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Tennessee Renters Insurance

Last updated: 2026 · Data reflects current estimated industry averages.

Avg. Annual Premium

$156

Avg. Monthly

$13

Legally Required?

No*

Credit-Based Pricing

Allowed

Primary Risk

Tornado/Hail

Average Renters Insurance Cost in Tennessee

Renters in Tennessee pay an estimated $156 per year ($13/month) for a standard policy, based on 2026 industry average data.

Renters Insurance Rates by City in Tennessee

City Est. Annual Premium
Nashville$168/yr
Memphis$174/yr
Knoxville$142/yr

What Makes Tennessee Renters Insurance Unique

Tennessee sees a meaningful volume of spring tornado claims, particularly in the western and middle parts of the state, which keeps premiums a bit above the Southeast's inland average.

Risk Factors Specific to Tennessee

Underwriters in Tennessee weigh tornado, severe thunderstorm, and hail damage more heavily than in lower-risk states when pricing renters policies.

Renters Insurance Compared With Rent in Tennessee

The median gross rent in Tennessee was $1,284 a month in 2024 (U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey), 14% below the national median of $1,487. Against that, our estimated renters premium of $156 a year — about $13 a month — equals roughly 12% of one month’s rent for a full year of coverage, above the middle share among the 50 states in our estimates.

The Coverage Detail That Matters Most in Tennessee

In Tennessee, windstorm and hail are covered perils on standard renters policies, so belongings damaged when a storm breaks windows or tears off part of the roof are covered, subject to your deductible. Additional living expenses pay for temporary housing while the landlord repairs the unit. The landlord’s policy covers the building, never your belongings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is renters insurance required in Tennessee?

No. No U.S. state, including Tennessee, legally requires tenants to carry renters insurance. That said, individual landlords and property management companies in Tennessee can — and often do — require proof of a policy as a lease condition, especially for larger apartment complexes.

How much does renters insurance cost in Tennessee?

Renters in Tennessee pay an estimated $156 per year ($13/month) for a standard policy, based on 2026 industry average data. Actual premiums vary based on coverage limits, deductible, credit history (where allowed), claims history, and the specific building or neighborhood.

Can insurers use your credit score to set renters insurance rates in Tennessee?

Yes. Tennessee allows insurers to factor in your credit-based insurance score when calculating renters insurance premiums, alongside coverage limits, claims history, and location. Renters with stronger credit typically qualify for lower rates from most carriers.

What's the biggest renters insurance risk factor in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, tornado and hail damage are the leading covered perils. Standard renters policies do cover wind and hail damage to personal belongings, so confirm your policy's coverage limits are high enough to replace electronics and furniture after a severe storm.

How much is renters insurance compared with rent in Tennessee?

With a median rent of $1,284 a month (2024) and an estimated premium of $156 a year, a full year of renters insurance in Tennessee costs roughly 12% of one month's rent.

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*No U.S. state legally mandates renters insurance, though individual landlords may require it as a lease condition. The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and reflects estimated industry averages as of 2026. Insurance rates change periodically; always verify current pricing with a licensed insurance professional. City-level and statewide premiums shown are approximations — individual rates will vary based on personal factors.