Top 5 Best Retirement Locations in Tennessee: Your Guide to Golden Years Living
Tennessee has become one of America's most popular retirement destinations, and for good reason. With no state income tax, affordable living costs, mild climate, and stunning natural beauty, the Volunteer State offers retirees an unbeatable combination of financial benefits and quality of life. Whether you're seeking lakeside tranquility, mountain views, or active adult communities, Tennessee delivers retirement living at its finest.
After careful consideration of factors like healthcare, cost of living, recreational opportunities, and community amenities, we've identified the top 5 retirement destinations in Tennessee that offer the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and Southern charm.
1. Fairfield Glade, TN - Premier Retirement Community Living
Retiring to Fairfield Glade means joining one of Tennessee's most prestigious planned retirement communities. This 12,000-acre resort community sits atop the beautiful Cumberland Plateau, offering cooler summers and spectacular four-season scenery that makes every day feel like a vacation.
Why Fairfield Glade is Perfect for Retirement:
Resort-Style Amenities: 5 championship golf courses, multiple lakes, tennis courts, and fitness facilities
Healthcare Access: Close proximity to Cookeville Regional Medical Center and Cumberland Medical Center
Active Lifestyle: Over 100 clubs and organizations, from hiking groups to book clubs
Maintenance-Free Living: Many housing options include lawn care and exterior maintenance
Security: Gated community with 24/7 security for peace of mind
Dining and Entertainment: Multiple restaurants, marina, and year-round events calendar
The community's elevation provides a climate that's 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding areas, making outdoor activities comfortable even during summer months. With property values that have shown consistent growth, Fairfield Glade offers both lifestyle and investment benefits.
2. Lake Tansi, TN - Lakeside Retirement Paradise
Retiring to Lake Tansi offers the perfect lakeside retirement lifestyle in a private, gated community. This hidden gem provides serene lake living with all the amenities active retirees desire, all while maintaining Tennessee's affordable cost of living.
Lake Tansi Retirement Advantages:
Private Lake: 550-acre pristine lake perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming
Golf Excellence: 18-hole championship golf course designed by Larry Nelson
Community Amenities: Clubhouse, fitness center, tennis courts, and marina
Affordable Luxury: Significantly lower costs than comparable lake communities
Healthcare Proximity: Easy access to Cookeville and Crossville medical facilities
Active Community: Organized activities, clubs, and social events year-round
Natural Setting: Rolling hills, mature trees, and wildlife create a peaceful environment
Lake Tansi's combination of private lake access, golf, and community amenities creates an ideal retirement environment for those who want resort-style living without resort-style prices.
3. Crossville, TN - The Retirement Capital of the Cumberland Plateau
Retiring to Crossville puts you at the heart of Tennessee's retirement haven. Known as the "Golf Capital of Tennessee," Crossville offers retirees an unbeatable combination of recreational opportunities, healthcare access, and small-town charm with big-city conveniences.
Crossville Retirement Benefits:
Golf Paradise: Over 10 championship golf courses within a 30-minute drive
Excellent Healthcare: Cumberland Medical Center and numerous specialist practices
Cost of Living: Housing and living expenses well below national averages
Climate: Elevated location provides cooler summers and mild winters
Arts and Culture: Crossville Fine Arts Center, Cumberland County Playhouse, and numerous festivals
Shopping and Dining: Diverse retail options and restaurants to suit every taste
Outdoor Recreation: State parks, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities abound
Crossville's central location provides easy access to Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga for cultural events while maintaining the peaceful, slower pace that retirees cherish.
4. Tellico Village, TN - Award-Winning Active Adult Community
Retiring to Tellico Village means joining one of America's top-rated active adult communities. Located on Tellico Lake near the Great Smoky Mountains, this planned community has won numerous awards for its amenities, lifestyle, and value.
Tellico Village Features:
Championship Golf: Three 18-hole golf courses including the acclaimed Toqua Golf Course
Lake Living: 33-mile shoreline on pristine Tellico Lake with marina and water activities
Wellness Focus: State-of-the-art wellness center with fitness programs and pools
Social Life: Over 120 clubs and interest groups keep residents engaged
Cultural Activities: Tellico Village community center hosts concerts, lectures, and events
Healthcare: Close to Fort Loudoun Medical Center and Blount Memorial Hospital
Mountain Access: Minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park
This planned community specifically designed for active adults 55+ provides the perfect balance of recreation, social activities, and natural beauty.
5. Franklin, TN - Upscale Retirement with Historic Charm
Retiring to Franklin offers sophisticated retirement living in one of Tennessee's most charming historic towns. Located just south of Nashville, Franklin combines small-town character with upscale amenities and cultural opportunities.
