The Best Places to Retire in Tennessee

Retirement means different things depending on who you ask. Some people want the quiet of a lake or the mountains, while others want the culture of a city. Tennessee has become a retirement favorite because it offers all of that. The state’s mix of affordability, friendly towns, and natural beauty makes it appealing for people planning the next stage of life.

1. Rarity Bay On Tellico Lake

Rarity Bay is often the first place people mention when they talk about retiring in Tennessee. Sitting on Tellico Lake with the Smoky Mountains in the distance, it gives residents the feeling of living in a resort without being far from a city. The community is designed around activity. Golf, tennis, walking trails, and lake access keep people moving, while organized clubs and events make it easy to meet neighbors.

Part of its draw is location. Knoxville is close enough for medical care, shopping, and dining, but far enough away that Rarity Bay still feels like a retreat. The combination of scenery, amenities, and convenience has made it one of the top retirement choices in the state.

People searching for Rarity Bay homes for sale will be pleasantly surprised by its prices too, compared with other areas of the country.

2. Knoxville

Knoxville has a reputation for being lively without being overwhelming. The University of Tennessee keeps the city young at heart with concerts, sports, and cultural programs. At the same time, neighborhoods on the edge of town offer peace and space for those who want a slower pace.

The Tennessee River and the city’s extensive greenway system make it easy to enjoy the outdoors. Downtown has grown into a hub for restaurants, art, and entertainment. Retirees often point to the reasonable housing prices and reliable healthcare as reasons they choose Knoxville.

3. Chattanooga

Chattanooga is one of the most scenic cities in the South. The Tennessee River curves through downtown, and Lookout Mountain creates a dramatic backdrop. Outdoor recreation is a major part of life here, from hiking and biking to kayaking along the river.

The city has also become known for its revitalized downtown. Coffee shops, music venues, and galleries give it a cultural side that blends well with its natural beauty. Retirees who want both city life and outdoor adventure find Chattanooga to be an ideal mix.

4. Franklin

Franklin’s historic character sets it apart. Just south of Nashville, it has a downtown filled with brick sidewalks, boutique shops, and preserved buildings. The town hosts festivals and community events that keep life vibrant, while still maintaining a relaxed pace.

Living in Franklin means enjoying the charm of a small town while being close to Nashville’s hospitals, airport, and cultural attractions. Many retirees find the balance of history, culture, and access hard to resist.

5. Johnson City

Johnson City sits in Northeast Tennessee, close to the Appalachian Mountains and Cherokee National Forest. Retirees here enjoy easy access to hiking, fishing, and mountain views. The slower pace and affordability make it attractive for those who want to stretch their retirement income.

East Tennessee State University adds another layer with cultural programs, concerts, and public lectures. The local healthcare system is well regarded, supported by the university’s medical school. Johnson City offers a quieter, mountain-centered retirement option.

6. Memphis

Memphis offers a retirement full of culture. Known worldwide for its music, the city still thrives on live performances and festivals. Beale Street remains a landmark, while museums and theaters add depth to the city’s identity.

The healthcare network is extensive, and the cost of living is lower than in many other large cities. For retirees who want an urban lifestyle with history, culture, and food all close at hand, Memphis is a strong choice.

7. Cookeville

Cookeville provides small-town living in the Upper Cumberland region. It is surrounded by lakes, waterfalls, and state parks, which makes it a favorite for retirees who enjoy the outdoors. Burgess Falls and Center Hill Lake are just two of the nearby attractions that keep residents exploring.

The town itself is welcoming, with a downtown full of restaurants, coffeehouses, and shops. Tennessee Tech University brings concerts and events, giving Cookeville more variety than most towns its size. Its location between Nashville and Knoxville adds convenience without sacrificing the slower pace of small-town life.

Tennessee’s Appeal

Retirees are choosing Tennessee for more than one reason. The cost of living is lower than in many other states, there is no state income tax, and the climate makes it possible to enjoy the outdoors year-round. Healthcare is accessible, particularly in the larger cities.

The state’s diversity of choices is what makes it stand out. Some will prefer planned 55 and older communities like Rarity Bay, while others will want the culture of Memphis or the history of Franklin. Tennessee has a place for nearly every version of retirement.