Why Knoxville, Tennessee is a Great Place to Retire

Considering where to settle down during retirement? Knoxville, Tennessee, might just be the perfect place! Knoxville, TN, offers stunning landscapes, rich culture, and plenty of activities for retirees. Here are a few benefits of retiring to Knoxville, Tennessee.
1. Knoxville offers plenty of natural beauty.
Knoxville is a beautiful location in the Tennessee Valley. The Great Smoky Mountains lie just to the east, with the Cumberland Plateau to the west, which means you can enjoy mountain views when driving around town. These mountains offer several opportunities for outdoor exploring, including hiking, biking, and scenic drives. Within Knox County, you’ll find beautiful waterways like Ft. Loudoun Lake, Melton Hill Lake, and the Tennessee River. Nearby, you can access Norris Lake, Douglas Lake, and Watts Bar Lake. Many of these waterways are renowned for fishing and boating and offer marinas and snack bars to keep you fueled during a day on the water.
2. Knoxville is considered an affordable place to live.
Retiring in Knoxville can be cost-effective. The city has a cost of living that is 14% lower than the national average. This report compares common living costs including housing, groceries, and utilities. What’s more, Knoxville has no state income tax and offers low property taxes, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious retirees.
3. Knoxville offers a farm-to-table lifestyle.
Knoxville’s deep roots in East Tennessee agriculture are reflected in its farmers’ markets, where fresh, local produce and handmade goods are available year-round. Residents can also take advantage of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs or shop at the beloved Three Rivers Market for locally sourced products.
4. Knoxville has a strong arts and entertainment culture.
Knoxville ranks as having one of the best arts districts in the US. You can catch a show at the historic Tennessee Theatre, enjoy live performances at the Bijou Theatre, or experience modern entertainment at venues like the Mill & Mine. Knoxville’s artistic festivals, such as Big Ears and The Dogwood Arts Festival, showcase the city’s creativity and talent, while the monthly First Friday art walk offers a vibrant glimpse into the local art community. Learn more about the annual arts festivals in the blog post.
5. Knoxville has great communities for retirees.
At Saddlebrook, we know that your retirement should provide the lifestyle you want. You’ve earned it! Whether you want to downsize to a beautiful townhome in Farragut, enjoy ease in a maintenance-free one-level home, or be close to outdoor recreation in an active community, Saddlebrook has options to suit your preferences. We have quick move-in opportunities available for a hassle-free transition, or you can enjoy our streamlined construction process and build a home in one of our communities. Our knowledgeable team is here to guide you through the relocation process when you are ready to retire to Knoxville.
Contact our team today with any questions or to schedule private home showings.
Browse our quick move-in homes and explore our communities on our website.