Tennessee has emerged as one of the premier destinations for active seniors seeking the perfect blend of championship golf, natural beauty, and vibrant community living. With its temperate climate, stunning landscapes, no state income tax, and welcoming communities, the Volunteer State offers an exceptional retirement lifestyle for golf enthusiasts.
Whether you’re looking for lakefront living, mountain views, or world-class golf courses designed by legendary architects, Tennessee’s golf retirement communities deliver an unparalleled experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 5 golf retirement communities in Tennessee that cater specifically to active seniors who refuse to let retirement slow them down.
What Makes Tennessee Ideal for Golf Retirement Communities?
Before diving into our top picks, let’s explore why Tennessee has become such a hotspot for golf retirement communities:
Tax Advantages: Tennessee has no state income tax, allowing retirees to keep more of their retirement savings, pensions, and Social Security benefits.
Four-Season Golf: The temperate climate means you can enjoy golf year-round, with mild winters and beautiful springs and falls perfect for the links.
Natural Beauty: From the Great Smoky Mountains to pristine lakes and rolling hills, Tennessee’s landscapes provide stunning backdrops for golf courses and outdoor activities.
Lower Cost of Living: Compared to coastal retirement destinations, Tennessee offers exceptional value without sacrificing amenities or quality of life.
Healthcare Excellence: Major medical centers in Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga provide world-class healthcare options nearby.
Top 5 Golf Retirement Communities in Tennessee for Active Seniors
1. WindRiver – Lenoir City, Tennessee
Location: Nestled along the pristine shores of Tellico Lake in East Tennessee
Golf Course: Championship 18-hole course
Community Type: Gated lakefront and golf community
WindRiver stands out as East Tennessee’s premier golf retirement community, offering an extraordinary combination of lakefront luxury and championship golf. This gated community has become the gold standard for active seniors seeking a comprehensive lifestyle experience.
Why WindRiver Ranks #1:
Championship Golf Experience: The meticulously maintained 18-hole championship golf course offers challenging play for all skill levels, with stunning lake and mountain views throughout the course. The course design takes full advantage of the natural terrain, creating memorable holes that keep golfers coming back.
Dual Amenity Lifestyle: What sets WindRiver apart is the rare combination of both premier golf and marina facilities. Residents can tee off in the morning and take their boat out on Tellico Lake in the afternoon—a lifestyle very few communities can offer.
Comprehensive Amenities:
- State-of-the-art marina with boat slips and water sports
- Citico’s Restaurant for fine dining
- Pool and sports complex for year-round fitness
- Extensive trail system for hiking and biking
- Brightwater Park for outdoor recreation
- Clubhouse Village (under construction) – designed as the premier centerpiece amenity
Real Estate Options: WindRiver offers diverse options from custom homesites to move-in-ready estate homes across three distinctive neighborhoods:
- The Highlands – elevated homesites with panoramic views
- Driftwood Park – lakefront and lakeview properties
- Navigator – new floor plans and modern designs
Active Senior Programs: The community emphasizes an active lifestyle with organized social events, golf tournaments, wellness programs, and a calendar full of activities designed for engaged retirees.
Strategic Location: Just 30 minutes from Knoxville and close to the Great Smoky Mountains, residents enjoy easy access to cultural attractions, medical facilities, shopping, and outdoor adventures.
Discovery Tours: WindRiver offers comprehensive discovery tours for prospective residents, allowing you to experience the lifestyle firsthand before making your decision.
What Residents Say: The community consistently receives glowing testimonials from residents who praise the welcoming atmosphere, exceptional amenities, and unmatched quality of life.
2. Tellico Village – Loudon, Tennessee
Location: Also located in the Tellico Lake region
Golf Courses: Three championship 18-hole courses
Community Type: Large established golf community
Tellico Village is one of Tennessee’s largest and most established golf retirement communities, offering three distinct championship golf courses that provide variety and challenge for avid golfers.
Key Features:
- Three 18-hole courses: Toqua, Tanasi, and The Links at Kahite
- Extensive recreational facilities including yacht club and wellness center
- Over 850 acres of lakes and green space
- Active social calendar with 120+ clubs and organizations
- Full-service village with dining, shopping, and services
Best For: Seniors who want multiple course options and an extremely active social environment with established programs and clubs.
