6 Best Small Towns To Retire In Tennessee

Tennessee, located in the southeastern United States, is a picturesque and vibrant state. The alternatives are limitless, ranging from tasty whiskey to the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains. Tennessee entices travelers from all over with its low cost of living, good healthcare system, and fantastic tax incentives. To this purpose, many individuals consider it a perfect place to retire. The state features beautiful tiny communities with excellent amenities, ideal for a tranquil retirement.

Bolivar

While it may not have the beautiful splendor of Pigeon Forge, Bolivar is an excellent location for purchasing your dream retirement house. With a median housing value of $97,400, which is half the national average, settling down here will not cost you a fortune. Once you’ve moved in, you can participate in a range of activities that are popular among seniors. Spend the day touring the town’s historic sites, such as Bolivar Court Square and North Main Street Historic District. Over 100 historic structures, including the Western State Psychiatric Hospital, allow you to discover the town’s unique history. Even a quick trip around town reveals rustic houses with Greek and Italian architectural influences.

With its pleasant environment, retirees frequently spend their nights on the town square. This region has several shops, restaurants, and marketplaces, making it easy to perform errands. For example, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, the Farmer’s Market sells fresh fruits, vegetables, and other items suitable for home cooking. After a day of exploration, return to your ideal home in Bolivar for a relaxing night. The town’s relaxing atmosphere and family-friendly culture create a sense of safety and security, making it ideal for retirees. In addition, there are several hospitals nearby, guaranteeing that medical aid is available whenever needed.

Winchester

A short drive away from the towns of Chattanooga and Hunstville, Winchester offers the best of both worlds. Home to less than 10,000 people, this tranquil town is a reprieve from urban hustle and bustle. The town’s vibrant culture draws in retirees, and nearly 20% of the town is over 65 years old. To this end, Oldham Theatre and Hundreds Oaks Castle are places you’re sure to love. Opened in the 1950s, Oldham Theatre showcases vintage decor and entertaining movies that you can watch with your loved ones. On the other hand, Hundreds Oaks Castle is an iconic landmark and one of the few remaining castles in town. Returning to the past, the downtown area is perfect for people of all ages. Senior citizens can find a range of lovely stores, such as Wishing Well Antiques & Gifts, which is perfect for some home decor.

Aside from the town itself, Tim Ford State Park offers a magnificent setting for outdoor activities. With 3,500 acres of natural area, you may join the rest of the local retirees and spend the day fishing for tasty bass. Because of the variety of sites and establishments, you’ll always be within walking distance of a store, restaurant, medical center, or police station. This makes settling down much more comfortable because you won’t have to travel large distances every day. Even if you require services from the city, Chattanooga is only an hour away! Finally, the Winchester Municipal Airport makes air travel convenient, so you’ll never feel constrained in town.

Crossville

Known as the “Golf Capital of Tennessee,” retirees from across the country are drawn to the amazing golfing opportunities in Crossville. As the county seat of Cumberland County, the town boasts nine top golf courses offering holes suitable for golfers of all skill levels. Bear Trace at Cumberland Mountain is one of the most popular, with 18 holes of year-round golf. Well-maintained bunkers, fairways, and greens make it a fantastic place to enjoy your retirement. Surrounding the golf course is the stunning Cumberland Mountain State Park, filled with natural beauty. Stay active during retirement by hiking, fishing, or swimming in the park’s scenic surroundings. When you return to town, visit one of the local wineries or bars, which come alive with seniors by nightfall. Stonehaus Winery is a popular choice where you can enjoy homemade wines, desserts, and other treats.

Activities and attractions are plentiful. Crossville combines small-town charm with endless fun. Reflecting its strong golf scene, 20% of the town’s 12,000 residents are over 65. So, whatever your interests, you’re likely to find friends to join you. Plus, the cost of living is about 18% below the national average, leaving you plenty of money for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Dayton

For those of you looking to save money, drive from Germantown to the affordable town of Dayton. The county seat of Rhea County, this town of 7,000 provides all the amenities you’ll need without the high prices. For example, an average house in Dayton costs $106,000, which is 45% below the state average. So, from buying a lovely house to having a beer at Monkey Town Brewing Co., you won’t have to spend a lot. The small town also features a variety of fun spots that seniors can enjoy with the entire family. Crystal Lanes Bowling is a great example where kids can have a party, roll a strike, and enjoy snacks. Or, enjoy some fresh air at Ponds and Plants, where you can relax and admire the beautiful garden and the people in it.

Whether it is bowling or dinner, Dayton offers a sense of security throughout its streets. With one of the lowest crime rates in the state, everyone you meet will be trustworthy and friendly. So, despite a slightly lower percentage (16%) of senior citizens, calling your family to town will always be a blast. An abundance of great hotels, such as the Holiday Inn Express and Best Western, are the perfect places your family can stay while they visit.

Humboldt

Humboldt County is just as affordable as Dayton but has many more retirees, making it the ideal respite for like-minded locals. More over 2,000 of the town’s 7,800 people are 65 years or older. The entire town, from the neighborhoods to downtown, exudes serenity and peace, like a retirement hideaway. As a result, numerous pleasant places may be found throughout. Explore the local sites like Herbie Town or the Strawberry Festival Exhibit, both of which include unique stories and histories.

Stay healthy by taking a nature hike to Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge or Pickwick Landing State Park. Alternatively, you can end your evenings with some delicious wine from the Crown Winery. The possibilities are limitless when you’re surrounded by pals. The data also point to a healthy retirement in Humboldt, which has dozens of medical facilities within a few miles of the city. With an average crime rate and a favorable tax policy, you may live comfortably in this little town.

Germantown

If Winchester’s atmosphere is too calm, Germantown provides a bustling alternative for retirees. With a safe and healthy population of over 41,000 people, there is always someone to enjoy roaming the streets, dining out, or shopping in the busy downtown. Thanks to tax-friendly policies, retirees can participate in a variety of activities that suit their lifestyle. For example, customers can have gourmet dinners at Southern Social, which is recognized for its great service and wonderful desserts. Fort Germantown, a Civil War redoubt with model cannons, educational displays, and a peaceful open space are also located in the region. Gardening is another popular interest, particularly at Oaklawn Garden, a 6-acre green space with botanical gardens where visitors may care for plants, meet other gardeners, and learn how to establish their own garden. Overall, Germantown provides a diverse range of retirement activities.

In addition to its incredible opportunities, Germantown is one of the most costly options on this list. Housing rates are approximately 75% higher than the state average, which may be a bit annoying. Regardless of the price, Germantown is a fantastic area to live. Residents characterize the area as clean and safe, which is just what you’ll want in your retirement years. Furthermore, more than 21% of the people are above the age of 65, indicating that everyone values a relaxed and comfortable lifestyle. The best aspect is that Memphis is directly next door, so you can always travel to the big metropolis if necessary.