9 Budget-Friendly Towns in Tennessee for Retirees
Besides hosting America's most visited national park, Tennessee hosts various other delights that will entice visitors to settle there. The Volunteer State charms with rolling hills, tranquil lakesides, and southern hospitality in spades. While iconic cities like Nashville and Memphis attract many tourists and new residents, affordable small towns across the countryside also promise high-quality living without straining the budget.
Whether amid the Appalachians or along the banks of the mighty Mississippi, these lesser-known communities cultivate historic character and community spirit in a low-key manner perfect for retirement. Uncover charming towns in Tennessee that won't have you worrying about finances in the sunset years.
Adamsville
Adamsville gets its name from George D. Adams, a local businessman who operated an inn in the 1840s. This town is a small community of about 2,300 with laid-back rural vibes, perfect for a smooth sail into your sunset years. Retirees can find multiple reasons to lead an active lifestyle in Adamsville, including Shiloh Golf Course. The site is ideal for a relaxed game with friends or family, surrounded by lush landscapes and beautiful vistas. Meanwhile, Maximum Health and Fitness provides modern gym facilities for pensioners who like to stay ahead of their physical health.
Additionally, Adamsville hosts the Buford Pusser Home and Museum, which is ideal for indoor-inclined seniors. The historic home preserves the legacy of Sheriff Buford Pusser, who famously starred in the "Walking Tall" movies and TV series. With a median home price of $369,000, pensioners can afford a retirement home in Adamsville.
Waynesboro
This tiny Wayne County town is known for its rich musical heritage and beautiful outdoor surroundings. Locals maintain a strong sense of community, allowing newcomers to feel welcomed upon arrival. Visitors can also access varied recreational opportunities, starting with exciting aquatic adventures on the Buffalo River courtesy of Crazy Horse Recreational Park. The Waynesboro Municipal Golf Course is an excellent option for retirees too old for strenuous activity, offering a more easygoing way to spend quality time outdoors.
Furthermore, the Waynesboro Senior Center ensures that pensioners don't feel neglected in their vulnerable years, providing curated programs and activities for their well-being. Waynesboro is a relatively affordable town for retirees, with the average price of homes being around $359,000.
Erwin
Erwin is infamously recognized for hosting Tennessee's only public elephant execution, but retirees need not worry about such distasteful spectacles when they move to this Unicoi County village. Today, the town is a tight-knit community with a wealth of outdoor opportunities. Residents embrace the outdoor lifestyle and enjoy fun activities like hiking along the Erwin Linear Trail. Several local outfitters, such as Wahoo's Adventures Nolichucky Outpost, plan remarkable whitewater rafting trips along the raging waters of the Nolichucky River.
However, retirees can visit the Erwin National Fish Hatchery for a less adrenaline-inducing pursuit, featuring a guided tour around the family-friendly facility. The Unicoi County Hospital allows seniors to access reliable medical care promptly without needing to leave the town limits. Also, Erwin's median home value of $275,000 is good news for pensioners with home ownership in mind.
Mountain City
Small-town charm and colorful cultural heritage intertwine in this naturally endowed small town in Johnson County. At a 2,400-foot elevation, Mountain City offers sweeping vistas of the town's lush wilderness. This also means plenty of outdoor opportunities, including hiking and dirt bike riding on the rugged terrain of the 8,600-acre Doe Mountain Recreation Area. More opportunities outdoors await at Ralph Stout Park, which offers a more family-friendly environment. Still, pensioners can break the monotony by visiting the quaint Johnson County Center for the Arts.
The Mountain City community takes pride in its elderly population, providing invaluable care at the Johnson County Sr Citizen Center with health and moral support. Investing in a new home in Mountain City will cost retirees around $349,000, which is significantly below the United States average.
