Last updated 2026-06-12 ยท MovePlan Editorial Team
Historic main streets, mountain views, and no state income tax to slow you down.
1. Franklin: Best overall
2. Jonesborough: Best historic charm
3. Maryville: Best for mountain access
4. Sevierville: Best Smoky Mountain base
5. Bell Buckle: Best tiny-town charm
6. Greeneville: Best value
7. Crossville: Best for golf and retirees
8. Dandridge: Best lakeside town
If big-city Nashville is not your speed, Tennessee small towns deliver mountain scenery, walkable historic downtowns, and a genuinely low cost of living, all with no state income tax. Here are the 8 best small towns in Tennessee, ranked for charm and livability.