If you’re thinking about where to enjoy your retirement years, you’re not alone, and you’re asking the right questions. Tennessee continues to be one of the most popular states for retirees, thanks to its beautiful landscapes, affordable living, and relaxed pace of life.
And while there are plenty of great cities across the state, Kingsport stands out as one of the best places to retire in Tennessee.
We’re proud to call Kingsport home at Asbury Place, and we see every day why so many seniors are choosing this quiet corner of East Tennessee for their next chapter. Let’s look at what makes this town such a brilliant and heartwarming choice.
What Makes Tennessee a Great State for Retirement?
Before we discuss Kingsport specifically, let’s consider why Tennessee is on so many retirees’ radars.
- Mild seasons – You’ll still get four seasons, but winters here are shorter and gentler.
- Lower cost of living – Especially compared to Florida or the Northeast.
- Natural beauty – Lakes, mountains, forests—you name it.
- Southern hospitality – Friendly neighbors and small-town charm are the norm, not the exception.
These are the things that bring people to Tennessee, but let’s also discuss why they stay in Kingsport.
1. Kingsport Is Affordable—and That Matters
Retirement budgets matter. And Kingsport offers a lot of value without asking you to sacrifice quality of life.
- Home prices here are below the national average
- Utilities, groceries, and healthcare are all reasonably priced
- You get big-city amenities with a small-town feel
For seniors living on a fixed income, this means more flexibility and fewer financial worries. You can enjoy your days without constantly thinking about your expenses.
According to BestPlaces.net, Kingsport’s cost of living is roughly 20.8% lower than the U.S. average.
2. Nature Is Always Nearby
If you love the outdoors, you’ll feel right at home here. Kingsport is surrounded by some of the most peaceful and scenic spots in East Tennessee.
- Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium – A 3,500-acre nature preserve
- Warriors’ Path State Park – Trails, lakes, and even a golf course
- Holston River – Great for fishing, kayaking, or a peaceful walk
Even if you’re not big on hiking or paddling, the views are something special. You can sit on a bench, sip coffee, and take it all in.
3. It’s a Small Town That Feels Like Family
Kingsport is just the right size, not too big or too small. That’s part of what makes it one of Tennessee’s best places to retire.
- Neighbors wave and know your name
- Traffic is light, and errands are easy
- Local shops and restaurants still feel personal
There’s a strong sense of community here. You’ll find local events like farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and small festivals that make it easy to stay connected.
And that sense of connection is even stronger when you live at Asbury Place. Our residents become true friends, and our staff become like extended family.
4. Excellent Healthcare, Close to Home
Access to reliable, senior-focused medical care is one of the most important things to consider when choosing a place to retire. Kingsport doesn’t disappoint.
- Holston Valley Medical Center is a full-service hospital right in town.
- A variety of specialists, therapists, and clinics are nearby.
- At Asbury Place Kingsport, we offer Concierge Medicine, which gives our residents quick, personalized access to trusted healthcare partners.
Whether it’s a regular check-up or something more involved, you can get the care you need without long waits or long drives.
5. You’re Never Far from What You Need
Kingsport is part of the Tri-Cities area, including Johnson City and Bristol. That means you get the charm of a smaller town with access to everything you need:
- Shopping, dining, and entertainment options
- Tri-Cities Regional Airport for easy travel
- Local colleges and cultural centers that host concerts, lectures, and exhibits
It’s easy to stay active, engaged, and connected, whether with your favorite local coffee shop or your grandkids flying in for a visit.
6. A Community That Truly Supports Seniors
At Asbury Place Kingsport, we’ve designed every detail with older adults in mind. And the broader Kingsport area shares that commitment.
You’ll find:
- Senior-friendly housing and transportation options
- Access to wellness programs, support groups, and social events
- A community that respects older adults and welcomes them as valued contributors
For our part, we offer:
- Independent Living for seniors who want freedom with peace of mind
- Memory Care for those needing more personalized support
- A wide range of programs focused on the 7 Dimensions of Wellness
It’s not just about where you live, it’s how you live. And we believe Kingsport helps make that life better.
How Kingsport Compares to Other Tennessee Retirement Cities
Cities like Nashville and Franklin may get more headlines, but have a higher price tag and more hustle and bustle.
Knoxville and Chattanooga are bigger cities with charm, but they can feel overwhelming if you want something simpler.
Kingsport, on the other hand, offers a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle without giving up access to healthcare, activities, or conveniences. That balance makes it such a strong choice for retirement.
Ready to Retire in Kingsport?
If you’ve been searching for a place that offers beauty, comfort, affordability, and community, Kingsport might be it.
And if you’re looking for a senior living community that feels like home, we’d love to welcome you to Asbury Place Kingsport.
Here, you’ll find:
- Friendly neighbors
- Thoughtful support
- Delicious meals
- Beautiful surroundings
- And a team that treats you like family
Thinking about making the move? Take a tour, meet our team, have lunch with us, and ask your questions; we’re here to help.
Schedule your visit today, or call us to learn more.