Data updated Nov 12, 2026
Best fit: Digital Nomad (score: 74)
Oak Ridge sits in eastern Tennessee, about five kilometers from McGhee Tyson Airport, at an elevation of 265 meters above sea level. The climate is subtropical, meaning hot, humid summers and mild winters, with a rhythm that suits outdoor enthusiasts and those who prefer distinct seasons. Expats tend to cluster in the Oak Ridge North neighborhood, a popular choice for its convenience and community feel. With a population of just 31,000, the city offers a small-town atmosphere while remaining within easy reach of the airport and regional amenities.
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Oak Ridge, TN at the budget tier comes to about $2,890 a month for one adult, with $2,020 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $297 on groceries, $100 on dining out, $61.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $320 on utilities and connectivity and $92.00 on transport.
Rent
$2,020/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$297/mo
75% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$100/mo
4 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$61.00/mo
1 cinema trip, 8 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$320/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$92.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Oak Ridge, TN at the mid-range tier comes to about $3,267 a month for one adult, with $2,020 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $395 on groceries, $250 on dining out, $190 on entertainment and lifestyle, $320 on utilities and connectivity and $92.00 on transport.
Rent
$2,020/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$395/mo
Staples basket scaled to a full month
Dining out
$250/mo
10 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$190/mo
gym, 2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$320/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$92.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Oak Ridge, TN at the comfortable tier comes to about $4,119 a month for one adult, with $2,376 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $554 on groceries, $510 on dining out, $267 on entertainment and lifestyle, $320 on utilities and connectivity and $92.00 on transport.
Rent
$2,376/mo
1BR in the centre
Groceries
$554/mo
140% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$510/mo
6 inexpensive meals + 6 mid-range meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$267/mo
gym, 4 cinema trips, 20 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$320/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$92.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Estimates for one adult, built from this city's average prices and the usage shown for each tier. Your spending will differ with how often you eat out and where you live.
A 1BR in the center runs about $2375.71/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.
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See how Oak Ridge, TN's cost of living compares with Toledo, OH
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Oak Ridge is exceptionally safe for daily life. The city has a strong community policing presence and low violent crime rates. Walking at night is generally secure, though like any small town, awareness of surroundings remains prudent. The safety index of 92 reflects a genuinely low-crime environment where residents and expats report feeling comfortable in most areas.
Property crime (theft from vehicles, petty theft) occurs occasionally but remains well below national averages. Violent crime is rare. The main risks are typical small-town concerns: unlocked vehicles attracting opportunistic theft, and occasional package theft. Solo female travelers and residents report feeling safe; the city has active neighborhood watch programs and responsive local police.
Oak Ridge has no significant geopolitical risks or political instability. Police are reliable and professional. The city's history as a federal nuclear research facility contributes to strong security infrastructure and civic order. For Americans considering relocation, Oak Ridge presents minimal safety concerns—it's genuinely one of the safer mid-sized American towns, making it suitable for remote workers and retirees seeking a secure, stable environment.
Oak Ridge, TN has a safety index of 31.4/100. Petty theft and lost belongings are the most common problems for newcomers. Compare travel insurance before you go.
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See how Oak Ridge, TN's healthcare compares with Toledo, OH
Oak Ridge has a humid subtropical climate with hot, muggy summers (June-August) and mild winters with occasional snow, offering four distinct seasons typical of East Tennessee.
Indices last read Nov 12, 2026.
Rich in nature with a strong scientific community presence.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Regus - Oak Ridge | Located in the heart of Oak Ridge, this Regus location offers a professional environment with flexible workspace options. It's a reliable choice for remote workers seeking a standard office experience and is easily accessible. |
| Novel Coworking Knoxville | While technically in Knoxville, this location is a reasonable commute from Oak Ridge and offers a vibrant coworking community. It provides amenities like local beer on tap, an espresso bar, and direct fiber internet, making it attractive to digital nomads. |
| The Hive Knoxville | Also located in nearby Knoxville, The Hive offers a collaborative and creative atmosphere. It's a good option for those seeking a more community-focused coworking experience with various membership levels. |
Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).
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See how Oak Ridge, TN's digital nomad life compares with Toledo, OH
The Atomic City. Highly educated population and extremely safe. Excellent schools.
Areas of Oak Ridge, TN that expats often consider.
Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.
Historic, walkable, community-focused
Grove Center is the heart of Oak Ridge, featuring the city's historic shopping center and community events. It's relatively walkable and offers a mix of housing options. While not a huge expat hub, its central location and amenities make it accessible for newcomers.
Quiet, residential, family-oriented
Woodcreek is a primarily residential area known for its established homes and quiet streets. It's a good option for those seeking a peaceful environment, but requires a car for most errands. It's not particularly known for attracting expats, so language skills might be more important here.
Affordable, convenient, established homes
Glenwood offers a more budget-friendly option with a mix of housing styles. It's conveniently located near major roads and shopping areas. While not specifically expat-focused, the lower cost of living could be attractive.
Upscale, scenic, larger properties
Westover Hills is known for its larger homes, mature trees, and scenic views. It's a more affluent area of Oak Ridge, offering a sense of privacy and exclusivity. It's less walkable than Grove Center and caters to a more established demographic.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $2376/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
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