<p>A comprehensive investigation into the vibration behavior of carbon nanotube-reinforced composite (CNTRC) beams resting on a Winkler-Pasternak elastic foundation was presented incorporating higher-order shear deformation theory (HSDT). A new exponential power-law distribution to model the volume fraction of single-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) within the polymer matrix was applied. This approach is different from previous methods and allows a more accurate representation of the beam material. The Pasternak foundation, characterizing by both shear layer interactions and normal stiffness, is shown to play a critical role in influencing the dynamic response of CNTRC beams, providing a more realistic support model compared to the simplified Winkler foundation. The governing equations of motion were systematically derived using Hamilton’s principle, and the Navier’s method of solution was employed to analyze the free vibration response under various boundary conditions. Comparative studies with existing models validated the accuracy of the proposed approach, revealing that the combined effects of exponential CNT distribution and Pasternak foundation parameters significantly alter the natural frequencies of the beam. The findings offer new insights into the advanced modeling of nanocomposite structures, which can be instrumental in optimizing the design of next-generation high-performance materials in aerospace, automotive, and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS).</p>