What’s the Cost of Living in Nashville Compared to Other Cities?

“What’s the cost of living in Nashville compared to other cities?”

Nashville’s cost of living is lower than major metros like New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago, but higher than many southern cities. Housing and transportation are the biggest factors impacting affordability.

🏡 Housing Costs

• Median Nashville Home Price (2025): ~$450,000

• Median Rent: $1,600–$2,400 depending on size and location
  Compared to cities like Austin or Denver, Nashville still provides more square footage for the price, especially in suburbs like Lebanon or Gallatin.

🛒 Everyday Expenses

• Groceries & Dining: Similar to national averages, though Nashville offers everything from affordable southern cooking to high-end dining.

• Utilities: Around $200–$300 per month depending on the size of your home.

🚗 Transportation Costs

Nashville is car-dependent. Gas and insurance are slightly above the national average, and traffic adds to commute times. Unlike New York or Chicago, there’s limited public transit, so most households rely on multiple vehicles.

🎶 Lifestyle & Entertainment

From live music to sports events and festivals, Nashville offers a vibrant lifestyle at a lower cost than entertainment-driven cities like Los Angeles.

📊 Nashville vs. Other Cities

• More Affordable: Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Denver, Austin

• Slightly More Expensive: Memphis, Birmingham, Louisville
  This balance makes Nashville attractive to relocators who want big-city energy without the extreme price tag.

Nik Shewmaker (Nashville’s Nik)
📲 Call or text: (615) 585-0022
📧 Email: Nashvillesnik@gmail.com
🌐 Visit: www.NashvillesNik.com