Gallatin is considered moderately affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,400 per month and slightly lower utility costs compared to the national average.
Housing Costs in Gallatin
Housing options in Gallatin range from apartments and condos to single-family homes. Renters can expect to pay between $1,200 and $1,600 per month for a typical 2-bedroom apartment, depending on the location and amenities. Neighborhoods closer to downtown or with newer construction tend to be on the higher end of that range.
For those looking to purchase a home, a 3-bedroom house in Gallatin typically costs between $350,000 and $450,000 as of 2025. Again, prices vary by neighborhood, with more established areas like Fairvue Plantation and Foxland Harbor commanding higher prices. Some neighborhoods have optional HOA fees, which can add $100 to $300 per month to housing costs.
Here’s a quick comparison of housing costs in different Gallatin neighborhoods:
| Neighborhood | 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent | 3-Bedroom House Price |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Gallatin | $1,400 – $1,600 | $400,000 – $450,000 |
| Fairvue Plantation | $1,500 – $1,600 | $450,000 – $500,000 |
| Foxland Harbor | $1,500 – $1,600 | $450,000 – $500,000 |
| Triple Crown | $1,200 – $1,400 | $350,000 – $400,000 |
Utilities and Energy Bills
Basic utilities in Gallatin, including electric, gas, water, and trash, typically cost between $200 and $300 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment. Larger homes may see higher utility bills, especially during the hot summer months when air conditioning is a must. Gallatin residents can expect to pay slightly less for utilities compared to the national average.
Here’s a breakdown of typical monthly utility costs in Gallatin:
- Electric: $100 – $150
- Gas: $30 – $50
- Water/Sewer: $50 – $70
- Trash: $20 – $30
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs in Gallatin are generally in line with the national average. A single person can expect to spend around $300 per month on groceries, while a family of four may spend closer to $800 or $900. These estimates include basic household items and occasional dining out.
To give you an idea of food costs, here’s a price comparison of some common grocery items in Gallatin:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.50
- Dozen eggs: $2.00
- Pound of chicken breast: $3.50
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Gallatin residents pay a property tax rate of $2.20 per $100 of assessed value. For a home valued at $400,000, this translates to an annual property tax bill of around $2,200. Tennessee does not have a state income tax, which can help offset the cost of living.
Sales tax in Gallatin is 9.75%, which includes both the state and local rates. This is slightly higher than the national average but in line with other cities in the Nashville area. Vehicle registration fees are $26.50 per year for passenger cars.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
To summarize, here’s a sample monthly budget for living in Gallatin (all figures are pre-tax):
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of Four |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $1,400 | $1,600 | $2,000 |
| Utilities | $200 | $250 | $300 |
| Groceries | $300 | $600 | $900 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $400 |
| Other Expenses | $500 | $700 | $1,000 |
| Total Monthly Budget | $2,600 | $3,450 | $4,600 |
Keep in mind that these are just estimates and your actual costs may vary depending on your specific situation and lifestyle.
Lifestyle Considerations
When deciding if Gallatin is the right place for you, it’s important to consider factors beyond just the cost of living. Gallatin offers a small-town feel with easy access to the amenities of nearby Nashville. Commute times are generally reasonable, with most residents spending 20-30 minutes driving to work.
Gallatin has a mix of older, established neighborhoods and newer developments. Older homes may be more affordable but could require more maintenance, while newer homes often come with higher price tags but lower upkeep costs. The city has several parks and green spaces, including Triple Creek Park and Lock 4 Park, which offer walking trails, playgrounds, and sports fields.
Overall, Gallatin can be a good choice for those seeking a balance of affordability and livability. While housing costs are higher than in some smaller Tennessee towns, they are still lower than in major cities like Nashville. The lack of a state income tax also helps keep the overall cost of living in check.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What salary do you need to live comfortably in Gallatin?
A: To live comfortably in Gallatin, a single person would need a gross monthly income of around $3,500, while a family of four would need closer to $6,000. - Q: Is Gallatin cheaper than Nashville?
A: Yes, the cost of living in Gallatin is generally 10-15% lower than in Nashville, particularly when it comes to housing. - Q: Are utilities expensive in Gallatin?
A: Utility costs in Gallatin are actually slightly lower than the national average, thanks in part to Tennessee’s relatively low energy rates. - Q: What are property taxes like in Gallatin?
A: Gallatin has a property tax rate of $2.20 per $100 of assessed value. For a $400,000 home, this means an annual property tax bill of around $2,200. - Q: Is Gallatin a good place to retire?
A: Gallatin can be a good retirement spot for those seeking a lower cost of living and a slower pace of life, while still having access to the amenities of a larger city like Nashville. - Q: What are the top 3 costs that surprise newcomers to Gallatin?
A: The top 3 costs that often surprise newcomers are: 1) The 9.75% sales tax rate, which is higher than the national average; 2) HOA fees in some neighborhoods, which can add $100-$300 per month; and 3) Higher summer utility bills due to the need for air conditioning.