It is no wonder that Cookeville, TN is one of America's Top 10 retirement places .With a quality of  life that is hard to find elsewhere, Cookeville attracts newcomers each day. Low cost of living and a wide variety of activities create the ideal environment, offering something for everyone.

Cookeville is located in an area known as the Upper Cumberland just north of Interstate 40. Cookeville is approximately 80 miles east of Nashville and 101 miles west of Knoxville. Putnam County encompasses 408 square miles while Cookeville's land area is about 20.4 square miles. Cookeville has a population of about 26,000 and is surrounded by a few smaller communities: Algood (2,911), Baxter (1,434), and Monterey (2,872).

With warm summers, mild winters, and breezy falls, Cookeville's weather promises to delight. The average annual temperature is 57°, dipping to an average of 37° in January and rising to a warm average of 88° in July. The average annual precipitation for this area is 51". The average annual snowfall is 8".

Of course there is an abundance of recreational events and activities. Cookeville is located within minutes of three of the most beautiful lakes in Tennessee -- Dale Hollow, Center Hill, and Cordell Hull. These lakes offer endless activities including swimming, canoeing, fishing, camping, and hiking. There are numerous parks, picnic areas, and playgrounds. For that sports person there are many tennis and racquet ball courts golf courses, and playing fields. Additionally, Hidden Hollow's petting zoo promises to thrill and entertain both adults and children.

Those seeking at, music, dance, and theater will find all of this in Putnam County. Cookeville has a variety of museums, drama centers, and craft fairs.

Cookeville's community is enhanced by many annual events. In March, they are off to the Home Show to find out all the looks for the coming year. In July, visitors and residents have a chance to participate in Freedom Fest, an explosion of fireworks and food. Each August, thousands flock to the Putnam County Fair Grounds for the annual county-wide fair. Each September we celebrate Fall Fun Fest with music, arts and crafts, and a BBQ cook-off. Add to this dozens of parades, art and craft shows, street festivals and more.