8 Best Towns In Tennessee For Retirees

Tennessee continues to draw retirees with its blend of scenic landscapes, mild climate, and wallet-friendly policies. With no state income tax on retirement income, including Social Security, pensions, and IRA distributions, many retirees find it easier to make their savings last. But beyond the numbers, it is the small towns that truly make Tennessee shine for retirement living. Places like Crossville, known for its golf courses and laid-back lifestyle, and Maryville, with the panoramic view of the Chilhowee Mountain, offer peace, community, and plenty to do. If you are looking for a slower pace without giving up quality amenities, these eight towns across the state make a compelling case for calling Tennessee home.

Crossville

With a population just over 12,000, Crossville is a welcoming town perched atop the scenic Cumberland Plateau, offering retirees a laid-back lifestyle surrounded by outdoor recreation and small-town hospitality. Often referred to as the “Golf Capital of Tennessee,” Crossville and Cumberland County boast nine championship golf courses, including the beautifully maintained Stonehenge Golf Club, known for its rolling fairways, panoramic views, and courteous staff. Nature lovers can spend the day at Cumberland Mountain State Park, a serene escape built around Byrd Lake in the 1930s. The park’s mix of hardwood forest, clear streams, and the Bear Trace Golf Course makes it a favorite for both walkers and golfers. Just outside town, the Obed River provides a dose of adventure with its whitewater runs and rugged gorges, ideal for kayakers and hikers seeking dramatic scenery. Additionally, downtown Crossville features the historic Palace Theatre, a local gem that hosts concerts, classic movie nights, and community events in an intimate setting.

For day-to-day needs, retirees benefit from the area’s well-rounded infrastructure. Cumberland Medical Center has a broad range of healthcare services, while several senior living options, such as Cumberland Ridge Assisted Living, support aging adults with tailored care that includes help with daily activities, home-cooked meals, social programs, and full housekeeping. Crossville’s housing market remains relatively affordable, with the average home price around $295,242 as of May 2025, as per Zillow.

Paris

Paris is a peaceful corner of West Tennessee that has small-town ease and rich cultural offerings. Retirees looking to settle into a slower pace of life without sacrificing recreation or convenience will find Paris a great fit, especially with homes priced at an average of only $198,876 as of mid-2025, making homeownership accessible on nearly any retirement budget. Additionally, healthcare needs are well covered at West Tennessee Healthcare Henry County Hospital, a trusted facility with a range of specialties and services. For retirees seeking a supportive environment, Charter Senior Living of Paris has personalized assistance, engaging programs, and a compassionate team focused on dignity and independence.

Outdoor living is front and center here. Eiffel Tower Park, the town’s signature gathering spot, features a striking replica of the iconic French landmark. Formerly known as Memorial Park, the area is packed with family-friendly features like shaded walking paths, a splash pad, sports courts, playgrounds, and picnic spots, which are ideal for afternoon strolls or meeting friends over lunch. Just a short drive away, Paris Landing State Park hugs the Tennessee River and has scenic water views, summer barbecues, boating, fireworks shows, and peaceful natural trails. For those who appreciate local history, Cavitt Place houses the Paris-Henry County Heritage Center. This elegant mansion-turned-museum celebrates regional culture through rotating exhibits and special events while also serving as a venue for community gatherings.

Maryville

Tucked into the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Maryville is full of scenic beauty with the comforts of modern living, making it a desirable retirement destination. This peaceful town benefits from mild temperatures throughout much of the year, inviting seniors to enjoy the outdoors in every season. The town is home to around 32,000 people, and with 18.3% of the population aged 65 and above, it is clear that retirees feel right at home here. Though the median home price sits at approximately $429,900 as of May 2025, a little higher than the state average, the town more than makes up for it with its strong community infrastructure and abundant amenities. Blount Memorial Hospital delivers comprehensive healthcare services, while Asbury Place Maryville ensures older adults have access to high-quality Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. For retirees looking to stay engaged, the Everett Senior Center is a standout facility. Catering to adults over age 50, it has a wide range of activities from watercolor and oil painting to ping pong, card games, and social clubs.

There are a lot of places for retirees to go and have a good time. In the outdoors, Chilhowee Mountain has panoramic views and is a favorite for hikers and wildlife watchers. Just a short walk from downtown, Bicentennial Greenbelt Park is a tranquil retreat with walking trails, lush greenery, and river access, ideal for daily walks. For a fun day, Blue Goose Farm and Vineyards is a charming, family-run property just outside the city limits. It lets visitors sample locally grown muscadines, berries, and apples while soaking up peaceful rural views.

Morristown

If you are drawn to a lifestyle filled with nature and convenience, Morristown may be just what you need. This welcoming town gives retirees an active yet easygoing pace of life with access to Panther Creek State Park. The park features 17 hiking trails, more than 15 miles of mountain biking paths, equestrian routes, boat ramps, and ample fishing spots, perfect for memorable days with visiting grandchildren. Just outside town, Briarwood Ranch Safari Park offers a unique experience with a four-mile scenic auto safari through rolling pastures populated by animals from six continents. Considered a retail hub, the College Square Mall serves as a regional hub with major department stores, over 50 specialty shops, and plenty of dining options. Simultaneously, the town keeps retirees engaged with several annual events like the Morristown Strawberry Festival, Craft Beer Festival, and Mountain Makins Festival, a celebration of Appalachian folk arts with live music, traditional food, and artisan vendors.

