Overhyped or Underrated? Is Franklin One of the Best Towns Close to Nashville TN?
Thinking about moving to Tennessee and eyeing Franklin as your future home? You’re not alone. Franklin is one of the most talked-about towns close to Nashville TN, and for good reason. But does it actually live up to the hype? Or is it just another overhyped spot with a glossy reputation?
In this post, we’re taking a deep dive into what makes Franklin special, where it might fall short, and whether it’s truly one of the best towns close to Nashville TN to call home.
Everyone Is Talking About Franklin
Just 20 miles south of downtown Nashville, Franklin TN is often described as a perfect mix of small-town charm and big-city amenities. It’s known for its historic Main Street, upscale boutiques, great schools, and tight-knit community. But the buzz has gotten so loud that it begs the question: is all the praise deserved?
Does Franklin Live Up to the Hype?
Franklin has certainly built a name for itself. It's been featured in magazines, ranked as a top place to live, and is frequently recommended by real estate pros to families, retirees, and remote workers alike. But the real test comes down to your priorities. If you’re looking for luxury, a strong sense of community, and a well-maintained town with charm to spare, Franklin might check all the boxes. If affordability or low-key living top your list, the reality might not match the fantasy.
A Look Into Franklin TN
Franklin’s historic downtown is picture-perfect, with cobblestone sidewalks, century-old buildings, and a lively calendar of festivals, parades, and markets. The community takes pride in preserving its southern roots while embracing modern comforts like local farm-to-table dining, high-end salons, and creative small businesses.
Families are drawn to the excellent Williamson County School District. Professionals love the quick commute to Nashville. Retirees are taken by the peaceful neighborhoods and scenic walking trails. There’s truly something for everyone, but that “something” often comes at a cost.
What’s the Cost of Living?
Franklin is not your average affordable southern town. Home prices have skyrocketed in recent years, with the average home now sitting comfortably in the $900K range for single-family homes in many neighborhoods, and much higher in luxury areas.
This can be a dealbreaker for buyers moving from other parts of Tennessee. However, for those coming from California, New York, or Chicago, the prices might still feel like a breath of fresh air.
Beyond home prices, you’ll also find higher-than-average costs for groceries, dining, and day-to-day services. That said, many residents feel the lifestyle perks are worth the premium.
Franklin’s Distinct Neighborhoods
One of Franklin’s strengths is the diversity of its neighborhoods. Whether you want walkability, acreage, historic charm, or new construction, there’s likely a pocket of town that suits your vibe.
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Downtown Franklin: Ideal for walkable living, boutique shopping, and a rich historical feel
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Westhaven: A planned luxury community with its own town square, top-tier amenities, and a true resort-style lifestyle
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Fieldstone Farms: More suburban, great for families, and offers a strong sense of community
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Leipers Fork: Rural charm, artist culture, and scenic rolling hills
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Berry Farms and Ladd Park: Newer builds with great access to I-65, shopping, and schools
The variety is impressive, but many of these neighborhoods are priced well above the state average.
What Are the Downsides?
Even the best towns have their drawbacks, and Franklin is no exception.
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Traffic: Tourist traffic, daily commuters, and weekend events can clog the roads, especially around downtown
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Price tag: As mentioned, the cost of living isn’t for the faint of heart
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Growth pains: As Franklin continues to expand, some locals worry about overdevelopment and losing the town’s original character
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Limited diversity: While the town is growing in this area, some new residents may seek more cultural variety
Who Is Franklin a Great Fit For?
Franklin is ideal for:
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Families looking for strong schools and a safe environment
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Professionals who work in or near Nashville
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Retirees seeking an active, walkable community
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Buyers relocating from high-cost markets who want charm and luxury
If you're looking for nightlife, a younger crowd, or more affordable real estate, you may want to explore other nearby towns like Murfreesboro, Spring Hill, or Nolensville.
So, Is Franklin Overhyped or Underrated?
That depends on what you’re looking for.
If you value charm, well-planned communities, and that storybook Southern vibe, Franklin delivers. But if your move to Tennessee is about escaping high costs and finding a hidden gem, Franklin may not feel as magical once you see the price tags.
It’s definitely one of the best towns close to Nashville TN, but not necessarily the right fit for everyone.
Thinking about moving to Tennessee?
Let’s chat about what areas truly align with your goals. I’ll help you find the right town, the right neighborhood, and the right lifestyle.
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https://youtu.be/4V-qUOc2Z2w
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Sincerely,
Lisa Marie Mason