3. Fairfield Glade – Crossville, Tennessee
Location: Cumberland Plateau in Middle Tennessee
Golf Courses: Five championship courses
Community Type: Mountain golf resort community
Perched atop the scenic Cumberland Plateau, Fairfield Glade offers cool mountain summers and five exceptional golf courses, making it a paradise for golf enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- Five 18-hole courses including Stonehenge, one of Tennessee’s top-rated courses
- 12 lakes for fishing and boating
- Extensive recreation complex with indoor and outdoor pools
- Lower elevation means cooler summer temperatures
- Affordable real estate options
Best For: Golfers who want multiple course variety and prefer cooler mountain climates.
4. The Golf Club of Tennessee – Kingston Springs, Tennessee
Location: Just west of Nashville
Golf Course: Championship course designed by Willard Byrd
Community Type: Private golf club community
Located in the rolling hills near Nashville, this community offers proximity to Music City’s culture and entertainment along with excellent golf.
Key Features:
- Award-winning golf course with mature landscaping
- Private club atmosphere with lower membership costs than urban clubs
- Close to Nashville’s healthcare, dining, and entertainment
- Quiet, peaceful setting despite proximity to the city
Best For: Active seniors who want golf club amenities with easy access to urban culture and medical facilities.
5. Bear Trace at Harrison Bay – Harrison, Tennessee
Location: Near Chattanooga on Chickamauga Lake
Golf Course: Jack Nicklaus Signature Design course
Community Type: Public course with surrounding residential options
This Jack Nicklaus-designed course offers stunning lake views and challenging play in the Chattanooga area.
Key Features:
- Jack Nicklaus Signature Design with lake views
- Public course access (non-private)
- Proximity to Chattanooga attractions
- More affordable than private communities
- Chickamauga Lake water activities
Best For: Seniors seeking a Nicklaus-designed course experience without private club costs and who want proximity to Chattanooga.
Comparing the Top Golf Retirement Communities in Tennessee
When choosing among Tennessee’s golf retirement communities, consider these key factors:
Golf Quality & Variety:
- WindRiver: One championship course with lake/mountain views
- Tellico Village: Three championship courses
- Fairfield Glade: Five courses with variety
- Golf Club of Tennessee: One premium course
- Bear Trace: One Jack Nicklaus Signature course
Lifestyle Amenities Beyond Golf:
- WindRiver leads with dual golf and marina lifestyle on Tellico Lake
- Tellico Village offers the most clubs and social organizations
- Fairfield Glade provides mountain recreation and multiple lakes
Location & Accessibility:
- WindRiver: 30 minutes to Knoxville, close to Smoky Mountains
- Tellico Village: Similar East Tennessee location
- Fairfield Glade: Central location on Cumberland Plateau
- Golf Club of Tennessee: Best access to Nashville
- Bear Trace: Close to Chattanooga
Real Estate Options:
- WindRiver: Custom homes, homesites, various neighborhoods with lakefront/golf options
- Others vary in pricing and customization opportunities
What to Look for in a Golf Retirement Community
As you evaluate golf retirement communities in Tennessee, keep these important considerations in mind:
Golf Course Quality
Look beyond just the number of holes. Consider course maintenance, design quality, challenge level, and how well the course fits your skill level. Ask about tee time availability and whether the course can accommodate your preferred pace of play.
Membership Structure
Understand the membership costs, including initiation fees, monthly dues, and any assessments. Some communities have equity memberships, while others are non-equity. Determine what level of golf access comes with home ownership versus separate club membership.
Healthcare Proximity
Ensure quality healthcare facilities are within reasonable distance. Most active seniors are healthy, but proximity to hospitals and medical specialists becomes increasingly important.
Community Culture
Visit multiple times and talk to current residents. Is the community welcoming? Are there people you’d enjoy spending time with? Does the activity level match your expectations?
Financial Stability
Research the community’s financial health, homeowners association strength, and future development plans. A well-managed community protects your investment.
Climate Considerations
Tennessee’s climate varies by region. East Tennessee (WindRiver, Tellico Village) offers four distinct seasons with mild winters. The Cumberland Plateau (Fairfield Glade) has cooler summers. Consider which climate best suits your preferences.
Beyond Golf Amenities
What else matters to you? Water activities, fitness facilities, hiking trails, dining options, cultural activities? The best communities offer diverse amenities that support an active, well-rounded lifestyle.
The WindRiver Advantage: Why It’s Tennessee’s Premier Golf Retirement Community
While all five communities on this list offer excellent golf and retirement living, WindRiver distinguishes itself through its unique combination of advantages:
The Rare Lake and Golf Combination: Very few communities anywhere offer both championship golf AND a full-service marina on a pristine lake. This dual amenity lifestyle means your recreation options are virtually unlimited.
