The Best Small Tennessee Cities to Buy a Home in 2025
Moving to Tennessee from California was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I still remember the fresh air, the friendlier pace of life, and finally seeing home prices that felt doable. Whether you’re relocating like I did, buying your first home, or just ready for a new chapter, Middle Tennessee has so many great places to call home.
Here are my top five cities to consider if you're thinking about buying a home in Middle Tennessee in 2025.
1. Murfreesboro
If you're looking for a strong community with all the convenience of a city, Murfreesboro should be high on your list. It’s one of the fastest-growing areas in the state, but still has a grounded, welcoming feel. You'll find everything from new builds to charming older homes, and you're less than an hour from Nashville.
Why buyers love it:
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Great for families and first-time buyers
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Lots of new construction and established neighborhoods
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Strong local economy and job market
2. Franklin
Franklin is picture perfect. It’s one of the most beautiful and historic towns in Tennessee. It has a charming Main Street, award-winning schools, and a higher-end housing market that holds its value well. If you’re looking for a mix of luxury, walkability, and Southern charm, this might be the one.
Why buyers love it:
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Upscale small-town feel
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Excellent schools and community events
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Strong resale value and market stability
3. Hendersonville
Located right along Old Hickory Lake, Hendersonville blends suburban living with lakefront lifestyle. It’s perfect if you love being near the water but still want quick access to Nashville, which is about 25 minutes away. The area has great schools, parks, and more space than what you'd typically find in the city.
Why buyers love it:
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Lakeside living with a suburban feel
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Strong school systems
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Easy Nashville commute
4. Spring Hill
This city has become super popular for folks relocating from out of state. I’ve met plenty of other Californians here. It has newer developments, lots of family-friendly neighborhoods, and a growing number of local restaurants and shops. It’s also just a quick drive to both Franklin and Columbia.
Why buyers love it:
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Newer homes and growing communities
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Excellent schools
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Good value for the area
5. Mt. Juliet
Mt. Juliet is often called one of Middle Tennessee’s best-kept secrets. It’s clean, convenient, and has everything you need like shopping, parks, and highly rated schools. Located just east of Nashville, it’s a great option if you want a suburban lifestyle with easy city access. The commuter train even runs from here straight into downtown.
Why buyers love it:
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Convenient location near I-40 and the airport
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Strong schools and newer developments
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Great mix of retail, restaurants, and green space
Final Thoughts
When I started exploring Middle Tennessee, I was amazed at the range of communities here. From lake towns to historic districts to fast-growing suburbs, there’s truly something for everyone.
If you're curious about any of these cities or just want to know what it's like to move here from out of state, I'm always happy to share what I’ve learned and help however I can.
Thinking about buying in Middle Tennessee? Let’s chat. No pressure, just real advice from someone who’s been there.
Book your free call with me today and let's discuss your dream home:
Sincerely,
Lisa Mason
