Tennessee closing costs
The taxes and fees you'll see on a Tennessee settlement statement, and where they come from.
Closing costs are the taxes, fees, and charges paid when a sale closes. Some are set by Tennessee law. Others depend on your loan, your contract, and the companies involved. This guide covers the ones set by the state.
Estimate the state taxes
Enter a price and loan amount to see the two state taxes recorded at closing.
Estimate your state taxes
- Transfer tax
- $1,480
- Mortgage tax
- $366
- Both taxes
- $1,846
An estimate using state rates current as of September 2026. Transfer tax is figured on the price or the property’s value, whichever is greater; this uses the price. Recording fees and title premiums aren’t included. Your settlement statement has the real figures.
State taxes and fees at a glance
| Charge | Rate | Paid by |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer tax on the deed | $0.37 per $100 of price or value, whichever is greater | State law places it on the person receiving the property |
| Tax on the deed of trust | $0.115 per $100 of loan principal; first $2,000 exempt | The borrower |
| Recording fees | $5 per page ($10 minimum) plus $2 per document | Varies by document |
Rates are from the Tennessee Department of Revenue and the Tennessee Code (§67-4-409 and §8-21-1001), current as of September 2026. They can change. Check with your county Register of Deeds.
Transfer tax
Tennessee charges a transfer tax when the deed is recorded: $3.70 per $1,000 of the sale price or value. That’s about $1,480 on a $400,000 home. Read the transfer tax guide.
Mortgage tax
If you’re borrowing, Tennessee taxes the recorded deed of trust. On a $320,000 loan, that’s about $366. Read the mortgage tax guide.
Recording fees
County Registers of Deeds charge fees set by state law to record the deed, the deed of trust, and other documents. Counties may add $2 for documents filed electronically.
Title insurance
Title premiums are filed with the state and depend on the price or loan amount. See what title insurance is and the title rate calculator.
Other costs
Your settlement statement may also show lender charges, prepaid items like property taxes and insurance, and fees agreed to in your contract. If you’re getting a loan, your Closing Disclosure lists them, and federal rules require you to receive it at least three business days before you sign.
Next step
For figures on your own transaction, contact us or call either office.
This is general information, not legal advice. Talk to your attorney.
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