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10 Towns in Tennessee Where Social Security Goes a Long Way

The Volunteer State has everything from Southern hospitality and charm to mountains and music.

By Cat Lafuente

Updated Aug. 7, 2025

Tennessee offers more than scenic beauty and rich musical history. For retirees looking to make the most of a fixed income and have a stress-free retirement, it also delivers affordable living and welcoming communities. With no state income tax and a relatively low cost of living, it's a smart pick for stretching every dollar in retirement.

If you're relying primarily on Social Security — about $1,976 for an individual or $3,014 for a couple each month — you'll want a town that balances cost with comfort. Here are 10 Tennessee towns that fit the bill.

Clarksville

Average rent: $1,495
Average home price: $325,597

Located just an hour northwest of Nashville, Clarksville sits along the Cumberland River and is home to Austin Peay State University, which offers discounted courses for those over 65. The cost of living is 7% below the national average, and the college-town atmosphere adds to the appeal.

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Cleveland

Average rent: $1,015
Average home price: $310,987

Cleveland is just north of Georgia and offers a cost of living that's 14% below the national average. About 18% of its population is over 65, and the area includes a charming downtown, wineries, and easy access to the Cherokee National Forest.

Crossville

Average rent: $883
Average home price: $301,698

Nicknamed the Golf Capital of Tennessee, Crossville has nine courses within 20 miles. Health care is accessible, and the cost of living is 10% below the national average. Its small population of just over 12,000 makes it a peaceful place to retire.

Dyersburg

Average rent: $750
Average home price: $166,112

This small city on the Forked Deer River boasts low housing and health care costs, helping it come in at 10% below the national average for cost of living. Dyersburg has a laid-back vibe, Victorian architecture, and is just 80 miles from Memphis.

Johnson City

Average rent: $1,464
Average home price: $293,266

Nestled in the Appalachian Highlands, Johnson City blends mountain scenery with downtown charm. With East Tennessee State University as an anchor, this city of 73,000 offers activities for all interests. Its cost of living is 3% below the national average.

Kingsport

Average rent: $1,300

Average home price: $339,900

In Kingsport, about 25% of residents are over 65, and the city has a robust senior center offering programs and classes. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the area, and with a cost of living 17% below the national average, it's a budget-friendly choice.

La Follette

Average rent: $1,430
Average home price: $389,000

La Follette is a small mountain town near Lake Norris, just 40 miles from Knoxville. With the lowest rent on this list and a cost of living nearly 16% below the national average, it's ideal for retirees seeking tranquility and affordability.

Memphis

Average rent: $1,049
Average home price: $215,000

Memphis offers big-city amenities with a small price tag. From music venues and BBQ joints to excellent health care and senior services, this city of 620,000 has a cost of living 10% below the national average.

Paris

Average rent: $1,175
Average home price: $249,900

Paris features a 70-foot Eiffel Tower replica and a rich arts scene. It's a welcoming community of 10,000 with affordable living and a range of services for older adults.

Union City

Average rent: $950
Average home price: $157,373

Located near the Kentucky and Missouri borders, Union City has a population of 11,000 and a cost of living 12% below the national average. With a vibrant downtown and accessible services, it's a solid pick for retirees.

Bottom line

A secure retirement isn't just about stretching your income — it's also about finding a community that supports your lifestyle. Each of these Tennessee towns offers affordable housing, local charm, and access to services that make life in retirement both manageable and enjoyable.

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Editor's Note: Portions of this story were drafted with assistance from generative AI tools. All final creative decisions, edits, and fact checking were done by human writers and editors.