Assisted living in Tennessee costs approximately $5,845 per month on average (about $70,140 annually), based on statewide pricing trends and the standardized range-based modeling framework used across SeniorCareCostGuide. This places Tennessee just below the national median of $6,200 — a meaningful upward shift from prior data which showed Tennessee well below national averages.
Pricing varies significantly across the state. Middle Tennessee communities including Nashville and Franklin frequently exceed the statewide median due to rapid population growth, higher household incomes, and stronger demand for senior housing, while West Tennessee and Northeast Tennessee markets offer more moderate entry-level pricing.
Families comparing regional pricing may also want to review assisted living costs in North Carolina and Kentucky.
Tennessee Assisted Living Cost Snapshot (2026)
| Metric | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Statewide Median | ~$5,845/mo |
| Annual Equivalent | ~$70,140 |
| Lowest Major Markets | Jackson, Johnson City, Clarksville |
| Highest Major Markets | Franklin, Nashville, Murfreesboro |
| Compared to National Median | Slightly Lower |
| Most Comparable States | Georgia, Kentucky, Alabama |
On This Page
- Average assisted living cost in Tennessee
- Tennessee monthly pricing
- City-by-city assisted living costs
- Regional cost patterns
- Medicaid coverage in Tennessee
- Tennessee vs other states
- Long-term cost planning
- How to compare Tennessee communities
How Tennessee Assisted Living Costs Compare Nationally
Tennessee’s assisted living median of approximately $5,845 per month falls just below the national median of $6,200 by roughly $355 per month — a near-median position that represents a significant upward shift from prior data which showed Tennessee at nearly $600 below the national average.
Tennessee remains a relatively affordable Southeastern retirement market compared to Virginia ($6,945/mo), North Carolina ($6,496/mo), and Maryland ($7,173/mo), while offering comparable or higher costs than neighboring Georgia ($5,300/mo) and Alabama.
One notable data point: Tennessee’s in-home care median of $5,911 per month (CareScout 2025) is slightly higher than its assisted living median of $5,845 — making assisted living a cost-competitive alternative to home care for many Tennessee families.
For a broader benchmark, see our guide to the national average assisted living cost.
What Is the Average Cost of Assisted Living in Tennessee?
The CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey reports Tennessee’s assisted living median at approximately $70,140 per year, about $5,845 per month.
Estimated Annual Cost
At $5,845/month:
| Period | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 Year | $70,140 |
| 3 Years | $210,420 |
| 5 Years | $350,700 |
These projections do not account for annual rate increases, which typically range between 3% and 7%.
How Much Does Assisted Living Cost Per Month in Tennessee?
Most assisted living communities in Tennessee charge between $4,700 and $7,000 per month, with a statewide median near $5,845 per month.
Monthly pricing varies significantly by region, care level, and proximity to healthcare infrastructure. Nashville and Franklin frequently exceed $6,000 per month, while West Tennessee and Northeast Tennessee communities tend to offer more moderate baseline pricing.
Assisted Living Costs by City in Tennessee
Tennessee’s economic diversity and population growth patterns create measurable pricing variation across regions. The figures below reflect planning ranges consistent with the statewide median of approximately $5,845 per month.
| City | Low Range | High Range | Estimated Median | Annual Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Franklin | $5,500 | $7,450+ | ~$6,500 | ~$78,000+ |
| Nashville | $5,450 | $7,350+ | ~$6,400 | ~$76,800+ |
| Murfreesboro | $5,050 | $6,850+ | ~$5,950 | ~$71,400+ |
| Knoxville | $4,950 | $6,750+ | ~$5,850 | ~$70,200+ |
| Chattanooga | $4,900 | $6,600+ | ~$5,750 | ~$69,000+ |
| Clarksville | $4,750 | $6,450+ | ~$5,600 | ~$67,200+ |
| Memphis | $4,750 | $6,450+ | ~$5,600 | ~$67,200+ |
| Johnson City | $4,700 | $6,300+ | ~$5,500 | ~$66,000+ |
| Jackson | $4,600 | $6,200+ | ~$5,400 | ~$64,800+ |
Franklin and Nashville consistently reflect the highest assisted living pricing in the state due to rapid population growth, strong in-migration, and higher median household incomes in Williamson County. Jackson and Johnson City offer the most moderate entry-level pricing while still maintaining access to regional healthcare networks.
