Last updated 2026-06-12 ยท MovePlan Editorial Team
No state income tax, mild seasons, and one of the lowest costs of living in the country.
1. Knoxville: Best overall for retirees
2. Chattanooga: Best for outdoors
3. Franklin: Best upscale retirement
4. Nashville: Best for city amenities
5. Maryville: Best small-town pick
6. Crossville: Best value with golf
7. Johnson City: Best mountain value
8. Murfreesboro: Best for growth and access
Tennessee is a rising retirement destination thanks to no state income tax, a low cost of living, mild seasons, and easy access to mountains and lakes. From music-city Nashville to the Smoky Mountain foothills, there is a pace for every retiree. Here are the 8 best places to retire in Tennessee, ranked.