Thousands of Tennesseans make the move to Southwest Florida each year, trading the rolling hills of Nashville and Memphis for the Gulf Coast's beaches and year-round sunshine. The I-75 corridor has become a well-worn path for former Volunteer State residents seeking a warmer retirement, a change of pace, or simply an escape from increasingly cold winters.
The move makes sense on paper: both states have no income tax, Florida offers a beach lifestyle Tennessee can't match, and the 10-hour drive means staying connected with family back home. But there are significant differences in cost of living, culture, and daily life that deserve careful consideration.
This guide compares Tennessee to Southwest Florida across every dimension that matters—taxes, climate, healthcare, culture, and more—to help you decide if the move is right for you.
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Quick Comparison: Tennessee vs. Southwest Florida
| Factor | Tennessee (Nashville/Memphis) | Southwest Florida (Naples/Fort Myers) |
|---|---|---|
| State Income Tax | None | None |
| Sales Tax | 7% + local (9.25% total average) | 6% + local (7% total average) |
| Property Tax Rate | 0.66% average | 0.89% average |
| Median Home Price | $400K (Nashville), $215K (Memphis) | $400K-$700K (varies by city) |
| Climate | Four seasons, cold winters | Subtropical, mild winters, hot summers |
| Beach Access | None (rivers/lakes only) | 200+ miles of Gulf beaches |
| Major Airports | BNA (Nashville), MEM (Memphis) | RSW (50+ direct destinations) |
| Distance Apart | — | ~10 hours driving |
Why Tennesseans Are Moving to Southwest Florida
The No-Income-Tax Connection
Tennessee and Florida share a critical advantage: neither state taxes personal income. This makes the transition financially smooth—your retirement income, Social Security, pensions, and investment returns remain untaxed after the move.
However, Florida's sales tax is actually lower than Tennessee's. Tennessee has one of the highest combined sales tax rates in the country (averaging 9.25%), while Florida's averages around 7%. For everyday purchases, you'll actually save money in Florida.
The Climate Upgrade
Tennessee's climate is pleasant for much of the year, but winters can be genuinely cold—Nashville averages lows in the upper 20s°F in January, with occasional ice storms and snow. Memphis is slightly milder but still experiences freezing temperatures.
Southwest Florida's winter? Highs in the 70s°F, lows in the 50s°F, and virtually no chance of ice or snow. For retirees tired of layering up from November to March, the climate upgrade alone justifies the move.
Beach Lifestyle Access
Tennessee offers lakes and rivers—Percy Priest, Old Hickory, Norris—but no ocean beaches. Southwest Florida delivers 200+ miles of Gulf Coast shoreline, from Sarasota's Siesta Key (America's #1 beach) to Marco Island's pristine stretches.
For beach lovers, there's simply no comparison.
Visit before you decide—explore neighborhoods across SWFL
Fort Myers Hotels → Naples Hotels →
Tax Comparison: Tennessee vs. Florida
Both states are tax-friendly, but the details differ.
What's Taxed
| Tax Type | Tennessee | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Income Tax | None | None |
| Social Security | Not taxed | Not taxed |
| Pensions | Not taxed | Not taxed |
| 401K/IRA Withdrawals | Not taxed | Not taxed |
| Sales Tax | 7% + local (avg 9.25%) | 6% + local (avg 7%) |
| Property Tax | ~0.66% | ~0.89% |
| Estate Tax | None | None |
The Real Tax Impact
Lower sales tax in Florida: Tennessee's combined state/local sales tax often exceeds 9%, while most of Southwest Florida sits around 7%. On annual purchases of $30,000, that's a $675 savings.
Higher property tax in Florida: Florida's property tax rate is higher, but the Homestead Exemption offsets this significantly. Florida residents receive a $50,000 exemption on their primary residence. On a $400,000 home, this saves roughly $450-$550 annually.
Net result: For most retirees, the tax burden is roughly equivalent, with Florida potentially edging ahead on everyday spending due to lower sales tax.
Cost of Living Comparison
Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest variable. Tennessee—especially Nashville—has seen explosive growth, but Southwest Florida's desirable areas still command a premium.
| Location | Median Home Price (2026) | Median Rent (2BR) |
|---|---|---|
| Nashville, TN | $425,000 | $1,800 |
| Memphis, TN | $215,000 | $1,100 |
| Knoxville, TN | $350,000 | $1,400 |
| Fort Myers, FL | $400,000 | $1,900 |
| Cape Coral, FL | $400,000 | $1,800 |
| Naples, FL | $700,000+ | $2,500 |
| Port Charlotte, FL | $300,000 | $1,500 |
| Sarasota, FL | $500,000 | $2,200 |
For Nashville transplants: Fort Myers and Cape Coral offer comparable pricing with beach access. Naples is a significant upgrade in price.
