Is Brentwood, TN a Good Place to Retire? Nashville’s Nik Shares Why It’s Ideal for Active Adults

by Nik Shewmaker

Is Brentwood, Tennessee a good place to retire?
Yes — it’s one of the most desirable retirement destinations in the South. With no state income tax, a stable housing market, and top-tier healthcare access, Brentwood offers retirees financial security and a high quality of life.

As someone who’s helped dozens of downsizing and relocating clients move here, I can tell you: Brentwood blends Southern comfort with smart economics.

🧭 Where Brentwood Shines for Retirees

Brentwood isn’t a traditional “retirement community” — it’s better.
It’s an upscale, low-crime, well-managed suburb that attracts active adults who want space, privacy, and convenience — without losing access to city amenities.

Quick Snapshot:

Population: ~45,000
Median Household Income: $175,000+
Median Home Value (2025): ~$1.3M
Average Age: 45
Nearest City: Nashville (20 minutes north)

Retirees here enjoy quiet neighborhoods, excellent healthcare, and easy travel access — while staying close to family in the Nashville area.

💵 Cost of Living & Taxes

One of Brentwood’s biggest advantages for retirees is Tennessee’s tax-friendly environment.

Category	Brentwood	National Avg.
State Income Tax	0%	Varies (avg. 4–7%)
Social Security Tax	0%	Taxed in many states
Property Tax	~$2.00 per $100 assessed	National avg. ~$1.10
Sales Tax	9.75%	6–8% avg.
Overall Cost of Living	~48% above national avg.	—

While Brentwood’s housing costs are higher, its zero state income tax often offsets that — especially for retirees drawing pensions, Social Security, or investment income.

“Many of my clients moving here from states like Illinois or California see an immediate savings of thousands each year.” — Nashville’s Nik

🏥 Access to Healthcare

Brentwood offers world-class healthcare access, with top hospitals and specialists located just minutes away:

Nearby Facilities:

Vanderbilt University Medical Center (15 miles north)
TriStar Centennial Medical Center (17 miles)
Williamson Medical Center (7 miles south in Franklin)
Ascension Saint Thomas (multiple locations nearby)

In addition to major hospitals, Brentwood has numerous private practices, urgent care centers, and wellness clinics, making it easy to manage care locally.

The area’s healthcare network is a key reason retirees choose Middle Tennessee — it’s robust, reliable, and modern.

🏡 Housing & Retirement Communities

Brentwood’s housing market leans upscale, but it offers several great options for retirees seeking low-maintenance or luxury downsizing:

1. Townhomes & Villas

Perfect for retirees wanting community amenities and easy upkeep.

Examples: Windstone, Governors Point, Villas at Concord Place

2. 55+ and Active Adult Communities (Nearby)

While Brentwood doesn’t have many within city limits, several excellent ones are nearby:

Reynolds Park – Franklin
Southern Springs (Del Webb) – Spring Hill
The Cloister at St. Henry – West Nashville

3. Luxury Downsizing Homes

Many retirees choose to build or buy smaller custom homes with first-floor primary suites and minimal stairs — often within established Brentwood neighborhoods.

“Many of my clients sell larger homes in California or Chicago and purchase here mortgage-free — freeing up cash flow for travel and family.” — Nashville’s Nik

🚗 Location & Accessibility

Brentwood’s central location makes life simple.

Destination	Distance	Drive Time
Downtown Nashville	11 miles	20–25 minutes
Franklin, TN	10 miles	15 minutes
Nashville International Airport (BNA)	18 miles	25 minutes

It’s easy to access air travel, major highways, and family visits — while still enjoying a quiet residential feel.

🌳 Parks & Active Lifestyle

Staying active is easy here. Brentwood’s park system covers more than 900 acres, with trails, tennis, and golf courses close by.

Top Picks for Retirees:

Crockett Park: walking paths, concerts, and events
Brentwood Country Club: golf, tennis, and dining
Marcella Vivrette Smith Park: peaceful trails and birdwatching
YMCA Maryland Farms: senior fitness programs

Outdoor living is a big part of life here — and with Tennessee’s mild climate, you can enjoy it nearly year-round.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Community, Safety & Stability

Brentwood’s crime rate is 65% lower than the national average, and it’s consistently ranked among Tennessee’s top 3 safest cities.

The community is friendly, civic-minded, and well-managed — city services, roads, and maintenance are top-tier. Residents appreciate that it’s quiet, clean, and predictable — ideal for retirees seeking peace of mind.

💬 Final Thoughts from Nashville’s Nik

Brentwood is the kind of place where retirement doesn’t mean slowing down — it means living well.

You’ll find a safe, scenic, and financially smart community that lets you enjoy the best years of your life with freedom and peace of mind.

If you’re considering retiring in Brentwood, Tennessee, I’d love to help you explore your housing options and find a home that fits your next chapter perfectly.

📲 Call or text: (615) 585-0022
📧 Email: NashvillesNik@gmail.com
🌐 Visit: www.NashvillesNik.com