Cost of Living in Tennessee [2025]
Whether you are interested in visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the country, or learning more about the Birthplace of Country Music, Tennessee has lots to offer both visitors and residents. Unsurprisingly, Tennessee is highly sought-after by both visitors and those looking to relocate to a beautiful, historical, and bustling state.
If you're considering making the move to Tennessee, you might be wondering what the cost of living is like. Luckily, we’ve done the research so you don’t have to. Keep scrolling for all the details on how to budget for buying or renting in Tennessee.
Cost of Living in Tennessee
What Is the Cost of Living in Tennessee?
According to our database, the cost of living in Tennessee is 9.85% lower than the national average, making it the 5th cheapest state in the nation.
According to MIT, the cost of living in Tennessee is currently around $4,316 a year for a single individual with no children. But what does that really mean for renters? Let’s break down how much it costs to live in Tennessee by looking at different expenses.
Where Is Cost of Living Highest in Tennessee?
The most expensive city in Tennessee is Robertson County, where the cost of living is 10.15% higher compared to the state average and 0.7% lower than in the rest of the U.S.
Where Is Cost of Living Lowest in Tennessee?
The cheapest major city in Tennessee is Cleveland, with a cost of living being 7.93% lower compared to the state average and 17% lower than the national average.
How Much Is Rent in Tennessee?
According to our rental estimate database, as of October 2024, the average overall rent for the state of Tennessee was $1,171 a month. Let's look at how that varies by bedroom:
How Much Is a 1-Bedroom Apartment in Tennessee?
According to our rental estimates from October 2024, a one-bedroom apartment in Tennessee cost an average of $1,025 a month.
How Much Is a 2-Bedroom Apartment in Tennessee?
To snag a two bedroom apartment in Tennessee, you would pay an average of $1,115 a month according to data from October 2024.
What Salary Do I Need to Live in Tennessee?
One way to determine your recommended salary is to follow a budgeting rule that says you should not be spending more than one-third of your gross income on rent. At an overall average of $1,171 per month, you would need a little over $43,000 to afford an apartment. MIT estimates that the necessary income for a single adult in Tennessee (before taxes) if $43,196 per year, which is close to our average.
The good news is that average salary index in Tennessee is $62,000 per year, which is roughly $29.81 an hour, and well over the cost of living. Similarly, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income in Tennessee is $58,516.
How Much Is Transportation in Tennessee?
Getting around in Tennessee can add up, with average annual transportation costs of $10,349 for a single individual, according to the MIT Living Wage Calculator. For a family of four, consisting of two working parents with two children, you can anticipate paying around $17,359 in transportation costs on an annual basis.
Every county within the state has a public transportation of sorts, with a wide range of services, including fixed-route service, demand-response service, express buses, local shuttles, and complementary paratransit per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). You can view an extensive list of the available public transportation options available in Tennessee through the state’s Department of Transportation Public Transit Services website.
While it is easiest to have reliable transportation of your own, public transportation is still a viable option in Tennessee. To get a better idea of the annual costs of public transportation, take a look at the costs associated with the major cities in Tennessee:
- Nashville: $780
- Memphis: $600
- Knoxville: $540
- Chattanooga: $600
The state, as a whole, continues to make strides in improving its public transportation options. For example, Nashville Mayor John Cooper just announced a $53.7 million proposal that would provide WeGo Public Transit services funding.
How Much Are Groceries in Tennessee?
The average single Tennessee resident spends around $4,279 annually on food or roughly $356 per month. For a family of two, with two working adults and two children, these costs nearly triple to $12,575 annually, or roughly $1048 per month.
Keep in mind that these figures are associated with food that has been picked up at the local Kroger, Publix, or ALDI, and has been entirely prepared in the home. So, if you are anything short of a mastermind in the kitchen, you’ll also want to budget for other additional food costs.
With so many delicious restaurants to choose from, it is to resist a fun night out on the town. Choose from restaurants like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous, or Sweet P’s BBQ, but remember to account for eating out in your budget.
To get a better idea of how to budget, here’s a look at some of the average costs for a meal for two people in a mid-range restaurant, with three courses, across Tennessee:
- Nashville: $65
- Memphis: $60
- Knoxville: $55
- Chattanooga: $70
How Much Is Healthcare in Tennessee?
A single adult with no children will pay around $3,095 for medical care in a single year. A family of four with two working adults and two children can expect to pay $7,208.
Healthcare is an essential aspect of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Whether you see your doctor on an annual basis or suffer from any chronic illnesses, it is always important to have proper health insurance. It can be especially helpful in emergency situations to ensure you can afford any treatments necessary.
If you plan on moving, you can check out the federal healthcare marketplace to see what coverage will be available in your new location. If you happen to relocate outside of an enrollment period, you can report your move to make sure you qualify for out-of-state coverage.
For anyone under the age of 26 still on their parent’s insurance plan, it is possible to maintain standing through their policy even when moving to a new state. You’ll want to check through your current provider first to see which doctors if any, fall in-network in your new location.
How Much Are Utilities in Tennessee?
The average cost of monthly utilities in Tennessee, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for the average renter is $235.38 a month, which is lower than the national average of $253.14. Here's how each of the categories break down:
| Location | Electric | Gas | Water | Fuel | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $166.86 | $31.26 | $35.78 | $1.48 | $235.38 |
| United States | $150.93 | $51.12 | $45.52 | $5.57 | $253.14 |
Learn more about the estimated utility costs per city!
