The average rent in Bristol, TN is about $1,000 to $1,450 a month depending on the source and home type. RentCafe, which tracks apartments, reported an average of $1,193 in October 2026 (about $1,014 for a one-bedroom and $1,294 for two bedrooms). Zillow’s average across all property types was $1,450 in the same month. Bristol is a small market, so figures move with a few listings.
This guide covers Bristol, Tennessee. For the UK city, see our Bristol cost of living guide.
Quick answer
Plan on about $850 to $1,014 for a one-bedroom, $1,294 to $1,400 for a two-bedroom and about $1,700 for a three-bedroom home. Apartments (RentCafe) and all property types (Zillow) are measured differently, so they do not match exactly.
Average Rent in Bristol, TN by Size
| Home size | Zillow average, all types (Oct. 2026) | RentCafe apartment average (Oct. 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,000 | Not available |
| 1 bedroom | $850 | $1,014 |
| 2 bedrooms | $1,400 | $1,294 |
| 3 bedrooms | $1,700 | Not available |
| 4 bedrooms | $1,675 | Not available |
| All sizes | $1,450 | $1,193 |
Sources: Zillow rental market trends and RentCafe. The four-bedroom average is lower than three-bedroom on Zillow, which points to a small sample.
Is Rent Going Up in Bristol, TN?
RentCafe reported that the average apartment rent rose about 10.9% over the past year, from $1,076 to $1,193. Small markets can swing sharply, so one new building or a handful of listings can shift the average.
Apartments vs. Houses
Apartments tend to cost less than houses of the same bedroom count. A house gives you more space and a yard, while a smaller apartment is usually cheaper and often includes some services. Compare the full monthly cost, including utilities, rather than rent alone.
How Bristol, TN Compares
Bristol, TN is a smaller and cheaper market than Nashville or Memphis. See our Nashville cost of living guide and Memphis cost of living guide for big-city rent, and our Manchester, TN rent guide for another small Tennessee market.
Other Costs to Budget For
- Security deposit, often one month’s rent.
- Application fees and any pet fees.
- Electricity, water, internet and trash if not included.
- Renters insurance, which many landlords require.
How to Find a Rental Faster
- Set a maximum rent and bedroom count.
- Check several listing sites, since small markets are split across platforms.
- Ask about utilities, pet policy and lease length before applying.
- Visit in person and read the lease for fees and renewal terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average rent in Bristol, TN?
About $1,193 for apartments (RentCafe, October 2026) and $1,450 across all property types (Zillow, October 2026).
How much is a one-bedroom in Bristol, TN?
Roughly $850 to $1,014 a month, depending on the source and building.
Are rents rising in Bristol, TN?
RentCafe reports about a 10.9% increase in the average apartment rent over the past year.
Is Bristol, TN cheaper than Nashville?
Yes. Bristol is a much smaller market with lower typical rents than Nashville, though choice is more limited.
Conclusion
Renting in Bristol, TN costs roughly $1,000 to $1,450 on average, with one-bedrooms near $850 to $1,014. Compare live listings, confirm which utilities are included, and expect prices to shift in this small market.
