Nashville, TN vs. Hermitage, TN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Deciding between Nashville and Hermitage, Tennessee? This cost of living comparison breaks down the key differences in housing, utilities, groceries and more as of 2025. Whether you’re relocating for work, buying a home, or renting an apartment, see which city best fits your lifestyle and budget.
Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Nashville and Hermitage compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Nashville | Hermitage |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $450,000 | $375,000 |
| Mortgage (PITI) on Median Home | $2,200/month | $1,850/month |
| Median Rent (2BR Apartment) | $1,800/month | $1,500/month |
🏆 Winner: Hermitage. Housing costs about 15-20% less in Hermitage compared to Nashville proper.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $180/month for electricity, water, and gas in a typical apartment in either Nashville or Hermitage.
Both cities experience hot summers and mild winters. Most homes have central AC, so electric bills peak in July and August. Winter heating costs are lower than many parts of the country.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable in Nashville and Hermitage.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, dining out, and everyday purchases cost about the same in Nashville and Hermitage. A couple can expect to spend around $500-600/month on groceries in either city.
One notable difference: Nashville has more high-end dining and boutique shopping options downtown, so households who eat out or shop frequently may spend a bit more living in the city compared to the suburbs of Hermitage.
🏆 Winner: Hermitage, but only slightly. Grocery costs are similar, but Hermitage residents may save on discretionary spending.
Taxes and Fees
Tennessee has no state income tax, which benefits residents of both Nashville and Hermitage. However, Nashville has a slightly higher sales tax rate of 9.25% compared to 9.00% in Hermitage.
Property taxes are also a bit higher in Nashville at 1.20% vs 1.00% in Hermitage. For a $400K home, that’s a difference of about $800/year.
🏆 Winner: Hermitage. Lower sales and property tax rates give Hermitage a slight edge.
Cost Summary Table
| Category | Nashville | Hermitage |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,800 – $2,200 | $1,500 – $1,850 |
| Utilities | $180 | $180 |
| Groceries | $500 | $500 |
| Transportation | $100 | $120 |
| Taxes | 1.20% property tax 9.25% sales tax | 1.00% property tax 9.00% sales tax |
| Misc | $250 | $200 |
| Est. Monthly Total | $2,830 – $3,230 | $2,500 – $2,850 |
Note: Estimates above reflect typical pre-tax monthly costs. Your actual budget may vary. See monthly budget examples for Nashville residents.
Lifestyle Fit
Hermitage offers a quieter suburban lifestyle about 20-30 minutes east of downtown Nashville. Residents get more square footage for their money, with many homes featuring private yards and garages.
Nashville proper is a better fit for those who prioritize walkability, nightlife, and cultural amenities. Many Nashville neighborhoods are 5-10°F warmer than Hermitage during summer heat waves due to the urban heat island effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Nashville more affordable than Hermitage?
No, Hermitage is generally 10-15% cheaper than Nashville, mainly due to lower housing costs. - Which city has lower rent?
Hermitage. A typical 2BR apartment rents for about $1,500/month in Hermitage compared to $1,800/month in Nashville. - Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Hermitage. The median home price in Hermitage is about $375,000 vs $450,000 in Nashville as of 2025.
Conclusion
While Nashville and Hermitage are only about 20 miles apart, their cost of living differs considerably, especially for housing. A household moving from Nashville to Hermitage could easily save $300-$400/month on rent or mortgage payments alone.
Budget-conscious families may prefer Hermitage for its relative affordability and suburban amenities. Young professionals, singles, and those who value city life might opt to pay a bit more to live in central Nashville.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your household budget, lifestyle, and what amenities matter most to you. See our full guide to the cost of living in Nashville.