While these costs cover basic utilities, they do not cover additional items such as the internet. The average monthly costs of internet of 60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, or cable/ADSL in these major cities are roughly:
- Nashville: $83.06
- Memphis: $70.40
- Knoxville: $65.40
- Chattanooga: $65.71
You’ll also want to keep in mind the monthly cost of your cell phone bill, which averages $94 for the nation. In some instances, you might be able to bundle your cell phone with your internet provider to help with additional discounting. Other discounts might also be available to new customers, so always be sure to ask.
Tennessee Fitness and Entertainment
There is no shortage of fitness and entertainment opportunities for anyone throughout the state of Tennessee. Enjoy hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, explore Historical Sites or Botanic Gardens, or even check out the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
Just don’t forget to account for some of your fitness and entertainment expenses in your budget. Thankfully, the average cost, per month, of a fitness club in major cities throughout Tennessee, is relatively low:
- Nashville: $62.89
- Memphis: $20
- Knoxville: $33.56
- Chattanooga: $30.67
You can save on costs by taking up other outdoor activities such as running, hiking, biking, and walking. Just remember that there are four very distinct seasons in Tennessee and you’ll have to account for the proper attire for each.
Tennessee National and State Parks
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park and is one of the few that does not charge an entrance fee, making it a great budget-friendly fitness and entertainment option for anyone in Tennessee.
In addition to this breathtaking national park, Tennessee is also home to 56 state parks, all of which are free to enter and enjoy at your leisure. If you are looking to enjoy particular activities in the parks, there might be small fees associated with permits or reservations. Otherwise, hiking and enjoying the great outdoors are always free for any visitors.
Here is a Short List of some of the most popular national and state parks in Tennessee:
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- South Cumberland State Park
- Burgess Falls State Park
- Short Springs State Natural Area
- Fall Creek Falls State Park
Tennessee Museums
Summers in Tennessee can be very hot and humid, which is not ideal for outdoor activities. You can cool off by checking out one of the countless museums the state has to offer. With something to offer everyone, you can enjoy a museum solo, on a date, or with the whole family. Some of the admission prices of the most popular museums in the state include:
- Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville: $27.95
- Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville: $28
- Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge: $27
- The Johnny Cash Museum in Nashville: $22.95
- Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Memphis: $13
Other Expenses to Consider in Tennessee
For those looking to move to Tennessee, the great news is that there is no income tax on salary and wages. Unfortunately, having no income tax does come at a cost. Tennessee is known for having the highest average sales tax. The state has a sales tax of 7% and allows the local governments to collect up to an additional 2.75% of sales tax, which averages at 2.546% across the state.
If you are moving out of state, there will also be additional costs to consider, including movers, storage, hotels, and transportation. Moves also require additional fees such as apartment application fees, security deposits, pet deposits, and other optional add-ons.
Once you move into your new apartment, you’ll want to do some decorating to make it feel like a home. Unfortunately, furnishing a new apartment can be expensive. Check out a few tips on how to decorate your apartment on a budget.
Looking for an Apartment in Tennessee?
If you are looking to move somewhere with vibrant cities, mild weather, and a relatively low cost of living, Tennessee might be the state for you. Register with Apartment List today and start checking out the thousands of available apartments to rent in Tennessee!
FAQs: Cost of Living in Tennessee
How expensive is an apartment in Tennessee?
Tennessee rents vary depending on which city you live in. A one-bedroom apartment in Memphis is $957. A two-bedroom apartment in Memphis is $1,114.
A one-bedroom apartment in Chattanooga is $990. A two-bedroom apartment in Chattanooga is $1,105.
A one-bedroom apartment in Knoxville is $1,095. A two-bedroom apartment in Knoxville is $1,376.
A one-bedroom apartment in Nashville costs $1,283. A two-bedroom apartment in Nashville costs $1,446
What is the cheapest rent in Tennessee?
The cheapest rent in Tennessee is a one-bedroom apartment in Memphis. You’ll spend an average of $957 for a one-bedroom apartment in Memphis.
How expensive is it to live in Tennessee?
A one-bedroom apartment in Memphis averages $957. A two-bedroom apartment in Memphis costs $1,114.
Single adults will spend $3,351 for food in Tennessee. A family of two working adults and two children will pay $9,856 annually on food. For transportation, single adults living in Tennessee will spend $5,509. A family of two working adults and two children will spend $15,012 each year on food.
How far is Tennessee from Florida?
Tennessee to Florida is 718.3 miles via I-75 S. It takes about 11 hours and 18 minutes to drive from Tennessee to Florida.
How far is Tennessee from Georgia?
Tennessee is 376.4 miles from Georgia via I-75 S. It takes about 6 hours and 48 minutes to drive from Tennessee to Georgia.
What is the population of Tennessee?
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Tennessee is 7,051,339.
What is a good salary in Tennessee?
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median income in Tennessee is $58,516. Aim to spend no more than 30% of your take-home pay on rent to live comfortably in Tennessee. If you rent a one-bedroom apartment in Memphis for $957, you need a salary of $38,280 to live comfortably. For a two-bedroom apartment that costs $1,114, you’ll need a salary of at least $44,560.
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