For Memphis transplants: Expect housing costs to roughly double in most SWFL markets. Port Charlotte offers the closest value comparison.
Insurance Reality Check
This is where Florida gets expensive. Homeowners insurance in Florida—especially coastal areas—runs significantly higher than Tennessee.
| Insurance Type | Tennessee (Annual) | Florida (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Homeowners | $1,500-$2,500 | $3,500-$8,000+ |
| Flood Insurance | Rarely needed | $500-$3,000+ |
| Auto Insurance | $1,200-$1,800 | $1,800-$2,500 |
Florida's insurance market has been challenging, with premiums rising significantly in recent years. Factor this into any relocation budget—it can add $2,000-$5,000+ annually to your housing costs.
Monthly Budget Comparison
| Expense | Tennessee (Nashville) | SWFL (Fort Myers) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (mortgage/rent) | $2,200 | $2,500 | +$300 |
| Utilities | $175 | $225 | +$50 |
| Insurance (home + auto) | $275 | $500 | +$225 |
| Groceries | $600 | $650 | +$50 |
| Healthcare | $400 | $400 | — |
| Transportation | $350 | $350 | — |
| Entertainment | $300 | $350 | +$50 |
| Monthly Total | $4,300 | $4,975 | +$675 |
Estimates for a retired couple. Actual costs vary significantly by location and lifestyle.
Discover boat tours, beach excursions & local activities during your visit
Browse SWFL Tours →
Plan Your Southwest Florida Scouting Visit
Compare short-stay options and local tours so you can evaluate neighborhoods in person.
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Plan Your Week in Southwest Florida
Use these high-intent guides to plan where to stay, what to do, and what to book next.
Southwest Florida Guide
Start with our full local guide to Southwest Florida neighborhoods, dining, and attractions.
Open GuideSouthwest Florida Events
Find festivals, markets, concerts, and local happenings for the week ahead.
Open GuideBest Things to Do in Southwest Florida
High-intent itinerary ideas for visitors and locals.
Open GuideSouthwest Florida Restaurant Guide
Find top-rated spots for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Open GuideSouthwest Florida Beach Guide
Find the best beach access points, parking, and sunset spots.
Open GuideSouthwest Florida Retirement Guide
Review neighborhoods, lifestyle fit, and retirement costs.
Open GuideKeep Planning in Southwest Florida
Climate Differences
Temperature Comparison
| Month | Nashville High/Low | Memphis High/Low | Fort Myers High/Low |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 47°/28°F | 49°/31°F | 75°/54°F |
| April | 71°/49°F | 73°/52°F | 85°/64°F |
| July | 90°/71°F | 92°/74°F | 91°/75°F |
| October | 72°/49°F | 74°/52°F | 86°/69°F |
What Tennesseans Should Know
Winter: Southwest Florida delivers what you're looking for—warm, sunny days with minimal rain. January-March is peak season, drawing visitors from across the country. Expect crowded beaches and restaurants during this period.
Summer: Here's the trade-off. Florida summers are hot and humid—more so than Tennessee. Daily afternoon thunderstorms are the norm from June through September. Air conditioning isn't optional; it's survival equipment.
Hurricane season (June-November): This is Florida's biggest weather concern. Major hurricanes are infrequent but impactful. Most SWFL residents have experienced evacuation at some point. Insurance, hurricane shutters, and preparation become part of life.
No more ice storms: Tennessee's ice storms and winter weather events are eliminated. No more scraped windshields, icy roads, or heating bills that spike in January.
Culture & Lifestyle Adjustment
What's Different
Pace of life: Southwest Florida moves slower, especially outside Naples' urban areas. This is intentional—people come here to relax. If you thrive on Nashville's energy and music scene, the adjustment may take time.
Music scene: Tennessee, particularly Nashville, has a music culture Florida can't match. SWFL offers live music—sunset tiki bars, jazz clubs, theater shows—but nothing approaching Broadway honky-tonks or Beale Street blues.
Food culture: Tennessee's food identity (hot chicken, BBQ, Southern comfort) is distinct. SWFL offers excellent seafood, fresh Gulf catches, and a more diverse culinary scene, but you'll miss authentic Southern cooking.
