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Cost of Living in Tennessee 2026

Tennessee cost of living index: 100 (0% below the national average). Tennessee has no state income tax. Data as of January 2026.

📣 Tennessee at a Glance

100
Cost Index
(nat'l=100)
No income tax
State Income Tax
(None)
1,100
Median Monthly Rent

ⓘ Public Data Source: Missouri Economic Research and Information Center. Data as of January 2026.

📊 Cost of Living Breakdown

CategoryTennesseeNational AvgDifference
Overall Cost Index 100 100 -0%
State Income Tax 0% (No Tax) 5% (avg) Best
Median Rent $1,100/mo $1,200/mo (avg) -8%

🏢 Major Metro Areas in Tennessee

Cost of living varies significantly between metro areas within Tennessee. Major cities typically have higher housing costs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of living in Tennessee in 2026?
Tennessee has a cost of living index of 100 compared to the national average of 100. Tennessee is 0% more affordable than the national average. Housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, and healthcare costs all factor into this index.
Is Tennessee expensive to live in?
Tennessee is more affordable than the national average. Residents typically pay less across most cost categories compared to most other states. The biggest driver of cost variation is housing prices in metropolitan areas.
How does Tennessee's cost of living compare to other states?
Tennessee's cost of living index of 100 compares to an average state around 100, meaning Tennessee is notably more affordable than most other states. The most significant differences are in housing costs and state income taxes.
Does Tennessee have a state income tax?
Tennessee has no state income tax, making it one of 9 states with zero income tax. This is a significant financial advantage for residents.
What's the average salary needed to live comfortably in Tennessee?
To live comfortably in Tennessee (covering housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and modest savings), a single adult typically needs $55,000-$85,000/year. A family of four generally needs $90,000-$150,000/year depending on location and lifestyle. These estimates assume renting a modest apartment or owning a median-priced home.

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