Kingston
Retirees who are all about the outdoor lifestyle will feel at home settling in this tiny village of Roane County. This is a credit to the generous supply of park spaces throughout the town, encouraging residents to lead an active lifestyle. Recreation opportunities are accessible at Kingston City Park, from boating and fishing to picnicking. From the site, you can soak in the beautiful vistas of Fort Southwest Point, a historic military fort from the 19th century that also serves as a park.
However, Kingston is more than outdoors; it offers lovely indoor alternatives, and retirees will enjoy hunting for vintage treasures at Recovered Relics. It also offers multiple assisted-living facilities, including Jamestowne Assisted Living, to offer crucial help in their vulnerable years. Finally, the average real estate price in Kingston is $325,000.
Portland
This bedroom community and Nashville suburb offers the best of both worlds, featuring small-town charm with access to big-city amenities. Residents are friendly and welcoming, an attractive town personality that shows during the Portland, TN Farmers Market. Newcomers can have meaningful and good-natured interactions while shopping for fresh produce. Seniors with a soft spot for locally crafted wines have the opportunity to sample almost 20 varieties at the Sumner Crest Winery, which taste even better when basking in the tranquil atmosphere of Bottom View Farm.
Portland's proximity to Nashville enables quick access to invaluable health and social amenities whenever necessary. Locally, Portland Med provides reliable health assistance to locals. Those planning to buy a home should budget around $400,000, the median housing price.
Church Hill
Relaxed vibes in this Hawkins County gem present the ideal base for retirees searching for a forever home. Church Hill has a delightful mix of outdoor spaces where residents can isolate themselves to enjoy quality alone time. The 440-acre Laurel Run Park stands out for its serene environment, highlighted by a gorgeous waterfall. The town also hosts Bays Mountain Golf Club, which offers pensioners an opportunity to mingle with like-minded peers while enjoying a low-key game of golf.
Seniors who value meaningful social interactions can enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere at the Church Hill Swimming Pool. This recreation hub promotes camaraderie among residents to strengthen the community. Meanwhile, the Church Hill Senior Citizen Center is a helpful resource when aging begins to impact retirees' quality of life. Lastly, the median home price here is $325,000, making it one of the most affordable towns in Tennessee.
Oak Ridge
Situated just 25 miles from downtown Knoxville, settling in Oak Ridge means retirees can benefit from all the superior social amenities and health facilities in its more prominent neighborhood. Despite this, this town maintains a pleasant rural feel with green spaces like Haw Ridge Park. Pensioners have several exciting options for their indoor pursuits, from learning about the town's rich history at the Oak Ridge History Museum to watching community-based art performances in the intimate Oak Ridge Playhouse.
Meanwhile, they can also enjoy quality time with visiting grandkids at the Children's Museum of Oak Ridge, exploring interactive exhibits. The town's charming senior center provides pensioners with affordable accommodation and a friendly, family-like environment. However, the average home price is around $387,000 for those looking to buy.
Norris
Norris provides a peaceful and private environment, making it ideal for seniors who prefer fewer crowds and water-based activities. This small community offers residents diverse recreational options, particularly at Norris Dam State Park. Located on the scenic shores of Norris Lake, it creates a perfect backdrop for relaxing picnics with family and enjoying the stunning water views. For those willing to get wet, local outfitters such as Norris Paddling Adventures offer activities like paddleboarding and boating, enhancing the outdoor experience.
The town's small population, which always seems to know everyone, fosters strong community ties, leading to harmonious living. Finally, Norris has a median home value of $354,000, roughly matching Tennessee's average.
Choosing a town that fits your budget is essential to enjoying a comfortable retirement. Whether in Appalachian villages, on rolling Piedmont meadows, or along mighty riverbanks, these Tennessee towns offer affordable living surrounded by community spirit and natural beauty. With access to excellent regional attractions and low living costs, retirees on a budget can relax and enjoy leisure without financial worries. Although diverse, all these places showcase the scenic charm of the Volunteer State and the warmth of small-town life at affordable prices.
