What’s the Cost of Living in Nashville, TN?

Brought to you by Centex®

Aerial view of buildings in Downtown Nashville, reflecting the cost of living in Nashville, TN
Aerial view of buildings in Downtown Nashville, reflecting the cost of living in Nashville, TN

The reasonable cost of living in Nashville, TN, is a big factor behind why Music City appeals to potential homeowners looking to relocate here. The city’s blend of Southern hospitality, access to major employers, and fun, affordable neighborhoods also contribute to its growing popularity. 

Before you start house hunting, let’s take a look at some of the numbers behind Nashville living costs and the area’s lifestyle. From rent prices and utilities to groceries and recreation, this guide covers the cost to live in Nashville, TN, and how far your budget can take you.

Summary:

  • Cost of Living in Nashville, TN

  • Comparing Average Home Prices and Rent Costs in Nashville, TN

  • Other Living Expenses in Nashville, TN

    • Grocery Shopping and Dining Out in Nashville

    • Transportation Options and Fuel Costs in Nashville

    • Healthcare and Insurance Costs in Nashville

    • Utilities, Internet, and Phone Expenses in Nashville

    • Tax Rates in the Nashville Area

    • Recreation Costs in Nashville, TN

  • Average Salary in Nashville

  • Average Cost to Build a New Home in Sarasota by Neighborhood

  • Cost of Living in Nashville, TN, Conclusion


Cost of Living in Nashville, TN

Is it expensive to live in Nashville, Tennessee? The overall average cost of living in Nashville, TN, is approximately 1% lower than the national average and 9% higher than the state average, according to RentCafe® as of September 2025. Daily living expenses in Nashville can be more expensive than in other areas of the state, but tend to remain less than the national average. Plus, since Tennessee doesn’t have a state income tax, you can potentially keep more of your paycheck in your wallet.

Per the MIT® Living Wage Calculator, as of February 2025, a single adult with no children needs to earn a living wage in Nashville, TN, of $25.52/hour to cover annual expenses. In comparison, a household with two working adults and two children would require each adult to earn around $26.46/hour.


Comparing Average Home Prices and Rent Costs in Nashville, TN

As of August 2025, the median home sale price in Nashville averages $486K, an increase of 6.8% from last year, according to Redfin®. For those looking at apartments, the Nashville average apartment rent is around $1,676/month for a one-bedroom space, according to Apartments.com®, as of October 2025. Given this is significantly lower than cities like Austin or Los Angeles, it can make Nashville an attractive option for renters saving for their first home.


Other Living Expenses in Nashville, TN

Daily living expenses in Nashville, TN, are typically lower than the national average. Annually, MIT’s February 2025 data estimates that a single adult spends around $4.5K on food, $3.4K on healthcare, $10.9K on transportation, and about $1.8K on internet and phone services. For a household of four with two working adults and two children, those yearly totals increase to $13.3K for food, $11.5K for healthcare, $18.3K for transportation, and $2.3K for internet and phone. Let’s take a closer look at costs in these categories.


Grocery Shopping and Dining Out in Nashville

Nashville’s grocery prices are on par with the national average, according to RentCafe (September 2025), which can help make planning meals and stocking the fridge relatively stress-free. For example, a gallon of milk runs around $4.63, a dozen eggs cost about $3.32, and a loaf of bread typically sells for around $3.91, according to RentCafe’s data. 

Dining out offers plenty of options to match your budget, with casual lunch spots, local BBQ joints, and upscale date-night restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re grabbing takeout from Mas Tacos Por Favor or dining at The Southern, there’s plenty of variety that won’t overly stretch your wallet. Per Numbeo™, as of September 2025, a low-cost meal averages $16.50, while a three-course meal for two at a more mid-range restaurant can run roughly $75. 


Transportation Options and Fuel Costs in Nashville

Most residents rely on their personal vehicles for commuting, errands, and school drop-offs, and RentCafe’s September 2025 data reports Nashville living expenses for transportation are 9% lower than the national average. MIT data estimates transportation costs are $10.9K annually for a single adult, including gas, insurance, maintenance, and car payments. For a household with two working adults and children, those costs climb to $18.3K annually. 


Fuel prices hover around $2.75/gallon, per AAA® (October 2025). While an extensive highway network can make driving around Nashville convenient and often necessary, choosing a home close to work or school can help cut those commuting costs. However, public transportation is available through the WeGo system, with a full-day pass costing $4 and a monthly pass being $65. Discounts on passes are available for seniors and youth under age 19. 
People crossing the street in Downtown Nashville, reflecting the cost to live in Nashville, TN.
People crossing the street in Downtown Nashville, reflecting the cost to live in Nashville, TN.

Healthcare and Insurance Costs in Nashville

Known as a healthcare hub, Music City is home to several nationally recognized hospitals and healthcare networks, with the living cost in Nashville for healthcare about 4% lower than the national average, per RentCafe as of September 2025. RentCafe also finds the average doctor’s visit to be approximately $122, while dental appointments come in around $110, and optometry visits average $114. 


As of October 2025, MoneyGeek® reports that the most affordable health insurance premiums range from $376 to $606 per month. Overall, MIT’s February 2025 data finds annual healthcare expenses at approximately $3.4K for a single adult and $11.5K for a household of four with two working adults.


Utilities, Internet, and Phone Expenses in Nashville

As of September 2025, utility costs are 2% lower than the national average, per RentCafe, though they are higher than the state average. RentCafe also reports that these Nashville living expenses run approximately $182 per month, which includes electricity, heating, and water, although costs can fluctuate seasonally. 


