About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2026 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2026 Memory Care Winners
About Independent LivingIndependent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to independent livingBest of 2026 Independent Living Winners
About Senior LivingSenior living is a term used to describe various housing and care options for older adults from maintenance-free, 55+ facilities for active seniors, to secure, fully staffed facilities for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia. Complete guide to senior livingFind senior living facilities near you
About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
About Senior ApartmentsSenior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to Senior Apartments
About Care HomesResidential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.Complete guide to care homes
Veteran ResourcesVA benefits for long-term care, such as Aid and Attendance benefits, can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for senior care.Guide to VA benefits for long-term care
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10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Knoxville, TN

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According to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data, the average starting cost for assisted living in Knoxville, Tennessee, is $4,194 per month. Using our trusted ranking methodology, highly rated assisted living communities in the area include StoryPoint Knoxville West, Knoxville Landing and Windsor Ridge, giving families a helpful starting point as they begin comparing care options for an aging parent or loved one.

Assisted living in Knoxville reflects the area’s balance of urban convenience, access to well-established healthcare systems, and close-knit neighborhoods. Many assisted living communities are located near major medical providers, which can make it easier to coordinate ongoing care and access specialists when needed. Knoxville also offers a mix of historic residential areas, a strong sense of community, and a cost of living that’s generally more moderate than larger metropolitan markets.

This guide is designed to help you understand what assisted living looks like in Knoxville and support you through each stage of the decision-making process. You’ll find information on local costs, common payment options, Tennessee’s licensing and regulatory standards, senior-friendly activities for residents and visiting family members, and local resources that can help you move forward with greater clarity and confidence as you plan next steps for your loved one.

Knoxville Assisted Living Facilities | 965 Reviews

Showing 33 communities
Last Updated: 5/9/26
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The highest-rated senior living communities stand out for their exceptional care and support of seniors in independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Our Best of Senior Living Award winners represent the top reviewed senior care providers nationwide based on reviews submitted by residents and families.

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Photo of The Courtyards at Knoxville - The Meadows
77 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of The Courtyards at Knoxville - The Gardens
5 star
80%
4 star
20%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
My aunt lives at The Courtyards in Knoxville. Every time I call and talk with her. She goes on about how amazing the food tastes. She says it's homecooked, always fresh and hot, and how amazing the staff is.
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
We are a secured community that specializes in caring for those with dementia.  Our premises are safe and secure with keypads designed for safe entry and more importantly, safe exits.   We have private and semi-private rooms.  Our rooms are approximately 245 square feet...
Photo of Atria Lakebrook Place
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
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Explore Assisted Living in Knoxville
Photo of Shannondale of Knoxville
3.0
Review score
6 reviews
3.0
Review score
6 reviews
5 star
66%
4 star
17%
3 star
17%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
Our mom has lived at Shannondale Assisted Living for about 4 years. While her mind and body have declined during her 90 years, we find peace in the fact that she is so happy everyday. The staff at...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Shannondale Assisted Living
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Autumn Care Assisted Living
5 star
25%
4 star
50%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
25%
See all reviews
Beautiful facility with a band new exquisite wing adding 20 suites. Staff is wonderful, caring & attentive. I’ve had experience with other properties who look great in appearance and talk it up in the tour,...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Autumn Care Assisted Living Autumn Care Assisted Living is an assisted living community taking care of seniors and is nestled among the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in Knoxville, Tennessee. Our assisted living community has beautiful outdoor patio and garden areas that give our...
Photo of Autumn Care
5 star
29%
4 star
43%
3 star
0%
2 star
14%
1 star
14%
See all reviews
We've had a very good experience with Autumn Care, overall! The facility itself looks very nice, they do a great job of keeping it clean, and there's usually some sort of activity going on for the residents....
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Autumn Care Autumn Care is a family-owned assisted living community in scenic Knoxville, Knox County, Tennessee. Our cozy, welcoming community is located in a quiet residential neighborhood surrounded by mature trees and lush green lawns. Knoxville offers the perfect mix of Southern hospitality,...
Photo of Nhc Place Cavette Hill
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
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Our methodology

How we rank order the Knoxville community options above

We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Knoxville community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:

  • Proximity to your search location
  • Availability of recent, high-quality reviews
  • The amount of detailed community information available

Where we source our information

14,000+ communities

We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information

350,000+ reviews

We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities

Read our full methodology

How much does assisted living cost in Knoxville, TN?

