8 Towns in Tennessee that Are Ideal for Seniors

Picture retiring in a state with zero income tax, where the median home price is about 20% below the national average, and which is often ranked among the states with the lowest cost of living in the United States. Plus, while Tennessee’s climate can be a tad on the hotter side, its natural beauty is unassailable, especially as you move from west to east, and from relatively flat landscapes right on to the heart-melting grandeur of the Smokies. If you are considering retiring in the Volunteer State, the following are 8 Tennessee towns ideal for seniors.

Pigeon Forge

Retiring in Pigeon Forge means spending your golden years in peaceful surroundings surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the Great Smoky Mountains (Pigeon Forge is only 5 miles from Great Smoky Mountains National Park). The town has about 6,300 residents and offers the small-town atmosphere that often comes with close-knit and genuine experiences. As many would agree, for retirement living (not just a vacation), a remote town far from civilization can present unnecessary challenges. Luckily, Pigeon Forge is just off Interstate 40, a major east-west highway that runs through the state’s three largest cities. Because of this, Pigeon Forge is roughly 40 minutes from Knoxville by car, providing convenient access to essential amenities, including medical services. With 37% of the population being seniors (those aged 55 and older), the town’s social life is likely to be lively rather than lonely.

Winchester

Life in Winchester feels warm and unhurried, with numerous events and sights that make the year fly by. If you're retiring and love movies, the Oldham Theater is a charming spot you'll find yourself visiting often. For those craving fresh air, the quiet mornings with dew and the cheerful songs of birds, Tims Ford State Park is nearby. Covering 3,546 acres, this park offers many delights for seniors, but its most famous feature is the stunning lake, considered one of the most scenic in the state. Besides occasional days on Tims Ford Lake’s shimmering waters, retirement in Winchester means engaging in a social scene where up to 35% of residents are fellow seniors.

Loudon

Loudon has a rich history dating back to the late 1700s, making it feel like a journey into the past. Exploring historic sites is enjoyable, but to truly immerse yourself in Loudon’s history, including its Cherokee heritage, consider the Downtown Loudon History Tour. This tour visits several sites, many from the 18th century. For a romantic afternoon, the nearby Tennessee Valley Winery offers a delightful experience with its quality wines, such as Cabernets and Muscadines, set against stunning mountain views. Additionally, Loudon's proximity just about a 30-minute drive to Knoxville, Tennessee’s third-largest city, and the fact that approximately 34% of its residents are seniors, highlight its strong appeal for retirees.

Germantown

Germantown is home to about 40,600 residents. Retiring here, therefore, involves becoming part of vibrant communities and well-maintained neighborhoods. Relatively affluent, with highly-rated schools, Germantown boasts one of the most educated populations in Tennessee. This is supported by the fact that about 33% of the town’s population holds master’s degrees or higher. This suggests that the guy down the street will be relatively well-informed. And since seniors make up 34% of the town’s population, there will be several opportunities to plan memorable adventures with like-minded individuals. For outdoor activities, you will enjoy strolling through Oaklawn Garden and exploring its beautiful grounds. Finally, Germantown Performing Arts Center is a great place for community gatherings and local festivals, including the famous Fried Chicken Fest.

Crossville

Nestled on the tranquil and scenic Cumberland Plateau, Crossville is situated in a region renowned as a natural wonderland. Living here offers opportunities to explore rocky wildlife parks and enjoy various outdoor adventures. Cumberland Mountain State Park, featuring Byrd Lake, provides an excellent weekend getaway for nature lovers. The Cumberland County Playhouse is a key highlight of local entertainment, known for its well-coordinated and often extraordinary productions. From thought-provoking plays to hilarious performances that will leave you in stitches, each visit offers a unique experience. Located about half an hour from Cookeville and an hour from Knoxville, access to larger city amenities is convenient. Additionally, one-third of Crossville's residents are seniors, and the median home values are significantly below the national average.

Fayetteville

Fayetteville, with its charming setting and diverse offerings, is a must-consider destination for seniors in Tennessee. The scenic Elk River provides stunning views and lively activities that uplift the spirit. Residents can enjoy teeing off at Pebble Creek Golf Club or taking hay rides at Lyon Family Farms. The town is well-equipped with various medical facilities, including Fast Pace Health Urgent Care, and for more advanced care, Huntsville, Alabama—about 40 minutes away—is accessible. About 34% of Fayetteville's residents are seniors aged 55 and older, offering ample opportunities for meaningful conversations and social connections. Expect a warm, small-town atmosphere where friendliness is a way of life.

Lawrenceburg

Originally called home by James Vaughan, Lawrenceburg is renowned as the birthplace of Southern Gospel music. Vaughan is celebrated for teaching the South how to sing and is often referred to as the "Father of Southern Gospel Music." The town has become a center for this genre, featuring attractions like the Vaughan Gospel Music Museum, where visitors can learn about its origins. As a senior, you might enjoy camping trips to David Crockett State Park, roasting marshmallows with friends or grandchildren beneath the stars and moon. Additionally, 29% of residents are seniors facing similar challenges and aspirations. With a median home value of just $119,800, retiring here could be very economical.

Farragut

Named for a Civil War admiral, Farragut strikes the perfect balance between small-town charm and big-city amenities — offering the best of both worlds. Home to about 23,000 residents, this Tennessee jewel is vibrantly lively and brimming with adventure opportunities. Seniors will especially want to bring binoculars and a paddle for birding and floating around Fort Loudoun Lake. The town features several parks and green spaces, and it's only about 17 miles from Knoxville, making it roughly a 21-minute drive to any essential amenities. For shopping, you might not need to go elsewhere, including Knoxville. Farragut's Turkey Creek is a shopping paradise where you can enjoy an entire weekend of shopping, dining, and quality time with friends or family. Occasionally, the 17-acre Founder's Park at Campbell Station offers a delightful spot for walking the dogs.

The Takeaway 

Aside from its tasty scenes and easy-going residents, Tennessee is reputed to be among the most tax-friendly states in the country. The Volunteer State does not ask for a dime in income tax, a fact that ensures seniors keep the whole of their Social Security benefits. As to specific places to retire, this Southern state offers a world of options, including Pigeon Forge, which is just 5 miles from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gray, Winchester, and Signal Mountain, which provides access to the scenic Rainbow Lake Wilderness Trail.