For internet and phone services, MIT’s February 2025 data finds that a single adult pays about $1,800 annually, while a household of four pays around $2,300. Many providers may offer bundle packages that include home Wi-Fi, cable, and mobile phone coverage, giving households plenty of flexibility to manage their digital needs within budget.


Tax Rates in the Nashville Area

Tennessee is one of the few states with no personal state income tax, which can help residents hang on to more take-home pay. The February 2025 MIT data states that a single adult pays roughly $7.3K in annual taxes, while a family of four with two working parents pays around $10.9K. 


However, the lack of a state tax is partially offset by a higher sales tax rate. Per Avalara®, the total combined sales tax in Nashville is 9.75%, which includes a 7% state sales tax and additional local rates. While this can bump up the cost of consumer goods, many residents find the lack of state income tax to be a worthwhile trade-off, especially for long-term savings.


Recreation Costs in Nashville, TN

From music and museums to fun for all ages, Nashville offers affordable entertainment all around town. Here are a few examples of Nashville living costs for recreation: 


Average Salary in Nashville

Another consideration in the Nashville average cost of living is an understanding of local income ranges. As of October 2025, the average salary in Nashville is $67K per year, which works out to about $32.22 an hour or $5,585 per month, according to ZipRecruiter®. 

Salaries in Nashville span a wide range, from entry-level positions earning around $49K to higher-paying roles that can reach over $83K annually, with many jobs concentrated in industries like healthcare, tech, education, and music.

To live comfortably, MIT’s Living Wage Calculator (February 2025) suggests a single adult in Nashville needs to earn at least $53,090 a year before taxes. For a household with two working adults and two children, the necessary combined income rises to approximately $110,087 annually. That kind of earning power can support not just day-to-day living expenses in Nashville, TN, but also future goals like travel, savings, and homeownership.
New homes in a Nashville suburb, reflecting living expenses in Nashville, TN
New homes in a Nashville suburb, reflecting living expenses in Nashville, TN

Average Cost to Build a New Home in Nashville by Neighborhood

Whether you want lake views, a big backyard, or a new home with plenty of room to grow, Nashville has something for every budget. Here's a look at how much it typically costs to build a new home in some affordable Nashville suburbs. 


Columbia

Located about 45 miles south of downtown Nashville, Columbia is a growing city with a small-town feel and lively energy. Its revitalized downtown square is packed with boutiques, coffee shops, and local restaurants, while outdoor enthusiasts love exploring Chickasaw Trace Park and floating down the scenic Duck River. Columbia is also known for its community events, including the famous Mule Day festival, and has seen recent growth in breweries, art spaces, and new businesses. 


Columbia is a great choice for homebuyers seeking more space, lower housing costs, and a strong sense of community. The cost to build a new home in Columbia, according to NewHomeSource™ as of September 2025, starts in the upper $200Ks. New homes in Columbia, TN, by Centex start in the upper $300Ks.


Fairview

Fairview sits about 30 miles southwest of Nashville and offers a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle. It’s best known for Bowie Nature Park, a sprawling 700-acre green space with wooded trails, fishing ponds, and nature programs for all ages. Fairview also boasts quality Williamson County schools and a growing mix of local shops, making it especially attractive for families and nature lovers. 

With its rural feel, abundant open space, and easy access to nearby Franklin and Nashville, Fairview is ideal for homebuyers who want both breathing room and convenience. NewHomeSource finds the cost to build a new home in Fairview starts in the lower $300Ks, with some homes in the million-dollar range. 


White House

White House is a fast-growing suburb about 25 miles north of Downtown Nashville, offering easy access to the city via I-65. The area blends small-town personality with modern amenities, including a greenway system, quality schools, and a community-oriented vibe that’s perfect for homebuyers. 

Overall, residents love the annual festivals, local parks, and proximity to larger shopping and dining hubs in Hendersonville and Gallatin. New homes in White House start in the low $300Ks, per NewHomeSource as of September 2025. 


La Vergne

Located just southeast of Nashville near Smyrna and Murfreesboro, La Vergne offers great value for homebuyers who want convenience without the downtown price tag. The city offers access to major employers, inviting neighborhoods, and plenty of outdoor spaces like Veterans Memorial Park and Hurricane Creek Greenway. It’s also an easy drive to Percy Priest Lake. 


With its strong location, diverse housing options, and proximity to I-24, La Vergne is a smart choice for commuters and families alike. New homes range from the mid $300Ks to $500Ks, according to NewHomeSource. 


Gallatin

Gallatin is a scenic suburb northeast of Nashville, located along Old Hickory Lake and packed with natural beauty and amenities. Residents enjoy boating, fishing, and lakeside trails, as well as historic downtown charm and popular spots like Triple Creek Park and Long Hollow Golf Course. The city also features a growing dining scene and easy access to Hendersonville and I-65. 


Gallatin continues to attract homebuyers who want peaceful surroundings, water views, and a strong community feel, all without giving up access to the city. According to NewHomeSource, new homes range from the upper $300Ks to $700Ks. 


Cost of Living in Nashville, TN, Conclusion

The Nashville cost of living offers an ideal balance between lifestyle and value. With savings through no state taxes and reasonable healthcare, transportation, and food costs, this is an affordable city where you can thrive. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or relocating from out of state, Nashville delivers big-city perks with small-town appeal.

Explore new home communities in Nashville, TN, today, or browse more Centex blogs. 



Written By: Jordan Thomson, Freelance Writer

Last Updated: 1/7/26