Hermitage, TN vs. Nashville, TN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Nashville area? Here’s a rapid-fire cost of living comparison between Hermitage and Nashville:
- 🏠 Median home price: 22% lower in Hermitage
- 🍽️ Avg. restaurant meal: $5 cheaper in Hermitage
- ⚡ Utilities per month: $28 less in Hermitage
- 🛒 Groceries for family of 4: $120 less per month in Hermitage
For families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living, here’s a detailed breakdown of Hermitage vs Nashville in 2025. All income figures are expressed as gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
The biggest factor in the cost of living difference is housing. Typical costs to buy or rent in Hermitage vs Nashville:
| Housing | Hermitage | Nashville |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $415,000 | $535,000 |
| Mortgage Payment* | $1,663 | $2,145 |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,350 | $1,690 |
*Assuming 20% down, 30-year fixed
🏆 Winner: Hermitage. Housing costs are significantly lower in Hermitage compared to Nashville proper.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs also trend lower in Hermitage:
- Avg. electric bill: $128 in Hermitage, $145 in Nashville
- Avg. gas bill: $65 in Hermitage, $75 in Nashville
- Avg. water/sewer/trash: $70 in Hermitage, $85 in Nashville
Summers are hot and humid in both cities. Expect electric bills to spike June-September. In Hermitage, some HOA fees include landscaping and trash pickup.
🏆 Winner: Hermitage. Utility costs average about $28/month less than Nashville.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries and everyday items cost about 5% less in Hermitage compared to Nashville. For a family of four, grocery costs break down to:
- $780/month in Hermitage
- $900/month in Nashville
Eating out is also cheaper in Hermitage. Expect to pay around $12 for a basic meal vs $15-17 in Nashville.
🏆 Winner: Hermitage. Groceries and dining out cost less than Nashville.
4. Taxes and Fees
Tennessee has no state income tax, so paychecks go further in both cities. Sales tax is 9.25% in Nashville/Davidson County.
Property taxes are lower in Hermitage, averaging 0.85% vs 1.1% in Nashville. For a $400K home, that’s a difference of $1000/year.
🏆 Winner: Hermitage. Lower property taxes give Hermitage the edge.
5. Cost of Living in Hermitage vs Nashville
| Category | Hermitage | Nashville |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠 Housing | $1350 – $1663 | $1690 – $2145 |
| ⚡ Utilities | $263 | $305 |
| 🛒 Groceries | $780 | $900 |
| 🚗 Transportation | $55 | $65 |
| 💸 Misc | $200 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2648 – $2961 | $3210 – $3665 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Hermitage offers more space for the money, with larger homes and yards. It has a quiet, suburban feel while still being close to Nashville.
Nashville averages 2°F warmer than Hermitage in summer. But Hermitage is a bit breezier.
Nashville has more walkable neighborhoods and public transit options. But traffic and parking are worse than Hermitage.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Hermitage more affordable than Nashville?
A: Yes, the cost of living is about 15% lower in Hermitage. Housing is the biggest difference.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Hermitage. A typical 2BR apartment rents for $1350 vs $1690 in Nashville.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Hermitage. The median home price is $415,000, which is 22% less than Nashville at $535,000.
8. Conclusion
While both great cities, Hermitage offers a lower cost of living than Nashville. It’s ideal for those wanting more space on a budget while still being close to Nashville.
Young professionals who value walkability and don’t mind less space may prefer Nashville. But for families or those looking to get more for their money, Hermitage is a great choice.
Budgeting for a move to Hermitage? Check out these monthly budget examples for Hermitage residents.