Coming to Nashville? Here’s EXACTLY How Much Money You’ll Spend!

How Much Cash Should You Bring to Nashville?

It’s a classic travel dilemma. You’re heading to Nashville, ready to dive into live music, hot chicken, and honky-tonk nights. But the big question looms—how much cash should you bring?

The short answer? More than you think.

The Price of Fun in Nashville

If you plan to eat, drink, and soak in the city’s nightlife, expect to spend at least $300+ per day—that’s the consensus from those who’ve been there, done that. And if you’re the kind of person who likes to keep the drinks flowing? One traveler dropped $400 in a single night on booze alone. Another? $500 per day, just on alcohol. Drinks can run $15–$18 each, and those rounds add up fast.

Not a big drinker? You might get by on $100–$150 per day, but if you want to experience the full spectrum—bars, shows, cowboy boots, and tipping the incredible live musicians—you’ll want to budget higher. Some visitors allow $1,500 per day to cover everything: drinks, tips, Uber rides, souvenirs, even buying drinks for new friends or donating to street performers.

Don’t Forget the Daytime Shows

If you want to experience songwriters performing the biggest country hits, check out Backstage Nashville at 3rd & Lindsley on Saturdays. It’s an all-ages daytime show with a full bar and restaurant. Want tickets? Book ahead! You’ll also want to grab Opry tickets in advance at opry.com—they sell out fast.

Where Cash is King (and Where It’s Not)

Most places take cards, and some don’t even accept cash at all. But tipping bands, bartenders, and service staff? That’s still a cash game. Small bills are your best friend. Many travelers suggest bringing at least $200+ in cash just for tipping servers and bands.

Budgeting Pro Tips

• Plan for tickets ahead of time – Buy your Opry or museum tickets online to avoid scrambling for extra cash.
• Look for discounts – Sites like Groupon might have deals on tours and attractions.
• Visit dive bars – Drinks are way cheaper than Broadway’s flashy spots.
• Have a backup plan – One traveler wisely advised: “Whatever you think you’ll need—double it.”
• Bring small bills – Tip your bartenders, Lyft drivers, and bands in cash.

The Bottom Line

Some go all out ($1,500 per day, cowboy boots and all), while others keep it modest. But Nashville isn’t a place where you want to find yourself short on cash. If you drink, love live music, and plan to fully enjoy what the city has to offer, expect to spend at least $300–$350 per day per person—and bring extra cash for tips.

And if you're really worried? Just do what one person suggested—cash out your 401k and have a great time.