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. That, and the 10.1% lower cost of living compared to the U.S. average.

We know Tennessee has a lot to love, and, unsurprisingly, it 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. In this article, we cover everything you need to know about the cost of living in Tennessee, tailored explicitly for renters.

Cost of Living in Tennessee

What Is the Cost of Living in Tennessee?

According to data from Best Places, the cost of living in Tennessee is 10.1% lower than the national average, making it a state with a low cost of living.

Other data from MIT living wage estimates show that one adult without children should earn at least $45,740 before taxes to live above the poverty threshold in the state. 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 the Cost of Living Highest in Tennessee?

The most expensive city in Tennessee is Brentwood, where the cost of living is 39.4% higher than the U.S. average and 55.1% higher than the state average.

Where Is the Cost of Living Most Affordable in Tennessee?

The cheapest major city in Tennessee is Cleveland, with a cost of living 15.1% lower than the national average and 5.6% lower than the state average.

What Is the Median Rent in Tennessee?

As of August 2025, the median rent in Tennessee is $1,164 for all unit sizes. One-bedroom apartments cost an average of $1,019 per month, while two-bedroom apartments cost a median of $1,109 per month.

Tennessee has experienced a 0.1% decline in year-over-year rent growth, close to the national decline of 0.7%.

Tennessee:

Major Cities in Tennessee:

How Much Is a One-Bedroom Apartment in Tennessee?

According to our rental estimates from August 2025, the median price for a one-bedroom apartment in Tennessee is $1,019. Prices vary by city and county. Currently, the median rent price for a one-bedroom apartment in Nashville is $1,272, while Memphis has a median rent price 29.2% lower at $900.

How Much Is a Two-Bedroom Apartment in Tennessee?

As of August 2025, the median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Tennessee is $1,109 per month. Median rent prices vary greatly from one city to another. Currently, Nashville has a median rent of $1,415 for a two-bedroom apartment, while the median rent in Memphis is only $1,020.

How Much Is Housing in Tennessee?

According to Best Places, the median home cost for Tennessee is $277,400. The location or city where you decide to purchase a home has a major influence on pricing.

Those moving to Brentwood can expect a median home cost of $1,127,200, while those settling down in Memphis see a median cost of $148,300.

What Salary Do I Need to Live in Tennessee?

Renters in Tennessee need an average salary of $46,560 ($3,880 per month) if following the 30% rule. The 30% rule states that renters and homeowners should spend no more than 30% of their pretax income on housing costs. Currently, Tennessee residents pay a median price of $1,164 across all unit sizes, making a salary of $46,560 ideal to afford the median housing price in Tennessee.

MIT living wage estimates suggest a single adult without children should earn $45,740 (before taxes) to keep up with the minimum cost of living in Tennessee and remain above the poverty threshold.

The good news is that the average salary in Tennessee is $71,000 per year, which is roughly $34 an hour, and well above the cost of living. Similarly, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income in Tennessee is $67,631, or approximately $33 per hour.

How Much Is Transportation in Tennessee?

Getting around in Tennessee can add up, with average car-based transportation costs of $10,319 for a single individual (roughly $860 per month) per year, according to the MIT Living Wage Calculator. For a family of four, consisting of two working adults and two children, anticipate paying around $17,308 in car-based transportation costs on an annual basis (or about $1,442 per month).

Every county within the state has a public transportation system (of sorts), offering different services, which may include fixed-route service, demand-response service, express buses, local shuttles, and complementary paratransit services, as mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act. You can view an extensive list of the available public transportation options 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 an option in Tennessee. To get a better idea of the annual costs of public transportation, take a look at the costs of monthly public transit passes associated with the major cities in Tennessee, according to Numbeo:

• Nashville: $65 monthly
• Memphis: $50 monthly
• Knoxville: $30 monthly
• Chattanooga: $50 monthly

The state, as a whole, continues to make strides in improving its public transportation options. For example, Nashville just approved the “Choose How You Move” referendum, which is a $3.1 billion plan to improve public transportation and mobility around the city.

How Much Are Groceries in Tennessee?

The average single Tennessee resident without children spends around $4,334 annually on food, or roughly $361 per month. For a family of four, with two working adults and two children, these costs nearly triple to $12,703 annually, or roughly $1,059 per month.

Please note that these figures are associated with food purchased at a local grocery store, such as Kroger, Publix, or Aldi, and prepared at home. So, if cooking isn’t one of your skills, you’ll also want to budget for additional food costs.

With so many delicious restaurants to choose from, it's hard to resist a fun night out on the town. Choose from restaurants like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge or Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous, but remember to factor in eating out expenses 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 midrange restaurant, with three courses, across Tennessee:

• Nashville: $75
• Memphis: $75
• Knoxville: $90
• Chattanooga: $80

How Much Is Child Care in Tennessee?

