Brentwood, TN vs. Hermitage, TN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Imagine this scenario: Sarah is comparing rent prices for a 2-bedroom apartment in Brentwood and Hermitage. In Brentwood, the average rent is $2,400 per month. But in Hermitage, a similar apartment goes for just $1,800. That’s a savings of $600 every month – or $7,200 per year – on housing alone.
Sarah also notices that her weekly grocery bill tends to be about $25 cheaper in Hermitage. Those savings add up to $1,300 annually. In this article, we’ll dive into a detailed cost of living comparison between Brentwood and Hermitage, Tennessee. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone weighing the real-life costs of these two Nashville suburbs in 2025.
Housing Costs: Brentwood vs Hermitage
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare:
| Housing Type | Brentwood | Hermitage |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Rent) | $2,400 | $1,800 |
| 3BR House (Mortgage) | $3,500 | $2,700 |
🏆 Winner: Hermitage. Housing costs are around 20-25% lower in Hermitage compared to Brentwood.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. The average household in either Brentwood or Hermitage can expect monthly utility bills around:
- Electricity: $120-150
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $60-80
- Natural Gas: $40-60 (higher in winter)
Both cities offer optional recycling for an added fee. Brentwood’s recycling program costs $5/month.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are nearly identical in Brentwood and Hermitage.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries tend to be 5-10% cheaper in Hermitage compared to Brentwood. A gallon of milk is about $0.30 less and a loaf of bread is around $0.20 cheaper.
Eating out is also more affordable in Hermitage. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages $50 in Hermitage vs $60 in Brentwood.
🏆 Winner: Hermitage. Expect to spend a bit less on food and daily expenses in Hermitage.
Taxes and Fees
Both cities have the same 9.25% sales tax rate. However, property taxes are higher in Brentwood:
- Brentwood property tax rate: 0.47%
- Hermitage property tax rate: 0.38%
On a $500K home, that’s a difference of $450 per year. Some Brentwood neighborhoods also have HOA fees ranging from $30-100 per month.
🏆 Winner: Hermitage. Lower property taxes and fewer HOA fees give Hermitage the advantage.
Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Brentwood | Hermitage |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $2,400 | $1,800 |
| Utilities | $230 | $220 |
| Groceries | $400 | $375 |
| Transportation | $60 | $60 |
| Taxes (Property) | $195 | $158 |
| Misc Expenses | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,535 | $2,863 |
Lifestyle Fit: Brentwood vs Hermitage
Brentwood offers more upscale living with larger homes, highly-rated schools, and quick access to Nashville. However, that comes with a higher price tag.
Hermitage provides a great value for those prioritizing affordability. It has more modest homes but an easier commute to major employers like Amazon. Hermitage also averages 5°F cooler than Brentwood in the summer months.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and what matters most to you. Our monthly budget guide for Brentwood can help you crunch the numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brentwood more affordable than Hermitage?
No, Hermitage is generally 15-20% cheaper than Brentwood, primarily due to lower housing costs.
Which city has lower rent prices?
Hermitage has lower rent, with 2BR apartments around $1,800/month vs $2,400/month in Brentwood.
Where is it cheaper to buy a house?
Hermitage offers lower home prices and property taxes, making it more affordable for buyers. A typical mortgage payment on a 3BR house is $2,700 in Hermitage compared to $3,500 in Brentwood.
Conclusion
While both Brentwood and Hermitage are great places to live, Hermitage comes out ahead in terms of overall affordability. Families looking to stretch their budget will find Hermitage very appealing.
However, Brentwood remains a top choice for those willing to pay a premium for luxury housing, top schools, and a quick drive to Nashville. Consider your priorities and crunch the numbers to see which option is the best fit.