Sports: Tennessee has the Titans (NFL), Predators (NHL), and Grizzlies (NBA). SWFL has spring training baseball and minor league teams, but no major professional sports. Tampa teams (Bucs, Lightning, Rays) are 2-3 hours away.
What's Similar
Southern hospitality: Both regions share friendly, welcoming cultures. You'll find churches, community organizations, and neighborly attitudes in both places.
Outdoor lifestyle: Both Tennessee and Southwest Florida offer abundant outdoor recreation—just different varieties. Lakes and mountains in Tennessee; beaches and boating in Florida.
Conservative politics: Both regions lean conservative politically, though Florida's mix includes more transplants from across the country.
Golf: Both regions have excellent golf. SWFL arguably has an edge with year-round playing conditions.
Healthcare Comparison
Hospital Systems
Tennessee:
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center (Nashville) - Academic medical center
- Baptist Memorial Health Care (Memphis) - Regional system
- Ascension Saint Thomas - Multi-hospital system
Southwest Florida:
- NCH Healthcare System (Naples) - Award-winning cardiac and stroke programs
- Lee Health (Fort Myers) - Five hospitals including Level II trauma center
- Sarasota Memorial - Teaching hospital with comprehensive services
Healthcare Quality
Both regions offer quality healthcare. Tennessee has Vanderbilt—a nationally ranked academic medical center—while SWFL has multiple excellent regional systems. For routine care, SWFL is well-equipped. For complex cases, Cleveland Clinic's Weston facility is 90 minutes from Naples.
Seasonal consideration: SWFL healthcare facilities get busier during peak season (January-April) as the population swells with seasonal residents. Appointment wait times may increase.
Medicare Acceptance
Both regions have strong Medicare acceptance. SWFL's large retiree population means healthcare systems are well-versed in Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans.
Best SWFL Cities for Tennesseans
Based on what transplants from Tennessee typically prioritize, here are the best matches:
Fort Myers — Best for Nashville Transplants
- Why: Most similar population/urban feel, diverse neighborhoods, good airport
- Character: Mix of downtown urban, suburban, and beach access
- Cost: Median home ~$400K (comparable to Nashville suburbs)
- Highlights: River District downtown, Lee Health hospital system, RSW airport
Cape Coral — Best for Value Seekers
- Why: Best waterfront value in SWFL, boating lifestyle, newer construction
- Character: Canal-centric suburban, younger than typical SWFL
- Cost: Median home ~$400K with Gulf access options
- Highlights: 400+ miles of canals, good for anglers and boaters
Port Charlotte — Best for Memphis Transplants
- Why: Most affordable SWFL option, similar pricing to Memphis suburbs
- Character: Unpretentious, growing, Charlotte Harbor access
- Cost: Median home ~$300K (SWFL's best value)
- Highlights: Sunseeker Resort, fishing community, lower cost of living
Naples — Best for Upscale Relocation
- Why: Premier destination, world-class amenities, excellent healthcare
- Character: Upscale, cultural, beautiful beaches
- Cost: Median home $700K+ (significant upgrade from Tennessee)
- Highlights: Fifth Avenue South, pristine beaches, NCH Healthcare
Sarasota — Best for Arts & Culture Lovers
- Why: Florida's cultural capital, arts scene closest to Nashville's creativity
- Character: Artsy, sophisticated, excellent beaches
- Cost: Median home ~$500K
- Highlights: Ringling Museum, Siesta Key Beach, vibrant downtown
Spend a week or more experiencing different neighborhoods
Cape Coral Hotels → Sarasota Hotels →
Moving Logistics & Timeline
The Drive
The I-75 corridor makes the Tennessee-to-Florida drive straightforward:
| From | To Fort Myers | To Naples |
|---|---|---|
| Nashville | ~10 hours (620 miles) | ~10.5 hours (650 miles) |
| Memphis | ~11 hours (680 miles) | ~11.5 hours (710 miles) |
| Knoxville | ~9.5 hours (580 miles) | ~10 hours (610 miles) |
Route: I-24 or I-40 to I-75 South through Atlanta and down through Florida. Straightforward, well-maintained interstate driving.