Highest and Lowest Assisted Living Costs in Tennessee
Highest-Cost Tennessee Markets
- Franklin — The most expensive major market in the state, reflecting Williamson County’s status as one of the wealthiest counties in the Southeast, with strong demand from high-income retirees and significant in-migration.
- Nashville — Strong pricing driven by rapid population growth, healthcare sector expansion, and strong labor market competition in the Davidson County corridor.
- Murfreesboro — Reflects Nashville metro pricing dynamics driven by strong suburban demand and proximity to the Middle Tennessee healthcare corridor.
More Affordable Tennessee Markets
- Jackson — Generally the most moderate pricing among major Tennessee cities, reflecting West Tennessee’s lower real estate costs and more limited demand pressure.
- Johnson City — Northeast Tennessee market offers below-median pricing relative to the Nashville corridor.
- Clarksville — Northwestern Tennessee market pricing reflects more moderate real estate and labor costs than Middle Tennessee.
Regional Assisted Living Cost Patterns in Tennessee
Assisted living pricing in Tennessee varies meaningfully by region, largely tracking proximity to the Nashville metropolitan area.
Middle Tennessee (Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro, Clarksville)
Pricing: $4,750 to $7,450+ per month
Middle Tennessee consistently reflects the highest assisted living pricing in the state. Nashville’s expanding healthcare and corporate sectors have contributed to strong wage competition for caregiving staff, supporting gradual upward pricing pressure throughout the region. Franklin and surrounding Williamson County reflect the highest prices in the state due to the area’s significant wealth concentration and strong retiree in-migration. Communities benefit from proximity to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, HCA Healthcare, and other major Tennessee health systems.
West Tennessee (Memphis, Jackson)
Pricing: $4,600 to $6,450+ per month
West Tennessee markets reflect more moderate pricing structures driven by lower real estate costs and slower population growth relative to Middle Tennessee. Memphis, despite being the state’s largest city, reflects pricing well below Nashville due to more moderate income demographics and real estate values. Jackson offers the most accessible pricing of any major Tennessee market.
East Tennessee (Knoxville, Chattanooga, Johnson City)
Pricing: $4,700 to $6,750+ per month
East Tennessee communities offer pricing near or slightly below the statewide median. Knoxville and Chattanooga benefit from healthcare system presence and retiree migration from the Midwest and Northeast, supporting stable demand at moderate pricing. Johnson City and the Tri-Cities region offer the most affordable pricing in East Tennessee.
Tennessee Senior Housing Market Trends (2026)
Nashville Corridor Drives Statewide Cost Increases: Tennessee’s most significant pricing driver is the Nashville metropolitan area’s continued population growth and economic expansion. Franklin and Williamson County in particular have experienced dramatic in-migration from higher-cost Northeastern and Midwestern markets, driving both housing costs and senior living demand to levels well above the rest of the state.
In-Home Care Slightly More Expensive Than Assisted Living: Tennessee’s in-home care median of $5,911 per month (CareScout 2025) is marginally higher than the assisted living median of $5,845. This makes assisted living a cost-competitive alternative to home care for many Tennessee families, particularly those considering around-the-clock support needs.
Strong Retiree In-Migration Supports Demand Statewide: Tennessee’s lack of a state income tax continues attracting retirees from higher-cost Northeastern and Midwestern states. This in-migration dynamic supports occupancy levels and pricing resilience particularly in the Nashville and Knoxville corridors.
Annual Rate Increases Consistent with Southeastern Trends: Annual assisted living rate increases across Tennessee typically range between 3% and 7%, consistent with broader Southeastern trends. Nashville area communities may experience increases at the higher end of this range due to ongoing population growth and labor cost pressures.
What Does Assisted Living Typically Include in Tennessee?