In Knoxville, the average starting cost of assisted living is $4,194 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[01] This starting rate typically covers housing, daily meals, and basic personal care services. Monthly costs can rise over time depending on your loved one’s care needs, the community’s location, the apartment style you choose, and any additional services or amenities that are added.

According to the Economic Research Institute, Knoxville’s overall cost of living is about 5% less than the national average and 7% higher than Tennessee’s state average.[02] Assisted living costs in Knoxville are in line with Tennessee’s statewide average of $4,374 and remain lower than the national average of $4,784, which can make the area an appealing option for families balancing quality care with affordability.

When comparing other senior living options in Knoxville, assisted living is generally more affordable than memory care, which averages about $4,182 per month, and independent living, which averages around $3,609 per month. While it may seem unexpected that assisted living can cost less than independent living, the difference often comes down to pricing models. Independent living communities typically charge all-inclusive monthly rates, while assisted living communities usually start with a base rate and add fees as care needs increase.

Read more: Assisted Living vs. Memory Care: 5 Key Differences

The charts below are also based on average starting costs and do not include fees for care services or any other additional expenses.

Assisted living costs in Knoxville, TN, vs. nearby cities

Knoxville, TN
$4,194/mo
$4,163/mo
$4,127/mo

Assisted living costs in Knoxville, TN, vs. state and national averages

Knoxville, TN
$4,194/mo
U.S. national average
$4,784/mo

Assisted living costs in Knoxville, TN, vs. other senior living options

Assisted Living
$4,194/mo
$4,230/mo

Assisted living costs in Knoxville, TN, by floor plan type

Semi-Private
$3,390/mo
Studio
$4,213/mo
1 Bedroom
$5,272/mo
2 Bedroom
$6,397/mo

Senior living costs in Knoxville vs. state and national costs

Cost comparison table showing community type costs by location. This table contains 3 rows of data across 4 columns.
Column communityType: Community type
Column destination: Knoxville, TN
Column state: Tennessee
Column national: U.S.
Community typeKnoxville, TNTennesseeU.S.
Assisted Living$4,194/mo$4,374/mo$4,784/mo
Memory Care$4,230/mo$4,472/mo$5,057/mo
Independent Living$3,642/mo$3,840/mo$4,247/mo
Assisted Living
Knoxville, TN:$4,194/mo
Tennessee:$4,374/mo
U.S.:$4,784/mo
Memory Care
Knoxville, TN:$4,230/mo
Tennessee:$4,472/mo
U.S.:$5,057/mo
Independent Living
Knoxville, TN:$3,642/mo
Tennessee:$3,840/mo
U.S.:$4,247/mo
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

Assisted living costs in Knoxville, TN, over time

The line graph below shows how monthly assisted living costs have shifted over the past five years in Knoxville and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent quarterly averages of what seniors actually paid after moving into A Place for Mom partner communities.

Knoxville, TNTN stateNational

Assisted living cost trends in Knoxville, TN

The table below shows how monthly assisted living costs in Knoxville have changed in the last two years and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent averages of actual costs paid by seniors who moved into A Place for Mom partner communities in 2023 and 2024.

Cost comparison table showing 2023 and 2024 median costs by location. This table contains 3 rows of data across 4 columns.
Column location: Location
Column cost2024: 2024 average cost
Column cost2023: 2023 average cost
Column percentChange: Percent change
Location2024 average cost2023 average costPercent change
Knoxville, TN$4,257/mo$4,324/mo-1.6%
Tennessee$4,580/mo$4,484/mo+2.1%
National$5,378/mo$5,133/mo+4.8%
Knoxville, TN
2024 average cost:$4,257/mo
2023 average cost:$4,324/mo
Percent change:-1.6%
Tennessee
2024 average cost:$4,580/mo
2023 average cost:$4,484/mo
Percent change:+2.1%
National
2024 average cost:$5,378/mo
2023 average cost:$5,133/mo
Percent change:+4.8%
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

How to pay for assisted living in Knoxville

For many families in Knoxville, paying for assisted living means pulling from several financial resources instead of relying on a single option. It’s common to see families use a combination of personal savings, proceeds from selling a home, long-term care insurance, veterans benefits, and, in some situations, support through Tennessee’s Medicaid programs. While sorting through these options can feel overwhelming when you’re already focused on your loved one’s care, taking a layered approach to funding can help reduce financial pressure and make it easier to plan for stable, ongoing care.