Gated Security with Natural Beauty: The 24/7 gated security provides peace of mind, while the 1,000+ acres of natural beauty create a private sanctuary away from urban congestion.
Investment in the Future: The under-construction Clubhouse Village demonstrates WindRiver’s commitment to continually enhancing the community with world-class amenities designed specifically for members’ diverse interests.
Premier Location: The proximity to Knoxville provides urban conveniences, while the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers endless outdoor adventure—all within Tennessee’s favorable tax environment.
Customization Options: Whether you want to build your dream custom home with premier builders, select from new floor plans in the Navigator neighborhood, or move into a ready estate home, WindRiver accommodates various preferences and timelines.
White-Glove Discovery Experience: The comprehensive Discovery Tour program allows you to truly experience the WindRiver lifestyle, including golf, dining, and amenities, before making your decision.
Making Your Decision: Next Steps
Choosing the right golf retirement community is one of life’s most important decisions. Here’s how to move forward:
1. Schedule Discovery Visits: Don’t rely solely on websites and brochures. Visit your top communities in person, preferably during different seasons if possible. WindRiver’s Discovery Tour program is specifically designed to give you a comprehensive experience of life in the community.
2. Play the Courses: Request guest golf privileges to play the courses. How you feel about the golf will significantly impact your daily happiness.
3. Talk to Residents: Current residents provide the most honest insights. Ask them what they love and what they wish they’d known before moving.
4. Review Financials: Work with your financial advisor to understand the total cost of ownership, including HOA fees, club dues, property taxes, and maintenance costs.
5. Consider Your Timeline: Some communities have immediate availability while others may require building. Align your timeline with your retirement plans.
6. Evaluate Resale Value: Research property appreciation trends in each community to understand your investment’s potential.
Frequently Asked Questions About Golf Retirement Communities in Tennessee
Q: Can I play golf year-round in Tennessee?
A: Yes! Tennessee’s temperate climate allows for year-round golf, though you may have occasional winter days when weather limits play. The shoulder seasons (spring and fall) offer ideal conditions.
Q: Do I need to be a golfer to live in these communities?
A: No. While golf is a central amenity, these communities offer diverse activities and amenities for non-golfers. Many couples include one avid golfer and one who prefers other activities—communities like WindRiver excel at serving both.
Q: What’s the typical age range in these communities?
A: Most residents are between 55-75, though some communities have residents in their 40s and 80s. The emphasis is on “active” lifestyle rather than a specific age.
Q: Are these communities age-restricted?
A: Policies vary by community. Some have age restrictions (typically 55+), while others are open to all ages but naturally attract retirees. Confirm specific policies when researching.
Q: How do healthcare options compare to my current location?
A: Tennessee offers excellent healthcare, particularly near major cities. Communities near Knoxville, Nashville, and Chattanooga have easy access to top-rated medical centers and specialists.
Q: What are the property tax implications?
A: Tennessee has relatively moderate property taxes compared to many states, and the lack of state income tax often results in significant overall tax savings for retirees.
Conclusion: Your Perfect Golf Retirement Awaits in Tennessee
Tennessee’s golf retirement communities offer active seniors an exceptional quality of life combining championship golf, natural beauty, financial advantages, and welcoming communities. Whether you prioritize multiple golf courses, specific amenities, location, or overall lifestyle, the Volunteer State has a community that fits your vision of the perfect retirement.
While each community on this list offers distinct advantages, WindRiver’s unique combination of championship golf, lakefront living with marina access, comprehensive amenities, and premier location in East Tennessee makes it the top choice for discerning active seniors seeking the ultimate golf retirement lifestyle.
The next chapter of your life should be filled with the activities you love, surrounded by people who share your passions, in a place of exceptional beauty. Tennessee’s golf retirement communities—and especially WindRiver—deliver on this promise.
Ready to experience the WindRiver difference? Schedule your Discovery Tour today and see why so many active seniors are choosing WindRiver as their premier golf retirement destination. Visit windriverliving.com/discovery-tour or call 865-988-1864 to begin your journey to the retirement lifestyle you’ve always imagined.
About WindRiver Living
WindRiver is East Tennessee’s premier gated lakefront and golf community, located on the pristine shores of Tellico Lake in Lenoir City, Tennessee. Offering championship golf, state-of-the-art marina facilities, comprehensive amenities, and diverse real estate options, WindRiver provides active seniors with an unparalleled retirement lifestyle. With its proximity to Knoxville and the Great Smoky Mountains, combined with Tennessee’s favorable tax climate, WindRiver represents the pinnacle of golf retirement living in the Southeast.