Assisted living communities in Tennessee generally structure pricing into a base monthly rate plus additional care-related fees.
Typically Included in Base Monthly Cost
- Private or semi-private accommodations
- Meals and dining services
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Utilities
- Scheduled transportation
- Social and recreational programming
- Basic assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)
Often Billed Separately
- Medication administration
- Higher levels of personal care
- Memory care services
- One-time move-in or community fees
- Specialized therapies or health monitoring
Communities frequently use tiered care models. As a resident’s health needs increase, monthly charges rise accordingly.
Assisted Living vs Other Care Options in Tennessee
| Care Type | Average Monthly Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Assisted Living | ~$5,845 | Moderate daily support |
| Memory Care | ~$7,000 to $8,500 | Dementia or Alzheimer’s care |
| Nursing Home | ~$9,429 to $10,038/mo | Skilled medical supervision or 24/7 nursing care |
| Home Care | ~$5,911/mo | Aging in place with part-time support |
Tennessee’s nursing home semi-private room median of $9,429 per month (CareScout 2025) is approximately $3,584 more per month than assisted living — a meaningful premium that reinforces assisted living’s cost advantage for seniors who don’t require skilled nursing care. Home care at $5,911 per month is marginally higher than assisted living on a standard hours basis.
What Affects Assisted Living Costs in Tennessee?
- Location: Middle Tennessee communities including Nashville and Franklin command higher rates due to rapid population growth, income levels, and healthcare infrastructure.
- Level of Care Required: Increased assistance with daily activities raises monthly costs as residents transition to higher care tiers.
- Private vs. Shared Units: Private apartments typically cost more than shared accommodations.
- Memory Care: Specialized staffing and secure environments increase pricing relative to standard assisted living communities.
- Retiree In-Migration: Tennessee’s lack of state income tax continues attracting retirees from higher-cost states, supporting demand and pricing resilience in major markets.
- Regulatory Environment: Tennessee assisted living communities are licensed and regulated by the Tennessee Department of Health, with staffing standards and compliance requirements contributing to operating costs.
Does Medicaid Cover Assisted Living in Tennessee?
Medicare does not cover long-term assisted living costs.
Tennessee Medicaid (TennCare) may provide limited assistance through the CHOICES program, a Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver initiative designed to support eligible seniors in community settings rather than institutional facilities.
Important considerations:
- Coverage applies primarily to approved personal care and support services
- Room and board costs are generally the resident’s financial responsibility
- Income and asset limits apply
- Functional eligibility criteria must be met
- Waiting lists may apply depending on program funding
Families should confirm current eligibility requirements directly with TennCare or consult a qualified elder law advisor before making financial decisions.
How Tennessee Assisted Living Costs Compare to Other States
Tennessee’s median of $5,845/mo is just below the national median and among the more affordable options in the Southeast, though costs have risen meaningfully from prior data.
| State | Estimated Monthly Median | Relative to Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | ~$5,845 | — |
| Virginia | ~$6,945 | Higher |
| North Carolina | ~$6,496 | Higher |
| Kentucky | ~$5,528 | Lower |
| Georgia | ~$5,300 | Lower |
| Alabama | ~$4,215 | Significantly Lower |
Tennessee now exceeds Kentucky and Georgia — both of which were previously at or above Tennessee’s old median. Virginia and North Carolina remain more expensive.
Compare Tennessee Assisted Living Costs to Nearby States
- North Carolina Assisted Living Costs
- Virginia Assisted Living Costs
- Kentucky Assisted Living Costs
- Georgia Assisted Living Costs
- Alabama Assisted Living Costs
Long-Term Cost Planning in Tennessee
Assisted living should be evaluated as a multi-year financial commitment. At $5,845 per month with a 5% annual increase, projected costs may look like:
| Year | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | $5,845/month |
| Year 2 | $6,137/month |
| Year 3 | $6,444/month |
| Year 4 | $6,766/month |
| Year 5 | $7,105/month |
Over five years, cumulative spending may exceed $387,000, excluding additional care needs or care level transitions.