Private pay options

Families often use a combination of personal income and assets to help pay assisted living expenses. Common sources include:

VA benefits

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers several benefit programs that can help eligible veterans and surviving spouses offset assisted living costs and manage monthly expenses. These VA benefits may provide ongoing financial support for older adults who need help with daily care, which can ease the financial burden many families face as care needs increase.

VA programs that are often used to help pay for assisted living include:

Because the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has detailed eligibility rules, income limits, and documentation requirements, the application process can feel overwhelming for families. Working with a VA-accredited benefits counselor can make the process more manageable, help avoid delays, and give families added reassurance that their loved one is receiving all VA benefits they may qualify for.

Resources for veterans in Knoxville

For Knoxville’s 8,800+ veterans,[03] the following organizations provide guidance, resources, and help with accessing available veterans benefits and programs.

Medicaid

Medicaid is a federal-state program that helps eligible older adults receive essential health and long-term care services. In Tennessee, the Medicaid program is called TennCare. While TennCare doesn’t pay for room and board in an assisted living community, it may help cover certain medical and nonmedical care services that support daily living.

Through TennCare’s CHOICES in Long-Term Services and Supports program, eligible seniors may receive coverage for services such as:[04]

Tennessee’s Aged, Blind, and Disabled Medicaid program may also help pay for some care-related services for qualifying seniors.[05] Unlike CHOICES, which isn’t an entitlement program and may have limited availability, ABD Medicaid is an entitlement. This means that once your loved one qualifies, medical and non-medical services are provided based on their assessed needs.

To qualify for TennCare programs, including CHOICES and ABD Medicaid, seniors must meet specific income, asset, and medical necessity requirements. Understanding these eligibility rules can help families plan and explore whether Medicaid support may be part of their overall assisted living funding strategy.

Medicaid resources in Knoxville, Tennessee

To apply for Tennessee Medicaid, elderly residents of Knoxville can:

  • Apply online through the TennCare Connect portal
  • Apply over the phone by calling 855-297-0701
  • Fax a completed application to 855-315-0669, or mail it to:

TennCare Connect
P.O. Box 305240
Nashville, TN 37230

If you have questions about eligibility, need help completing an application, or want to check on the status of a submission, you can contact:

Medicare

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for adults age 65 and older, as well as for younger individuals with certain qualifying disabilities or medical conditions.[06] Although Medicare doesn’t cover room and board in an assisted living community, it can help lower your loved one’s overall healthcare costs by paying for approved medical services. These may include prescription medications, durable medical equipment, preventive care, and certain outpatient services, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses while your loved one receives assisted living support.

Medicare resources in Knoxville

For free and unbiased information about Medicare benefits, elderly residents in Knoxville can contact the following organizations.

What families are saying about assisted living in Knoxville

Recent reviews for assisted living in Knoxville

Autumn Care in Knoxville, TN

4.5
They are doing a great job. The only thing is the scheduled cleaning is once a week and I think they may need it a little more often. I have been overall very pleased with Autumn care and with Brenda the administrator, they helped make this as painless as possible. They eat well and enjoy the ...
Read more

Heritage Assisted Living Fountain City Knoxville TN

5.0
Overall it has been a very positive experience for my Mom at Heritage Assisted Living Fountain City. The facility is reasonably clean and the staff is very friendly. I believe the care has and continues to be as well as could be received in any assisted living facility. The meals are provided ...
Read more

Heritage Assisted Living West Knoxville TN

4.7
Heritage Assisted Living feels more like a family environment. The lady [name removed] who initially took us on the tour did a really good job and was very informative. The staff members are very involved with the residents and the care services are excellent. When we do come to visit it seems ...
Read more

