peaceful, sure—but maybe a little too peaceful.
Decaturville – ORS 16.42
- Overall Retirement Score: 16.42
- Quietness: 61.37
- Walkability: 9.65
- Cultural amenities: 5.84
- Vibrancy: 10.52
- Car-Friendliness: 68.93
- Transit-Friendliness: 0.27
Decaturville is quiet and affordable, but with so little to offer in terms of activity, healthcare, or mobility, it’s not a strong choice for retirees who want to stay active and connected.
4. Gainesboro – Low Access to Everything
Gainesboro sits along the banks of the Cumberland River and is the county seat of Jackson County. Despite its scenic setting, the town’s amenities for older residents are notably limited. Cultural amenities and vibrancy are nearly nonexistent, and the transit-friendliness score is among the lowest in the state. For retirees, that’s a problem.
The town’s quiet nature might appeal to some, but the lack of social infrastructure—including medical care, organized activities, or walkable town centers—makes it hard to age well here. Without a car and a strong support network, it’s all too easy for retirees to feel disconnected.
Gainesboro – ORS 14.96
- Overall Retirement Score: 14.96
- Quietness: 57.23
- Walkability: 13.47
- Cultural amenities: 4.92
- Vibrancy: 11.85
- Car-Friendliness: 69.47
- Transit-Friendliness: 0.43
Gainesboro’s natural beauty can’t make up for what it lacks in services and engagement. For most retirees, it simply doesn’t offer enough to support a fulfilling retirement lifestyle.
3. Sneedville – Very Quiet, Very Isolated
Located in Hancock County near the Virginia border, Sneedville is among the most remote and least-served towns in Tennessee. While quietness is high, walkability, cultural access, and public transit are nearly nonexistent. With one of the lowest vibrancy scores on the list, retirees are unlikely to find many ways to stay engaged or entertained.
Healthcare access is another serious issue. The closest major hospital is over an hour away, and local services are minimal. Combined with very low scores across other key metrics, this makes Sneedville a tough place to retire unless complete solitude is your goal.
Sneedville – ORS 12.58
- Overall Retirement Score: 12.58
- Quietness: 63.52
- Walkability: 8.93
- Cultural amenities: 3.76
- Vibrancy: 9.24
- Car-Friendliness: 65.32
- Transit-Friendliness: 0.18
Sneedville is among the most isolated towns in Tennessee. It’s quiet, yes—but for retirees who need healthcare, transportation, or even a night out, there’s simply too little here to recommend.
2. Huntsville – Extremely Low Accessibility
Huntsville, the seat of Scott County, suffers from many of the same problems as other rural Tennessee towns on this list—but to a greater degree. While it scores well for quietness, nearly every other score is in the basement. Walkability is poor, cultural opportunities are rare, and public transportation is nearly nonexistent. Aging here without a car would be next to impossible.
There’s also very little to do. Senior centers and community events are minimal, and social isolation is a common challenge. Even essential errands like going to the pharmacy or doctor can require long drives. Unless retirees have strong family support nearby, living here can be logistically and emotionally difficult.
Huntsville – ORS 10.47
- Overall Retirement Score: 10.47
- Quietness: 67.84
- Walkability: 7.56
- Cultural amenities: 2.93
- Vibrancy: 8.15
- Car-Friendliness: 64.25
- Transit-Friendliness: 0.12
Huntsville’s lack of basic retirement infrastructure makes it one of the hardest places to age well in Tennessee, despite the peaceful setting.
1. Wartburg – Tennessee’s Least Retirement-Friendly Town
Wartburg tops the list as the worst town for retirees in Tennessee in 2025. Nestled in Morgan County near the edge of the Cumberland Plateau, it is scenic but severely underserved. It scores the absolute lowest on the Overall Retirement Score, and for good reason. While quiet, the town lacks nearly every essential for aging comfortably—walkability, cultural life, social outlets, transit options, and healthcare access.
Retirees living here are likely to find themselves isolated. There are no major hospitals nearby, very limited programming for seniors, and practically zero public transportation. For those looking for more than just silence, Wartburg fails to deliver in nearly every category that matters.
Wartburg – ORS 8.23
- Overall Retirement Score: 8.23
- Quietness: 71.26
- Walkability: 6.34
- Cultural amenities: 1.78
- Vibrancy: 7.42
- Car-Friendliness: 62.18
- Transit-Friendliness: 0.05
Wartburg may be peaceful, but the lack of everything else makes it the worst-ranked Tennessee town for retirees this year.
