Smyrna, TN vs. Hermitage, TN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison between Smyrna and Hermitage, Tennessee. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of living in Smyrna vs Hermitage in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how Smyrna and Hermitage compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Smyrna | Hermitage |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,650 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $1,850 | $2,100 |
🏆 Winner: Smyrna. Housing costs an estimated 12-14% less in Smyrna compared to similar homes and apartments in Hermitage.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Typical monthly utility bills for a 2BR apartment:
- Smyrna: $180-$220
- Hermitage: $190-$230
Both cities experience hot summers and mild winters, so seasonal swings in energy usage are comparable. Smyrna and Hermitage offer similar off-peak electricity plans to help manage costs.
🏆 Winner: Smyrna, but only by a slight margin. Expect to pay around $10/month less for utilities in Smyrna.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs, dining out, and everyday purchases are very close between Smyrna and Hermitage. One notable difference:
- Smyrna has more discount grocery options, with stores like Aldi and Walmart Neighborhood Market
- Hermitage has a higher concentration of specialty and organic markets, which can mean higher prices for certain items
🏆 Winner: Smyrna. Budget shoppers will likely save more on groceries in Smyrna, while those who prioritize specialty items may prefer the options in Hermitage.
Taxes and Fees
Smyrna and Hermitage are both suburbs of Nashville, so they share the same base sales tax rate of 9.25%. However, there are a few differences in local taxes and fees:
- Smyrna’s property tax rate is $1.7984 per $100 of assessed value
- Hermitage’s property tax rate is $2.755 per $100 of assessed value
- Many neighborhoods in Hermitage have HOA fees ranging from $200-500/month, which often include lawn care and exterior maintenance. Fewer communities in Smyrna have mandatory HOAs.
🏆 Winner: Smyrna. Lower property taxes and fewer HOA fees give Smyrna the advantage.
Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Smyrna | Hermitage |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,450 – $1,850 | $1,650 – $2,100 |
| Utilities | $180 – $220 | $190 – $230 |
| Groceries | $400 – $600 | $450 – $650 |
| Transportation | $60 – $80 | $50 – $70 |
| Taxes | Lower | Higher |
| Miscellaneous | $200 – $400 | $250 – $450 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,290 – $3,150 | $2,590 – $3,500 |
Lifestyle Fit
While Smyrna offers a lower cost of living overall, each city has unique advantages depending on your priorities and lifestyle:
- Smyrna offers more affordable housing options, particularly for those looking to buy a home. It also has a quaint downtown area with local shops and restaurants.
- Hermitage is closer to downtown Nashville, which means a shorter commute for some. It also offers more public parks and green spaces compared to Smyrna.
Hermitage averages 1-2°F warmer than Smyrna during summer months. Both cities are prone to occasional severe storms and tornadoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Smyrna more affordable than Hermitage?
Yes, Smyrna has a lower overall cost of living, primarily due to more affordable housing and lower taxes. - Which city has lower rent?
Smyrna has lower average rent prices. Expect to pay $150-$200 less per month for a comparable apartment. - Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Smyrna offers lower prices for home buyers. The typical mortgage payment is $200-$300 less per month compared to a similar home in Hermitage.
Conclusion
While both Smyrna and Hermitage offer a high quality of life, Smyrna comes out ahead in terms of overall affordability. Smyrna is likely the better fit for:
- Home buyers looking for more affordable options
- Renters on a tighter budget
- Those who prefer a smaller-town feel while still being close to a major city
However, Hermitage may be worth the added cost for those who value a shorter commute to Nashville and more extensive park access. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific budget, lifestyle, and priorities.
To dive deeper into expenses, check out our guides on how much it costs to live in Smyrna each month and a full cost of living breakdown for Smyrna including housing, groceries, taxes and more.