Reviews mention these favorite features of communities

Friendly and welcoming staff. Many reviews mention the warm and caring nature of the staff at their community. For example, at Wellington Manor Knoxville, the staff listened to concerns during the initial tour and resolved problems speedily. At Deane Hill Place, staff members went out of their way to help get residents s ...
Read more
Nutritious and enjoyable meals. Throughout reviews, quality food stands out as a major factor in residents' overall satisfaction with their community. At the Rain Forest Landings, the chef accommodates individual preferences and dietary restrictions, while at StoryPoint Knoxville West, the food is described as 'good' and ' ...
Read more
Variety of engaging activities. Residents find enjoyment in the wide range of specialized activities offered at different communities. For example, at Rain Forest Landings, staff members organize a variety of activities to keep residents active and engaged, while at Northshore Heights - Knoxville, residents have access to ...
Read more
Thoughtful care for memory care residents. Memory care residents receive personalized care and attention at many communities. At Trinity Hills of Knoxville, staff members take a genuine interest in getting to know each resident and provide care that exceeds expectations. At Rain Forest Landings, residents with memory care needs have ...
Read more
Open and honest communication. Families appreciate clear and effective communication with loved ones and staff, so that everyone can stay informed and ensure care needs are being met. For example, at Deane Hill Place, staff kept the family up-to-date on their loved one's care and resolved any concerns quickly.
Professional and attentive nurses. Nurses are praised for their professionalism and attentiveness in several reviews. At Rain Forest Landings, nurses keep families informed and are always there to help understand changes in their loved ones' care. At Windsor Ridge, staff members take care of residents' medications efficiently ...
Read more
AI generated from the text of family reviews

Knoxville review score based on 260 family reviews

8.3
Review score33 facilities260 reviewsWrite a review
This proprietary review score is based on 260 reviews of 33 Knoxville assisted living communities. All reviews were submitted in the past two years by verified community residents and family members.
The Knoxville review score informs your search by letting you see at a glance how assisted living residents and family members rate assisted living in your area. Compare review scores in multiple locations to understand how overall satisfaction rates differ from city to city. Based on recent reviews, the maximum possible score is 10.Methodology: How we calculate our city review scores

Knoxville review score compared against nearby cities

8.3
Knoxville, TN33 facilities
8.2
Rockford, TN21 facilities
8.0
Alcoa, TN20 facilities

Review subcategories for Knoxville assisted living

When assisted living residents and family members submit a review on our site, they rate each community on categories such as cleanliness, activities, meals, and more. The chart below is based on 260 reviews of 33 Knoxville assisted living communities. This chart helps you compare Knoxville resident and family assisted living satisfaction rates against national averages. Use it to assess your needs and develop criteria for your own search. If you know that one of these categories is important to you or your loved one, our senior living advisors can help you find communities to match your needs.
Knoxville, TN averageNational average
Cleanliness
3.6
3.8
Friendliness
3.7
3.8
Care services
3.4
3.5
Staff
3.5
3.7
Meals & dining
3.2
3.4
Activities
3.2
3.4
Value for cost*
3.3
3.4
0.01.02.03.04.05.0
*Learn more about cost details

What is assisted living like in Knoxville?

Assisted living in Knoxville includes a wide range of community types and service levels, from upscale settings with expanded amenities to more modest options focused on essential care. Communities are designed to support older adults with varying needs, offering personalized assistance that can adapt as those needs change over time.

Benefits and amenities

Families exploring assisted living in Knoxville can expect communities to offer consistent staffing and supervision, along with access to healthcare coordination when needed. Many communities provide on-site clinical support or visiting medical professionals, as well as structured social, recreational, and wellness programming to promote engagement and overall well-being.

Assisted living in the surrounding Knoxville suburbs

Knoxville’s surrounding suburbs, including areas such as FarragutClinton, and Rockford, expand the range of available assisted living options. Communities in these nearby areas may offer assisted living on their own or in combination with memory care or independent living, which can be helpful for couples or for residents whose needs may change over time.

Knoxville assisted living services and amenities

These charts highlight some of the many care, dining, and entertainment offerings available in Knoxville assisted living communities. They don’t represent all possible services and amenities available at assisted living communities in Knoxville, but support comparisons against nationwide offerings. Our Senior Living Advisors can help you find communities that fit your preferences.

Availability of select care services in Knoxville assisted living

Assisted living communities offer a variety of care services and visiting health care providers to meet seniors’ health needs. The chart below shows the percentage of assisted living partners in Knoxville that offer these care services compared to the percentage of partners that offer them nationally.
Knoxville, TNNational
Full medication management
Full medication management
69.7%
52.9%
Doctor on call
Doctor on call
57.6%
34.2%
24-Hour awake staff
24-Hour awake staff
100%
96.1%
Diabetic care
Diabetic care
100%
97.7%
*Visiting health care professionals
*Visiting health care professionals
72.7%
57.1%
Home care agency on-site
Home care agency on-site
54.5%
30.3%
Non-ambulatory care
Non-ambulatory care
100%
96.8%
Respite or short term stays
Respite or short term stays
69.7%
47.7%
Hospice available on-site
Hospice available on-site
75.8%
52.8%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%
*Including nurse, dentist, OT, PT, speech or podiatrist