Families should account not only for annual rate increases but also for potential care level escalations. Transitioning from assisted living to memory care in Tennessee can increase monthly costs by 15% to 30%, potentially pushing costs above $8,500 per month in Nashville area communities.
How to Plan for Assisted Living Costs in Tennessee
Common financial strategies families use to fund assisted living in Tennessee include:
- Home sale proceeds (Nashville area real estate values have appreciated significantly)
- Long-term care insurance
- Veterans benefits (Aid and Attendance program)
- Retirement income and savings
- Bridge financing
Projecting 3 to 5 years of potential expenses provides a more realistic financial outlook, particularly when incorporating annual rate increases and possible care level transitions.
Who Tennessee Assisted Living May Be Best Suited For
Tennessee assisted living may appeal most to:
- Seniors with established community and family ties in Tennessee who wish to remain close to home
- Retirees drawn by Tennessee’s lack of state income tax and favorable overall tax environment
- Families seeking access to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, HCA Healthcare, or other major Tennessee health systems
- Retirees relocating from higher-cost Northeastern states who find Tennessee’s cost structure more manageable
- Families comparing Tennessee with neighboring North Carolina or Virginia as broadly comparable Southeastern retirement markets
How to Compare Assisted Living Communities in Tennessee
Because pricing structures vary significantly across Tennessee, families should request a detailed fee schedule from each community under consideration. Base monthly rates may not fully reflect higher care tiers, medication management, or memory care services.
When comparing communities, consider:
- What level of care is included in the base rate
- How care levels are assessed and priced over time
- Whether annual rate increases are capped or discretionary
- Staffing ratios and caregiver training standards
- Proximity to hospitals and specialty healthcare providers
- Contract structure (month-to-month vs. long-term agreements)
In Nashville and Franklin, premium pricing does not always correlate directly with care quality. Some communities command elevated rates due to location and newer construction rather than materially different care delivery models.
Requesting a written breakdown of all potential fees helps families avoid unexpected cost escalations over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does assisted living cost per month in Tennessee?
Most assisted living communities in Tennessee range between $4,700 and $7,000 per month, with a statewide median near $5,845 per month based on the CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey.
Is Tennessee below the national average for assisted living?
Slightly. Tennessee’s median of $5,845/mo falls just $355 below the national median of $6,200 — a near-median position that represents a meaningful upward shift from prior data which showed Tennessee at $5,300, nearly $600 below the national average.
Is home care cheaper than assisted living in Tennessee?
Marginally no. Tennessee’s in-home care median of $5,911 per month (CareScout 2025) is slightly higher than the assisted living median of $5,845. Assisted living is a cost-competitive alternative to home care while providing housing, meals, and around-the-clock support.
What is the most expensive region in Tennessee for assisted living?
Middle Tennessee — particularly Franklin and Nashville — consistently reflects the highest assisted living pricing, with communities frequently ranging between $5,450 and $7,450+ per month.
Are assisted living costs in Tennessee increasing each year?
Yes. Most communities implement annual rate increases between 3% and 7%. Nashville area communities may experience increases at the higher end of this range due to ongoing population growth and labor cost pressures.
Can Medicaid help pay for assisted living in Tennessee?
TennCare may provide limited assistance through the CHOICES HCBS program, though room and board costs are generally not covered. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and demonstrated care needs. Families should confirm current program details with TennCare or a qualified elder law advisor.
Methodology
Pricing estimates are modeled using a range plus midpoint planning framework anchored to national industry data, including statewide median figures from the CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey (data collected July through November 2025, published March 2, 2026).
State comparisons reflect standardized median estimates used across SeniorCareCostGuide. Long-term projections are illustrative planning models based on consistent annual growth assumptions and are intended for planning purposes only.
For a detailed explanation of how pricing estimates are modeled, see our Assisted Living Cost Methodology.
Sources
- CareScout 2025 Cost of Care Survey
- State-level pricing estimates modeled using a standardized range and midpoint framework
- Local market observations based on publicly available senior living data and community-level pricing trends
Last reviewed: May 2026.