Recommended Timeline
12+ months before moving:
- Visit SWFL in different seasons (winter AND summer)
- Research specific cities using our city guides
- Get preliminary insurance quotes
- Start tracking home prices in target areas
6-12 months before:
- Narrow to specific neighborhoods
- Work with local realtors specializing in relocation
- Get mortgage pre-approval if needed
- Begin downsizing
3-6 months before:
- Make offers on homes
- Secure homeowners and flood insurance (required before closing)
- Book movers (book early for peak season moves Oct-April)
- Schedule utility transfers
After moving:
- Obtain Florida driver's license within 30 days
- Register vehicles in Florida
- Register to vote
- File Declaration of Domicile with county clerk
- File for Homestead Exemption by March 1 (critical for property tax savings)
- Update estate planning documents for Florida law compliance
Pros and Cons: Tennessee to SWFL Move
Pros
✅ Year-round warm weather - No more cold winters, ice storms, or heating bills
✅ Beach lifestyle access - 200+ miles of Gulf beaches vs. lakes/rivers
✅ Lower sales tax - Save ~2% on everyday purchases
✅ No state income tax (both) - Smooth financial transition
✅ Easy drive home - 10 hours to visit family in Tennessee
✅ Excellent healthcare - Multiple award-winning hospital systems
✅ Active retirement lifestyle - Golf, boating, fishing year-round
Cons
❌ Higher insurance costs - Homeowners insurance 2-3x higher than Tennessee
❌ Hurricane risk - Annual preparation and occasional evacuations
❌ Summer heat - June-September is hot, humid, and stormy
❌ Higher housing costs - Most SWFL areas cost more than Tennessee
❌ Seasonal crowding - January-April brings traffic and crowded restaurants
❌ Cultural adjustment - Less music scene, different food culture
❌ No major pro sports - Nearest NFL/NBA/NHL teams 2-3 hours away
Book tours and activities to experience the lifestyle before you move
Naples Tours → Sarasota Tours →
Suggested 4-Day Relocation Scouting Loop
If you are driving down from Tennessee to evaluate neighborhoods, run one focused scouting loop instead of random tours:
- Day 1: Compare Fort Myers neighborhoods plus healthcare and grocery access.
- Day 2: Test Cape Coral if canal living and boating are priorities.
- Day 3: Spend a premium-comparison day in Naples.
- Day 4: Use one value benchmark city like Port Charlotte before making your shortlist.
This sequence gives you clear contrast between lifestyle tiers and keeps your decision anchored in daily practicality, not only vacation impressions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to live in Tennessee or Florida?
Overall, Tennessee has a lower cost of living, primarily due to lower housing and insurance costs. However, Florida's lower sales tax helps offset some of the difference. Port Charlotte and Cape Coral offer SWFL living at costs closer to Tennessee averages.
Which state has better taxes: Tennessee or Florida?
Both states have no income tax, making them among the most tax-friendly in the country. Florida has lower sales tax (7% vs 9.25%), while Tennessee has lower property tax (0.66% vs 0.89%). For most households, the tax burden is roughly equivalent.
How long is the drive from Nashville to Southwest Florida?
Nashville to Fort Myers is approximately 10 hours (620 miles) via I-24 and I-75. To Naples, add about 30 minutes. Memphis to Fort Myers is approximately 11 hours (680 miles).
Is Florida too hot for Tennessee residents?
Florida summers (June-September) are hotter and more humid than Tennessee summers. However, modern air conditioning makes this manageable, and most transplants adapt within a year. The trade-off is no cold winters, ice, or snow.
What about hurricanes?
Hurricane season runs June through November, with September being the highest-risk month. Major hurricanes affecting Southwest Florida are relatively rare but do occur. Modern construction meets strict codes, and proper preparation (shutters, supplies, evacuation plans) is essential.
Can I easily visit Tennessee after moving?
Yes. The 10-hour drive is manageable for periodic visits, and Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) offers direct flights to Nashville (BNA). Many transplants visit family in Tennessee 2-4 times per year.
Which SWFL city is most like Nashville?
Fort Myers offers the closest urban feel with its River District downtown, diverse neighborhoods, and regional amenities. Sarasota matches Nashville's arts and culture scene better. No SWFL city replicates Nashville's music culture.
Do I need a car in Southwest Florida?
Yes. Unlike some northern cities, SWFL is car-dependent. Public transportation exists but is limited. Most residents drive everywhere.
Start Your Southwest Florida Journey
Ready to explore? Visit our detailed guides for each SWFL destination:
City Guides
- Retiring to Naples
- Retiring to Fort Myers
- Retiring to Cape Coral
- Retiring to Sarasota
- Retiring to Port Charlotte
Regional Overview
Things to Do
Find hotels across Southwest Florida for your scouting trip
Browse SWFL Hotels →
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