Availability of select dementia care services in Knoxville assisted living

Our community partners provide many services to keep residents with dementia or other memory concerns safe and engaged. Below, take a look at what percentage of Knoxville Assisted Living partners offer the selected dementia care services compared to the percentage of partners nationally.
Knoxville, TNNational
Dementia behaviors care
Dementia behaviors care
75.8%
51.7%
Specialized memory care training for staff
Specialized memory care training for staff
42.4%
32.9%
Secured community and/or wander guard
Secured community and/or wander guard
60.6%
41.4%
Memory care only community
Memory care only community
33.3%
13.8%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dietary accommodations in Knoxville assisted living

Assisted living communities help seniors maintain a balanced diet by accommodating their health needs, allergies, and other restrictions. Below you’ll find the percentage of Knoxville partners making specific dietary accommodations for seniors compared to the percentage of assisted living partners making those accommodations nationally.
Knoxville, TNNational
Nutritionist / dietician
Nutritionist / dietician
48.5%
27.6%
Low / no sodium
Low / no sodium
48.5%
41.5%
No sugar
No sugar
48.5%
38%
Vegetarian
Vegetarian
51.5%
36.8%
Pureed meals
Pureed meals
30.3%
18.4%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dining options in Knoxville assisted living

Our assisted living communities know that seniors want top-quality meals and options for how they dine. The chart below indicates the percentage of Knoxville communities that offer dining options to their discerning residents compared to our partners nationally.
Knoxville, TNNational
Professional chef
Professional chef
54.5%
31.9%
Restaurant style dining
Restaurant style dining
48.5%
42.8%
Room service
Room service
42.4%
37.2%
Anytime dining
Anytime dining
21.2%
18.3%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select programs and activities in Knoxville assisted living

Senior living communities offer a variety of programming to keep seniors socially, mentally, and physically vibrant. The chart below shows what percentage of partnered assisted living communities in Knoxville offer the selected activities, amenities, and programs compared to the percentage of partners nationwide.
Knoxville, TNNational
Activity director
Activity director
60.6%
46.9%
Pet-focused programs
Pet-focused programs
51.5%
31.3%
Community service programs
Community service programs
51.5%
30.9%
Devotional activities on-site
Devotional activities on-site
66.7%
49.9%
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
60.6%
49.9%
Outings / off-site activities
Outings / off-site activities
72.7%
52.7%
Piano or organ
Piano or organ
60.6%
41.9%
Arts and crafts center
Arts and crafts center
57.6%
36%
Educational speakers / life long learning
Educational speakers / life long learning
57.6%
38.6%
Clubs / games / karaoke
Clubs / games / karaoke
66.7%
47.3%
Live performances
Live performances
60.6%
47.5%
Dances
Dances
51.5%
31%
Fitness center
Fitness center
15.2%
24.9%
Fitness classes
Fitness classes
66.7%
46.5%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

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Unfamiliar with Knoxville? Highlights for seniors

Knoxville offers a comfortable blend of small-city charm and urban convenience that many seniors and families find appealing. The area is home to respected healthcare systems, walkable cultural districts, and easy access to outdoor spaces such as the Tennessee River and nearby parks, all of which support an active yet manageable lifestyle.

Top hospitals for seniors in Knoxville

Seniors in Knoxville have access to a range of hospitals and health systems that address many of the medical conditions and ongoing care needs that often come with aging.

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UT Medical is a leading academic medical center and teaching hospital in Knoxville affiliated with the University of Tennessee that supports older adults through specialized geriatric care, comprehensive acute and specialty services, and close coordination with physicians across a wide range of age-related conditions.

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Covenant Health Parkwest provides care for seniors through programs focused on cardiology, orthopedics, rehabilitation, and chronic condition management, with services designed to support recovery, mobility, and long-term health needs in older adults.