Franklin Retirement Appeal:
Historic Downtown: Beautifully preserved Civil War-era downtown with boutiques and restaurants
Cultural Access: Close proximity to Nashville's world-class entertainment and healthcare
Upscale Communities: Numerous 55+ communities with luxury amenities
Healthcare Excellence: Williamson Medical Center and easy access to Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Property Values: Strong real estate market with excellent appreciation potential
Climate: Mild four-season climate ideal for year-round outdoor activities
Dining and Shopping: Award-winning restaurants and high-end shopping options
Franklin's proximity to Nashville provides access to major medical centers, airports, and cultural attractions while maintaining its distinct identity and charm.
Planning Your Tennessee Retirement: Essential Considerations
Financial Benefits of Tennessee Retirement
No State Income Tax: Keep more of your retirement income and Social Security benefits
Low Property Taxes: Tennessee has some of the lowest property tax rates in the nation
Affordable Healthcare: Lower healthcare costs compared to many states
Housing Value: Your retirement dollars stretch further in Tennessee's affordable housing market
Climate and Lifestyle
Tennessee's moderate climate allows for year-round outdoor activities without the extreme heat of the Deep South or harsh winters of northern states. The state's diverse geography offers everything from mountain retreats to lakeside living.
Healthcare Considerations
All of our top retirement locations offer excellent healthcare access, with major medical centers within reasonable driving distance. Tennessee's growing healthcare infrastructure continues to expand services specifically for the state's growing retiree population.
Preparing Your Retirement Home in Tennessee
Home Modifications for Retirement Living
Moving to Tennessee for retirement often involves downsizing, renovating, or building a new home designed for your changing needs. Consider features like:
Single-story living or accessible design
Low-maintenance exterior materials
Energy-efficient systems for lower utility costs
Outdoor living spaces to enjoy Tennessee's beautiful weather
Essential Home Improvements for Tennessee Retirees
Tennessee's climate requires specific considerations for retirement homes:
Quality Roofing: Tennessee's weather patterns demand durable roofing systems that can handle storms, high winds, and temperature variations
Outdoor Living Spaces: Custom decks and screened porches extend your living space and allow you to enjoy the state's natural beauty
Low-Maintenance Features: Choose materials and designs that minimize upkeep requirements
Welcome to Retirement in Tennessee: Jeff Woods Construction is Here to Help
As a family-owned business with over 25 years of experience serving Tennessee retirees, Jeff Woods Construction understands the unique needs of those choosing Tennessee for their retirement years. We've helped countless retirees create their perfect Tennessee homes, from custom builds to renovations that make aging in place comfortable and safe.
Our Services for Tennessee Retirees:
Custom Home Building: Design and build your dream retirement home with accessibility and low-maintenance in mind
Roofing Services: Ensure your retirement home has a roof built to last through Tennessee's variable weather
Custom Decks and Outdoor Living: Create beautiful outdoor spaces perfect for Tennessee's mild climate
Motorized Screening Solutions: Enjoy bug-free outdoor living with retractable screens for porches and decks
Home Modifications: Adapt your home for changing needs with accessible design features
Why Tennessee Retirees Choose Jeff Woods Construction:
Retirement-Focused Experience: We understand the specific needs and priorities of retiree homeowners
Local Climate Expertise: 25+ years of experience building for Tennessee's unique weather patterns
Family Values: Three generations of craftmanship with a commitment to treating every customer like family
Quality Materials: We use premium materials designed for durability and low maintenance
Comprehensive Service: From initial consultation to final walkthrough, we handle every detail
Whether you're planning to retire to Fairfield Glade, Lake Tansi, Crossville, or any of our Tennessee service areas, Jeff Woods Construction is ready to help you create the perfect retirement home. Our experienced team specializes in custom home construction that meets the evolving needs of retirees.
Making Your Retirement Home Perfect:
Roof Replacement: Ensure your retirement home is protected with our professional roofing services
Custom Decks: Create the perfect outdoor entertainment space with our custom deck solutions
Outdoor Comfort: Enhance your outdoor living with our motorized screening systems
Start Your Tennessee Retirement Journey Today
Ready to begin your Tennessee retirement adventure? Contact Jeff Woods Construction at (931) 787-7715 or visit our office at 123 Interchange Drive, Crossville, TN 38571. We're here to help make your transition to retirement in Tennessee as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Our team serves retirees throughout Middle and East Tennessee, including Cookeville, Knoxville, Kingston, Loudon, Sparta, Jamestown, and all surrounding communities. Let us help you create the retirement home you've always dreamed of in beautiful Tennessee.
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Welcome to your Tennessee retirement – we can't wait to help you make it everything you've dreamed it would be!
