La Vergne, TN vs. Smyrna, TN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Imagine two families, the Smiths and the Johnsons, both looking to relocate to the Nashville suburbs. The Smiths rent a 2-bedroom apartment in La Vergne for $1,450 per month, while the Johnsons opt for a similar unit in Smyrna at $1,650. When it comes to groceries, the Smiths spend about $800 monthly, compared to the Johnsons’ $850 in Smyrna.
This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between La Vergne and Smyrna, Tennessee. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life costs of living in these two cities in 2025. All income figures are expressed as gross monthly income (pre-tax).
Housing Costs: La Vergne vs Smyrna
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical rents and home prices compare:
| Housing Type | La Vergne | Smyrna |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,450 | $1,650 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $350,000 | $380,000 |
🏆 Winner: La Vergne. Renting a 2-bedroom or buying a 3-bedroom home is about 12-14% cheaper in La Vergne compared to Smyrna.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $200-250 per month for electricity, water, and gas for a typical apartment. Both have hot summers and mild winters, so seasonal swings are moderate.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable in La Vergne and Smyrna.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Average monthly expenses in La Vergne for groceries, dining out, and everyday goods total around $800 for a single person. In Smyrna, budget closer to $850. Restaurant prices are 5-10% higher in Smyrna.
🏆 Winner: La Vergne. Expect to save $50+ per month on food and daily expenses in La Vergne vs Smyrna.
Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are slightly lower in La Vergne at 0.71% vs 0.79% in Smyrna. For a $350K home, that’s a difference of about $280 per year. City service fees and typical HOA dues are similar.
🏆 Winner: La Vergne. Lower property tax rates give La Vergne a slight edge.
Cost of Living Summary
| Category | La Vergne | Smyrna |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $1,450 | $1,650 |
| Utilities | $225 | $225 |
| Groceries | $400 | $425 |
| Transportation | $300 | $300 |
| Taxes (0.71% vs 0.79%) | $208 | $231 |
| Misc Expenses | $400 | $425 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,983 | $3,256 |
Lifestyle Fit
Both La Vergne and Smyrna offer a suburban lifestyle with good access to Nashville. La Vergne has slightly larger lots and more green space, while Smyrna is a bit more walkable. Commute times are similar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is La Vergne more affordable than Smyrna?
A: Yes, the cost of living is about 8-10% lower in La Vergne compared to Smyrna, mainly due to cheaper housing.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Renting an apartment is around 12% cheaper in La Vergne. Expect to pay $1,450 for a 2BR in La Vergne vs $1,650 in Smyrna.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Home prices are about 8% lower in La Vergne. The median price for a 3BR house is $350,000 in La Vergne compared to $380,000 in Smyrna.
Conclusion
While La Vergne and Smyrna share many similarities, La Vergne comes out ahead in terms of affordability. Housing costs are the main difference, with La Vergne offering lower rents and home prices. It’s a great fit for those seeking a spacious, budget-friendly suburb. Smyrna is ideal if walkability and slightly shorter commutes are a priority.
To dive deeper into expenses, check out our monthly budget guide for La Vergne in 2025. We also have detailed cost of living breakdowns for other Tennessee cities to inform your next move.