Transportation for seniors in Knoxville

In Knoxville, 92% of A Place for Mom’s partner assisted living communities provide free transportation to medical appointments, errands, or social outings.[01]

Key local public transportation resources include:

  • Knoxville Area Transi (KAT) operates the city’s public transportation system, offering fixed-route bus service throughout Knoxville as well as downtown trolley routes that connect major medical centers, shopping areas, and community destinations.
  • KAT LIFT paratransit service is designed for riders with disabilities who are unable to use standard fixed-route buses. The service provides door-to-door transportation using wheelchair-accessible vehicles for eligible residents who meet mobility and application requirements.
  • Knox County Community Action Committee (CAC) Transit serves Knox County residents who can’t use KAT or KAT LIFT. This program offers demand-responsive, wheelchair-accessible transportation and is often used by older adults for medical appointments and essential trips.

According to Walk Score, the University of Tennessee, Fort Sanders, and Old North Knoxville are Knoxville’s most walkable neighborhoods. Overall, Walk Score considers the city extremely car-dependent and gives it the following transportation ratings out of 100:[07]

Transportation card image
31

Walk Score

Transportation card image
27

Transit Score

Transportation card image
30

Bike Score

Things to do in Knoxville for seniors and their families

Knoxville offers a wide range of activities and amenities that appeal to seniors and the families who visit them, blending outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and community-based programming. From scenic nature experiences near the Great Smoky Mountains to accessible museums and performing arts venues, the area makes it easy for older adults to stay engaged.

Arts and culture

Knoxville’s arts and culture scene provides seniors with opportunities to explore regional history, enjoy live performances, and participate in enriching outings close to assisted living communities.

  • Museum of East Tennessee History. This fully ADA-accessible museum highlights the cultural, natural, and historical story of East Tennessee through rotating exhibits and permanent collections.
  • Tennessee Theatre. Located in downtown Knoxville, this historic venue hosts Broadway productions, concerts, and special events, with accessible seating available for seniors who need accommodations.

Outdoor and nature experiences

Knoxville’s outdoor attractions allow seniors to enjoy nature at a comfortable pace, with options that support mobility and sensory needs.

  • Knoxville Zoo. This wheelchair-accessible zoo offers animal exhibits, interactive programs, sensory-inclusive accommodations, and a scenic train ride for visitors who prefer walking less.
  • UT Arboretum. Situated on the University of Tennessee campus, this arboretum provides a peaceful setting for gentle walks among trees and seasonal plantings, with limited access accommodations available for visitors with mobility needs.
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located a short drive from Knoxville, this nationally renowned park offers senior-friendly scenic drives, visitor centers, and a wide range of nature experiences that families can tailor to different mobility levels.

Assisted living laws and regulations in Tennessee

Assisted living communities are generally regulated by state governments. This means that rules and operation requirements vary by state and by the type of care a community provides. Learning about how assisted living is regulated can help you make informed care decisions.

Read more: Assisted living regulations in Tennessee

Why do licensure and inspection reports matter to families?

State regulations — and a community’s track record with inspections and licensing — offer important insights into safety and quality of care in senior living communities.

Download the Guide to Senior Living Licensure and Inspection Reports to learn what to look for in an inspection report and what questions to ask when touring communities. This resource explains how to use state licensure and inspection information to evaluate a community’s compliance, care standards, and responsiveness to issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

The average cost of assisted living in Knoxville is $4,194 per month.
No, Medicare won’t pay for assisted living in Knoxville.
Yes, seniors in Knoxville can use their Social Security benefits however they see fit, including paying for assisted living.
Yes, Tennessee’s Medicaid program will cover some costs of assisted living for eligible residents. Medicaid won’t cover the cost of room and board, though.
Yes, all of A Place for Mom’s partner communities host onsite services or devotional activities, and 69% coordinate transportation to offsite services.
Yes. More than 92% of assisted living communities in Knoxville allow residents to keep dogs and cats. Fees and weight limits may apply.

References

  1. A Place for Mom. (2026). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  2. Economic Research Institute. (2026, March 26). Cost of living data in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States.

  3. Census Reporter. (2024). Knoxville, TN.

  4. TennCare. CHOICES.

  5. TennCare. Long-term services & supports.

  6. U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Get started with Medicare. Medicare.gov.

  7. Walk Score. (2026). Living in Knoxville.

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More questions?

Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
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1.

A Place for Mom. (2026). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

2.

Economic Research Institute. (2026, March 26). Cost of living data in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States.

3.

Census Reporter. (2024). Knoxville, TN.

4.

TennCare. CHOICES.

5.
6.

U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Get started with Medicare. Medicare.gov.

7.

Walk Score. (2026). Living in Knoxville.