With a median home price of approximately $258,980 as of May 2025, Morristown allows retirees to settle down affordably while still enjoying the good things in life. Medical needs are well-covered by the Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare System, which includes modern facilities and specialized care. Seniors seeking supportive living arrangements will find comfort at Regency Retirement Village of Morristown. In addition, transportation around town is easy with Lakeway Transit. Three fixed bus routes conveniently connect the downtown district to most neighborhoods and major shopping destinations, giving retirees the freedom to explore without needing to drive.

Union City

Union City might not always get the spotlight it deserves, but retirees who land here love the spirit of this town. With the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge nearby, mornings often start with crisp air and the sight of bald eagles gliding above Reelfoot Lake. This protected area serves as an important stopover for migratory birds, turning simple strolls into moments of quiet awe. Those craving a bit more stimulation can spend entire afternoons at the Discovery Park of America. This sprawling museum complex blends science, history, art, and innovation, from towering dinosaur replicas to vintage war machines and space exhibits. For live entertainment in town, the Masquerade Theatre brings Broadway-style productions to the historic Capitol Theatre, a 1927 gem listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Retirees who like a dash of social energy will enjoy the small but lively downtown. Main Street is lined with inviting cafés, boutique shops, and family-owned restaurants that make each errand feel like a mini outing.

Health concerns are well covered here. Baptist Memorial Hospital-Union City is centrally located and equipped for both routine and emergency needs. For those looking to trade home maintenance for peace of mind, Etheridge House Senior Living has supportive housing with a strong sense of community. Despite all this, Union City remains surprisingly affordable. As of May 2025, the median home listing price stands at just $254,800, freeing up funds for travel and hobbies.

Waynesboro

Waynesboro’s retirement appeal is undeniable, with just under 2,300 residents, yet it still manages to meet essential needs. Wayne Medical Center is located right in town. Seniors seeking extra assistance can find it at Loving Care Assisted Living Facility. Zillow lists the average home value at just $165,917, a rarity for a town with such a relaxed, rural pace.

Waynesboro’s natural surroundings also shine. The Buffalo River Trail Ride brings peaceful days of horseback riding across rolling trails, with camping spots and clean bath houses for extended stays. Meanwhile, Little Creek Ranch gives guests a scenic ride through woodlands and fields, with experienced guides and calm, well-trained horses. It is a great way to take in the landscape at an easy pace. Golfers will appreciate Waynesboro Municipal Golf Course, a laid-back 9-hole layout with a clubhouse, grill, and pro shop.

Pulaski

Retiring in Pulaski means living near wide fields, green ridgelines, and a pace of life that values simplicity. One of Pulaski’s most treasured landmarks is Milky Way Farm, built by candy magnate Frank Mars. Spread across over a thousand acres, it features rolling pastures, stone barns, and a long legacy of champion livestock and thoroughbreds. Today, it is a favorite stop for tours and scenic drives. For history buffs, the Trail of Tears Memorial Interpretive Center presents powerful exhibits on the Cherokee experience, focusing on two routes that passed through the area. Original artwork and firsthand stories add depth to the visit. If the day calls for something lighter, Big Creek Winery provides a laid-back setting to share a bottle with friends. Its selection spans over two dozen fruit and grape wines, crafted locally in Giles County.

Medical needs are well taken care of in town. Southern Tennessee Regional Health System - Pulaski has inpatient care, emergency services, and specialists. Just a few minutes away, Ivy Crest Assisted Living LLC supports seniors with round-the-clock care in a setting that balances support with independence. With a median home price of around $248,299, Pulaski makes retirement living approachable.

Savannah

Savannah sits along the Tennessee River and brings together quiet charm and natural beauty. With a population just over 7,000 and an average home price of $269,900, it is a place where retirees can enjoy both space and affordability without sacrificing access to essential services. Hardin Medical Center, a full-service hospital, anchors the town’s healthcare system and provides everything from emergency care to outpatient treatment.

Outdoors, Pickwick Landing State Park draws residents with its wide range of activities. Known for excellent catfish and bass fishing, the park also includes public swimming beaches, wooded trails, and a scenic golf course. A short drive from the center of town, it is an easy escape for a peaceful afternoon. Closer to home, Wayne Jerrolds River Park runs along the water’s edge, complete with a walking path, shaded picnic spots, and a boat ramp for spontaneous time on the water. The town’s character also comes alive in its historic district. A walk through downtown Savannah reveals 42 preserved homes and public buildings, each telling part of the area’s story.

If retirement dreams include mild seasons, wide open spaces, and a strong senior community, Tennessee checks every box. Whether it is waking up near peaceful lakes, exploring small-town streets lined with local shops, or staying close to trusted hospitals, the Volunteer State delivers. For those ready to call Tennessee home, consider planning a short stay before making the leap. If narrowing down the options feels overwhelming, you can feel confident choosing any of these eight towns. Each town has its own unique pace, and all are well-suited for the next chapter of life.