Affordable Living, Natural Beauty, and a Quality of Life That Still Feels Personal

By Penny Cowell, Broker Owner, Monarch Realty LLC

Each year, more retirees are making a thoughtful decision to relocate to East Tennessee. This is not a trend driven by hype. It is driven by practicality, peace of mind, and quality of life.

After decades of helping buyers relocate to the Smoky Mountain region, I see a clear pattern. People are not just moving here to retire. They are moving here to live well, live affordably, and feel connected to a community that still values neighbors, nature, and balance.

Low Taxes and Financial Peace of Mind

One of the biggest reasons retirees choose Tennessee is the tax structure. Tennessee does not tax earned income, including Social Security benefits. For many retirees living on a fixed or limited income, this single factor can make a significant difference in monthly and annual budgeting.

When combined with a lower overall cost of living compared to many northern and coastal states, East Tennessee allows retirees to stretch retirement dollars further without sacrificing comfort or lifestyle.

A Lifestyle Rooted in Nature and All Four Seasons

East Tennessee offers something many people do not realize they are missing until they experience it. The pace of life is calmer, yet still connected.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides year-round access to hiking, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and peaceful outdoor spaces. Residents enjoy four distinct seasons without the extremes found in other parts of the country. Winters are generally mild, summers are vibrant, and spring and fall are simply beautiful.

For retirees, this means more time outdoors, more movement, and a lifestyle that supports both physical and mental well-being.

Friendliness, Community, and a Sense of Belonging

This region is known for its welcoming culture. Many of my relocation clients mention this almost immediately. People wave. Neighbors talk. There is a genuine sense of community that is harder to find in larger metro areas.

For retirees who may be moving away from long-time homes or family networks, this friendliness matters. Feeling safe, known, and connected is just as important as the house itself.

Addressing the Big Question: Affordability in Retirement

Affordability is often the deciding factor for retirees. The good news is that East Tennessee still offers a range of housing options that support financial security in retirement.

This includes smaller homes, low-maintenance new construction, and properties that are close to medical facilities, shopping, and essential services.

For example, I currently have a brand-new construction home in Newport priced at $239,000. This type of home is ideal for retirees who want:

• New construction with modern systems and lower maintenance
• A manageable yard that does not require constant upkeep
• Proximity to shopping, dining, and medical care
• A quiet, comfortable setting without isolation
• NO HOA great for fixed incomes.
• Modest yard for garden spot

Options like this allow retirees to downsize without downgrading their quality of life or you may be ready for a condo for even less resposibility and more social aspects and neighbors.

Security, Simplicity, and Planning for the Long Term

Many retirees I work with are not looking for excess. They are looking for certainty. A home that is easy to maintain. Monthly expenses that are predictable. A community where they can age comfortably and confidently.

East Tennessee supports that goal. Whether someone is retiring fully or transitioning into part-time work or volunteer life, this region offers flexibility and stability.

Working With a Local Expert Matters

Relocating in retirement is not just about buying a home. It is about making a smart, informed decision that supports the next phase of life.

As a broker and long-time local expert, I help retirees evaluate not just properties, but locations, long-term affordability, healthcare access, resale considerations, and lifestyle fit. Every retirement plan is different, and the right home should support that plan, not complicate it.

Is East Tennessee Right for Your Retirement?

If you are considering a move to East Tennessee and want clear, honest guidance about housing options, affordability, and lifestyle, I would be happy to help you explore what is possible.

There are still wonderful opportunities here for retirees who plan wisely and work with the right local resource.

Penny Cowell
Broker Owner, Monarch Realty LLC
Serving East Tennessee and the Smoky Mountain region