Like everywhere else in the U.S., parents in Tennessee spend a lot on child care. The MIT living wage estimates show that sending one child to daycare costs approximately $7,755. For two kids, the total doubles to $15,511.

Many families are getting creative with child care options to reduce the cost. Consider a neighborhood co-op that splits up child care duties a few days a week, or hiring a college student for one to two days per week to reduce costs.

How Much Is Healthcare in Tennessee?

A single adult without children will pay approximately $3,329 for medical care in a single year. A family of four, consisting of two working adults and two children, can expect to pay $11,105.

If you plan to move, you can check the federal healthcare marketplace to see what coverage will be available in your new location. If you relocate outside of an enrollment period, you can report your move to make sure you qualify for out-of-state coverage.

For anyone under 26 still on their parents’ insurance plan, it is possible to maintain coverage through their policy even after 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 monthly cost of utilities in Tennessee, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, for the average renter is $216.44, which is lower than the national average of $225.58. Here's how each of the categories breaks down.

Utility costs will also vary depending on what type of rental you’re in. For example, utility bills in apartments will typically be lower than those in condos or full-size houses.

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: $70.01
• Memphis: $67.40
• Knoxville: $56.23
• Chattanooga: $72.33

You’ll also want to keep in mind the monthly cost of your cell phone bill, which averages about $60 nationwide, according to Numbeo. In some instances, you may be able to bundle your cell phone with your internet provider to receive a discount. 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 botanical 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 monthly cost of a fitness club in major cities throughout Tennessee is relatively low.

Here are the monthly fitness costs according to Numbeo:

• Nashville: $46
• Memphis: $25.40
• Knoxville: $35.43
• Chattanooga: $40

You can save on costs by enjoying other outdoor activities such as running, hiking, biking, and walking. Just remember that Tennessee has four distinct seasons, and you’ll need to account for the proper attire for each.

How Much Are Taxes in Tennessee?

For those looking to move to Tennessee, the good 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 one of the highest average sales taxes. 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 2.61% across the state.

Tennessee National and State Parks

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park and one of the few that does not charge an entrance fee, making it a great budget-friendly option for fitness and entertainment in Tennessee. Please note that Great Smoky Mountains National Park charges a parking fee, which can be purchased on a daily, weekly, or annual basis.

In addition to this breathtaking national park, Tennessee is also home to dozens of 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 are 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 extremely hot and humid, making outdoor activities less ideal. You can cool off by exploring one of the many 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: $31.95
• Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville: $28
• Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge: $39.99
• The Johnny Cash Museum in Nashville: $27.95
• Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Memphis: $20

Other Expenses to Consider in Tennessee

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 add some personal touches to make it feel like a home. Unfortunately, furnishing a new apartment can be expensive.

Find Your Next Apartment in Tennessee

Tennessee’s lower cost of living makes it an appealing state for many renters. With four distinct seasons and 56 state parks, you can stay busy the whole year.

If you’re ready to find your next apartment, you can ditch the doomscrolling and start getting matched with apartments that fit your lifestyle, preferences, and budget. Take the Apartment Lists personalized quiz to get paired with your next home. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

FAQs: Cost of Living in Tennessee

How expensive is an apartment in Tennessee?

Rents in Tennessee vary depending on the city in which you live. A one-bedroom apartment in Memphis has an average rent of $1,180, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $1,264.

Other cities like Knoxville have an average rent for a one-bedroom apartment of $1,575, and a two-bedroom apartment averages $1,874.

Nashville rent averages follow a similar price, with a one-bedroom costing an average of $1,840 and a two-bedroom apartment averaging $2,292.

What is the cheapest rent in Tennessee?

Some of the most affordable rent in a Tennessee city is for a one-bedroom apartment in Memphis, which averages $1,180.

How expensive is it to live in Tennessee?

The MIT Living Wage Calculator estimates that a single adult should earn at least $45,740 before taxes to live above the poverty threshold in Tennessee.

How far is Tennessee from Florida?

The distance from Tennessee to Florida is 718.3 miles via Interstate 75. The drive from Tennessee to Florida takes approximately 11 hours and 18 minutes.

How far is Tennessee from Georgia?

Tennessee is 376.4 miles from Georgia via Interstate 75. 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, Tennessee's population is 6,910,840.

What is a good salary in Tennessee?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median income in Tennessee is $67,631. 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 $1,180, you need a salary of $47,200 to live comfortably. For a two-bedroom apartment that costs $1,264, you’ll need to earn a salary of $50,560.