Retire Tennessee, the state’s retiree recruitment program under the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, announced the addition of Campbell, Henderson, Monroe and Washington counties, bringing the total number of active Retire Tennessee counties to 23.
“We are very pleased to expand this important program for Tennessee,” Commissioner Kevin Triplett, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development said.
“These four new counties, bringing the total to 23, have so much to offer those making retirement decisions. Tennessee’s low cost of living, no state income tax, low property taxes, four mild seasons, incredible quality of living and breathtaking scenic beauty offer an ideal package for retirees looking to relocate.”
Additional official retiree counties include Anderson, Carter, Cumberland, Franklin, Hamblen, Hamilton, Hardin, Jefferson, Loudon, Maury, Putnam, Rhea, Roane, Robertson, Sullivan, Sumner, Unicoi, Warren and White.
Now in its tenth year, Retire Tennessee inspired more than 8,000 inquiries from potential retirees last year. Tennessee is one of only four states with retiree recruitment as a formal program and continues to gain momentum as a potential retirement destination for more than 78 million baby boomers. Tennessee was recently ranked No. 4 in the 10 Best States for Retirement 2016 by Kiplinger.com, the popular personal finance and business publication.
Ramay Winchester, director of tourism initiatives, has managed the Retire Tennessee program since its inception and has seen firsthand the effects of the program on each of its communities.
“The success of this program is evidence of Tennessee’s remarkable quality of life. Our Retire Tennessee counties are the crown jewels in attracting new residents that bring even more value to our state,” Winchester said. “Active retirees relocating to these communities help stimulate the economy, while bringing their knowledge and time to invest in their new community.”
“Retirees have recognized tremendous value along the Norris Lake shoreline and along Tennessee’s Cumberland Mountain Range for decades,” Campbell County Mayor E.L. Morton said. “It is fitting that we nest our value, easy I-75 access and attraction qualities within the strength of the Retire Tennessee brand. It represents a growth opportunity for our community and our commitment to continue to create unmatched retirement living value; a natural and ready fit.”
“Henderson County is excited about participating in the Retire Tennessee program,” said Henderson County Mayor Dan Hughes. “This gives us the opportunity to showcase our cities and county. From our seven lakes to the state's largest park to an antigenic Civil War battlefield to a way of life people yearn for daily. We are located on I-40 in West Tennessee.”
“We are excited for Monroe County to be a part of the state sponsored Retire Tennessee program. Monroe County is nestled between Knoxville and Chattanooga and is known for its friendly atmosphere, mild climate, unmatched beauty and unique historical sites,” Monroe County Mayor Tim Yates said. “Monroe County has an abundance of commercial properties and expanding businesses and the economic growth is stronger than ever. If you love being outdoors we have the Cherohala Skyway which you can bike, hike or just site see in the Cherokee National Forest. Monroe County also has a very low tax rate which makes it a desirable area to relocate, with a vibrant retirement community.”
“The characteristics and amenities of our community are attractive to many potential retirees. Having the Retire Tennessee designation will enhance our efforts to attract those planning to relocate and looking for a new community to call home,” Washington County Mayor Dan Eldridge said.
The numbers of inquiries to Tennessee from advertising and expos were at a high this past year. The attendance at the Ideal Living Resort & Retirement Expos set new records. Carefully chosen expo locations in New York, New Jersey, Illinois and greater Washington, D.C. were the best attended. Interest in Tennessee is up 22 percent compared to 7 percent eight years ago.