Hartford vs Nashville: cost of living compared
Nashville is 8% cheaper than Hartford overall. Nashville (TN) has no state income tax; CT tops out around 5.5%.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Overall, the cost of living is noticeably higher in Hartford compared to Nashville. This difference is largely driven by significantly higher utility costs and a state income tax in Hartford, which are somewhat offset by much more affordable housing in the Connecticut capital. Other everyday expenses like food and healthcare also tend to be higher in Hartford.
Housing
Housing costs present a stark contrast between these two metros. Both home purchase prices and rental rates for a one-bedroom are considerably lower in Hartford than in Nashville. While the data provided does not detail property taxes or insurance, the initial outlay for a home or monthly rent is substantially more affordable in Hartford, making it a key factor for budget-conscious movers.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses vary significantly. Nashville benefits from no state income tax, unlike Hartford which has one. While transportation costs are roughly similar, Hartford residents can expect to pay noticeably more for food, healthcare, and especially utilities, which are substantially higher. This means more of a household budget in Hartford goes towards these essential services.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Moving between these cities involves a shift in environment. Hartford experiences distinct four seasons with colder winters and occasional snow, while Nashville has a milder, humid subtropical climate. Both are state capitals, but Nashville is generally perceived as a larger, more sprawling metro area with a faster pace, whereas Hartford offers a more traditional New England city feel. Commute times are quite comparable.
Bottom line
For households prioritizing lower housing costs, Hartford offers a clear advantage in both buying and renting. However, this saving is largely counteracted by significantly higher utility bills, a state income tax, and greater expenses for food and healthcare. Nashville, despite its higher housing prices, provides relief through lower utility costs, no state income tax, and more affordable food and healthcare, potentially balancing the overall household budget.
| Measure | Hartford, CT | Nashville, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 118 | 108 |
| Housing index | 86 | 119 |
| Transportation index | 100 | 104 |
| Food index | 108 | 98 |
| Healthcare index | 112 | 98 |
| Utilities index | 148 | 98 |
| Misc index | 108 | 95 |
| Median home price | $298,000 | $438,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,350/mo | $1,650/mo |
| Average commute | 27 min | 29 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Nashville home with the True Cost Calculator.