As retirement trends shift across the country, East Tennessee is quietly gaining recognition as one of the most desirable destinations for seniors. While places like Florida and Arizona have long been the go-to choices, today’s retirees are more focused on value, lifestyle, and natural beauty than ever before—and East Tennessee checks every box.
From its scenic landscapes to its low cost of living, this region is attracting a new wave of retirees who want more than just sunshine—they want community, balance, and a place to truly enjoy their golden years.
Breathtaking Natural Beauty, Year-Round
One of the most obvious reasons retirees are looking toward East Tennessee is the landscape. The region is home to rolling hills, peaceful lakes, and easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains—the most visited national park in the country. Communities like Rarity Bay on Tellico Lake or neighborhoods outside Knoxville offer peaceful, scenic living that feels far from the noise of urban sprawl.
The seasons offer a variety many seniors enjoy. There’s springtime hiking in the Smokies, colorful fall foliage, warm but not unbearable summers, and mild winters that rarely bring extreme weather. For retirees coming from colder northern climates or hotter southern regions, East Tennessee’s weather hits a comfortable middle ground.
Affordability Makes a Big Difference
Retiring comfortably doesn’t mean giving up everything you’ve worked for—it means making your money go further. According to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC), Tennessee ranks among the ten most affordable states in the country, factoring in housing, groceries, healthcare, and transportation.
Perhaps most importantly for retirees, Tennessee does not tax wages or retirement income, including Social Security, pensions, or 401(k) withdrawals. This tax-friendly environment allows seniors to stretch their savings further while still enjoying a high quality of life.
Property taxes are also among the lowest in the U.S., which makes owning a home here far more attainable than in states with comparable amenities. Retirees can often afford lakefront or mountain-view properties in East Tennessee that would be out of reach in other parts of the country.
Healthcare Access Without the Big-City Stress
Healthcare is understandably one of the top concerns for seniors. Fortunately, East Tennessee is home to several well-regarded healthcare systems, including Covenant Health, Tennova Healthcare, and the University of Tennessee Medical Center. These facilities offer access to specialized geriatric care, cardiac services, and other programs tailored to the needs of aging populations.
The bonus? Unlike larger metropolitan areas, getting to appointments is rarely a hassle. Traffic is minimal, parking is easy, and many medical facilities are just minutes from popular retirement communities. For those looking to age in place, having peace of mind about local healthcare options is a game-changer.
A Slower, More Connected Lifestyle
One of the biggest reasons retirees say they move to East Tennessee is the lifestyle—and it’s not something you can measure in stats.
There’s a strong sense of community in many of the small towns and lakefront developments in the region. Whether it’s a neighbor bringing over homemade pie, a local festival on the town square, or a regular game of pickleball at the community clubhouse, East Tennessee fosters connection.
For seniors who want to remain socially active, communities like Rarity Bay and Tellico Village provide built-in opportunities to stay involved. These neighborhoods aren’t just about homes—they offer walking trails, marinas, fitness centers, golf courses, and frequent social events that help newcomers quickly feel like locals.
Proximity to Family Without the High Cost
Many retirees don’t necessarily want to move across the country—they just want to be somewhere a bit quieter, more affordable, and still close enough for family visits. East Tennessee’s location makes that easy.
Knoxville and Chattanooga both have regional airports, and the region is drivable from much of the Midwest and Southeast. Seniors who want to be within a day’s drive of kids and grandkids living in Atlanta, Nashville, Charlotte, or Louisville will find East Tennessee an ideal central hub.
For many, that convenience—combined with cost and scenery—is enough to tip the scales.
Safety & Peace of Mind
For retirees moving out of crowded or high-crime cities, safety is often a top priority. Smaller towns in East Tennessee consistently rank among the safest in the region. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation reports that counties like Loudon, Monroe, and Blount have lower-than-average crime rates compared to urban centers.
This sense of safety doesn’t just apply to statistics—it’s something residents feel. Whether it’s walking the dog after dark or leaving doors unlocked while boating on the lake, retirees say peace of mind plays a big role in why they stay.
The Rise of Retirement Communities Like Rarity Bay
Rarity Bay, located on the shores of Tellico Lake in Vonore, is one of the premier examples of why East Tennessee is becoming so attractive for retirees. This gated community blends luxury living with a strong sense of connection and purpose.
Residents enjoy lake access, golf, horseback riding, and a full social calendar—all framed by sweeping views of the Smoky Mountains. Homes range from cozy villas to expansive lakefront estates, offering options for a range of budgets and lifestyles.
Many new residents find Rarity Bay with the help of local real estate professionals like Rick Smenner of the Tellico Lake Home Team. With years of experience in the area, Rick specializes in helping retirees relocate smoothly—whether they’re coming from out of state or simply downsizing locally.
He often helps clients not just find a home, but understand what life will be like once they arrive. That includes everything from navigating HOA details to discovering local restaurants, boat clubs, and healthcare providers.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Place to Retire
Retiring in East Tennessee isn’t just about affordability or beautiful views—it’s about the chance to truly enjoy your time without the stress and expense of other markets.
For seniors looking for a better balance of nature, community, and long-term value, this part of the country offers a compelling answer. And for those ready to make the leap, East Tennessee is more than just a destination—it’s the beginning of a new chapter that’s peaceful, practical, and full of possibility.
