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When most people imagine their dream retirement destination, Nashville might not immediately come to mind. Yet Tennessee’s vibrant capital city is an option worth considering for financially savvy retirees who plan to ramp up their travels now that they have the time.
With its expanding international airport, reasonable cost of living, and unlimited cultural experiences, Nashville provides a rare combination of major metropolitan amenities with small-town Southern charm. The city offers the perfect blend of home-based comfort and convenience for adventurous retirees.
Key Takeaways
- Nashville International Airport (BNA) will offer 114 non-stop destinations by summer 2025, with $4.5 billion invested in airport development.
- Median monthly housing costs of $1,475 are significantly lower than other major metro areas, making it budget-friendly for retirees.
- Tennessee’s lack of state income tax means no taxes on pensions, retirement income, or Social Security benefits.
- Nashville is home to over 1,350 arts establishments, offering world-famous entertainment and cultural activities.
Travel Accessibility
Nashville International Airport (BNA) is a major selling point for travel-loving retirees. By summer 2025, the airport will expand to offer 114 non-stop destinations, positioning Nashville as a major regional travel hub. This expansion means more competitive airfares, flexible scheduling, and the ability to reach dream destinations without connecting flights.
The airport’s transformation is backed by a $4.5 billion investment designed to match Nashville’s explosive growth. The multi-phase expansion, scheduled for completion in 2029, will modernize facilities, increase capacity, and enhance the overall travel experience in Nashville. For frequent travelers, these improvements mean shorter lines, better amenities, and more efficient travel days.
Beyond air travel, Nashville’s central location is at the intersection of multiple major highways, making road trips to destinations like the Great Smoky Mountains, Atlanta, or Chicago easily manageable.
Cost of Living and Affordability
One of Nashville’s most compelling advantages is how its reasonable cost of living frees up a significant retirement budget for travel.
Average monthly costs in Davidson County, which includes Nashville:
- Housing: $1,475
- Food: $717
- Transportation: $1,198
Housing Costs
Nashville offers substantial savings compared to metropolitan areas where similar amenities might cost double or triple. The city’s cost of living sits just 5% above the national average—reasonable for a major metro area with extensive amenities. Even better, Nashville only costs 20% more than other Tennessee cities, making nearby suburbs an attractive option for budget-conscious retirees.
Note
Davidson County’s median home value of $386,600 is significantly lower compared to counties with other similarly sized cities with comparable lifestyle offerings. For retirees downsizing or relocating from higher-cost areas, the housing savings alone could fund several major trips a year!
Tax Friendly
Tennessee’s tax structure provides significant tax advantages for retirees. The state imposes no income tax, immediately increasing take-home pay. More importantly, pensions, retirement income, and Social Security benefits face no state-level taxation, meaning substantial savings that free up travel money.
However, retirees should factor in Tennessee’s combined state and local sales tax of 9.56% and property taxes averaging about $726 a month, though these are often offset by income tax savings.
Health Care
Health care costs in Nashville run slightly higher than the national average, providing some cost containment savings for retirees. The city boasts 39 hospitals and over 2,000 health care establishments, achieving an impressive health care access score of 70. The city is home to major medical systems like Vanderbilt University Medical Center, HCA Healthcare, and Ascension Saint Thomas.
Lifestyle Considerations for Retirees
Nashville’s appeal extends far beyond practical advantages, offering a lifestyle that keeps retirees engaged between travel adventures. With winter temperatures averaging around 50 degrees and summer temps in the 80s, the area offers ideal conditions for those looking to escape harsh winters without enduring the intense heat of retirement destinations like Florida or Arizona.
Music City’s reputation is well-known, but newcomers might be surprised to learn how much there is to do in Nashville. With over 1,350 arts establishments—double or triple that of similarly sized cities—retirees enjoy constant access to world-class entertainment. From the iconic Grand Ole Opry and Country Music Hall of Fame to Broadway’s honky-tonks and intimate local venues, there are endless options for fun.
The cultural scene extends beyond country music through Nashville’s thriving theater district, numerous art galleries, and year-round festivals. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate city parks like Centennial Park and Bicentennial Capitol Mall, while the city’s strategic location provides easy access to hiking trails and the Smoky Mountains just hours away.
Nashville’s suburban communities add another layer of appeal. Areas like Franklin, Brentwood, Mount Juliet, Forest Hills, and Oak Hill offer quiet residential settings while maintaining easy access to the city’s amenities and airport—the perfect balance of peaceful retirement living with urban conveniences and travel access.
Other Things To Consider
Population Growth and Development
Nashville’s popularity creates both opportunities and challenges for retirees. The city’s population has increased by 6.4% since 2022, reaching 686,513 residents. This rapid growth enhances the city’s offering while also driving up costs.
Traffic and Transportation
A growing population means increased traffic congestion, especially during rush hours. Retirees should consider this when choosing where to live in the city, especially if they want quick access to the airport.
Climate
While Nashville’s moderate climate appeals to most, the city experiences all four seasons, including occasional winter weather and snow.
Future Infrastructure
Ongoing development projects may cause temporary inconveniences but promise long-term benefits. Prospective retirees should weigh current conditions against planned improvements.
The Bottom Line
Nashville represents a unique opportunity for travel-loving retirees seeking a vibrant, culturally rich home base with exceptional travel accessibility and reasonable costs. The city’s expanding airport, favorable tax environment, and reasonable cost of living create compelling financial and lifestyle incentives for retirees wanting to maximize their budget.
For couples or individuals considering Nashville, an exploratory visit is essential. Experience different neighborhoods, test the airport commute, and sample the culture firsthand. If your retirement priorities include travel accessibility, rich local entertainment, and tax advantages, Nashville deserves serious consideration.
