Franklin, TN vs. Hermitage, TN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to Franklin or Hermitage, Tennessee in 2025? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Franklin and Hermitage. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real costs of living in these two charming Tennessee cities.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare in Franklin vs Hermitage:
| Housing Type | Franklin | Hermitage |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $650,000 | $450,000 |
| Mortgage Payment* | $2,850/mo | $1,975/mo |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,100/mo | $1,600/mo |
*Assuming 20% down, 30-year fixed mortgage at 4.5% interest
🏆 Winner: Hermitage. Housing costs are significantly lower in Hermitage compared to Franklin, with savings of $500-875 per month on rent or mortgage payments for comparable homes.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, but there are a few differences to note:
- Electricity rates are about 5% higher in Franklin
- Water/sewer fees average $10/month more in Franklin
- Both cities have similar natural gas prices
Expect monthly utility bills to range from $180-250 for a 2BR apartment in either city, with costs 5-10% higher on average in Franklin.
🏆 Winner: Hermitage, but only by a small margin. Utility costs are comparable.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs and everyday expenses like dining out, entertainment, and basic goods are very similar in Franklin and Hermitage. Expect to spend around $400-500 per month on groceries for a family of two in either city.
A few surprising cost differences between the cities:
- Childcare costs 15% more in Franklin
- Gas prices tend to be 10¢/gallon cheaper in Hermitage
- Movie tickets are $2-3 more expensive in Franklin
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are nearly identical. Hermitage has minor advantages for childcare, gas, and entertainment.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both Franklin and Hermitage have the same sales tax rate of 9.25% and no local income taxes. However, there are key differences in property taxes and service fees:
- Franklin’s property tax rate is 0.4162%, while Hermitage (part of Metro Nashville) has a rate of 0.3427%
- Many Franklin neighborhoods have HOA fees of $200-400/month, while they are less common in Hermitage
- Vehicle registration fees are $10/year higher in Franklin
🏆 Winner: Hermitage. Lower property taxes and fewer HOA fees give Hermitage the advantage.
5. Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Franklin | Hermitage |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,850 | $1,975 |
| Utilities | $220 | $200 |
| Groceries | $450 | $450 |
| Transportation | $350 | $325 |
| Taxes | 0.4162% (property) | 0.3427% (property) |
| Misc Fees | $300 (HOA) | $50 |
| Estimated Monthly Total* | $4,170 | $3,000 |
*Based on a family of 2 adults in a 3BR home, driving 2 vehicles
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Hermitage wins on overall affordability, which city is the best fit depends on your lifestyle preferences:
- Franklin offers more upscale neighborhoods, highly-rated schools, and a quaint downtown area, but with less diversity
- Hermitage provides an easier commute to Nashville, more affordable homes with larger lots, but fewer walkable areas
Franklin averages 5°F cooler summer temperatures than Hermitage. Both cities get all four seasons with hot, humid summers and mild winters.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Is Franklin more affordable than Hermitage?
No, Hermitage is more affordable overall, with lower housing, utility, and transportation costs. However, Franklin offers higher-end amenities that appeal to some.
Which city has lower rent?
Hermitage has lower rental rates, averaging $1,600/month for a 2BR apartment compared to $2,100/month in Franklin.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Hermitage has significantly lower home prices, with a median of $450,000 compared to $650,000 in Franklin. Property taxes are also lower in Hermitage.
8. Conclusion
In summary, Hermitage offers a meaningfully lower cost of living than Franklin, with savings of over $1,000 per month for a typical family. The biggest differences are in housing costs, property taxes, and HOA fees.
Hermitage is likely the better fit for:
- Young families looking for affordable starter homes
- Professionals who want an easier commute to Nashville
- Retirees seeking lower-maintenance living
Franklin appeals more to those who prioritize:
- High-end neighborhoods and amenities
- Excellent public schools
- Charming small-town atmosphere
Ultimately, both Franklin and Hermitage provide a great quality of life – the right choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Be sure to check out our other cost of living guides for popular Tennessee cities.