Thinking of Moving to Nashville or Middle Tennessee? Here’s Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Cities to Live!
Are you considering a move to Nashville or somewhere in Middle Tennessee? With so many great cities to choose from, how do you know which one is the perfect fit for you? Whether you're relocating for work, seeking a lower cost of living, or just looking for a better quality of life, this blog post will guide you through the best cities to live in Tennessee, with insights into everything from home prices to lifestyle, schools, and the real cost of living in the state.
Middle Tennessee is growing rapidly, and finding the right place to call home can be a challenge. Luckily, I’ve done the research for you! In this post, I’ll break down the details of Nashville and nearby cities to help you figure out which one fits your needs.
Nashville, TN – The Heart of Music City
As the capital city of Tennessee, Nashville is a dynamic and growing hub for entertainment, culture, and opportunity. Known as Music City, Nashville is famous for its country music scene, with iconic spots like the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium. However, Nashville is not just about music. The city offers a booming job market, especially in healthcare, education, and technology, attracting young professionals and creatives.
The city’s popularity has also led to an increase in housing prices. While Nashville offers vibrant neighborhoods like East Nashville, The Gulch, and Green Hills, home prices have risen significantly in recent years. Despite the higher cost of living, the city’s cultural amenities, job opportunities, and dynamic lifestyle continue to make it a top choice for those seeking city life.
However, with its rapid growth comes increased traffic and congestion, particularly in the downtown area. If you enjoy living in a fast-paced, urban environment, Nashville offers a wealth of opportunities, but it also comes with its challenges.
Franklin, TN – A Charming Historic Town with Suburban Appeal
Located just 20 miles south of Nashville, Franklin offers a small-town charm while being close enough to the city to enjoy its amenities. Known for its historic downtown, Franklin is a picturesque town with tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and a strong sense of community. The town’s history is rich, and landmarks like Carnton Plantation and Franklin Battlefield are reminders of the area’s Civil War past.
Franklin is also renowned for its top-rated schools, making it a popular choice for families. The town has a relaxed, suburban feel, with walkable neighborhoods and outdoor spaces like the Carter Hill Park and Franklin City Park. However, housing prices in Franklin can be steep compared to other suburban areas due to its desirability. Nevertheless, the town offers a blend of historic homes and newer developments that attract those looking for a charming and safe environment to raise a family.
Though it doesn’t offer the same big-city excitement as Nashville, Franklin provides a more peaceful lifestyle while still being only a short drive away from the cultural and economic opportunities in Music City.
Murfreesboro, TN – The Fast-Growing Suburban City
Murfreesboro is one of the fastest-growing cities in Tennessee, and it’s easy to see why. Located about 30 miles southeast of Nashville, Murfreesboro combines affordable housing with excellent schools, making it a great option for families and young professionals. It has become a popular destination for those who want to enjoy suburban living without the high costs of Nashville.
Murfreesboro’s growth has led to an increase in new developments, and the city offers an abundance of parks, golf courses, and outdoor activities. It’s also home to Middle Tennessee State University, which adds a youthful and vibrant atmosphere to the city. Murfreesboro offers a range of housing options, from affordable homes to more upscale properties, making it an attractive choice for a variety of buyers.
Though Murfreesboro is still a more affordable place to live compared to Nashville, it lacks the big-city amenities of its larger counterpart. However, its balance of suburban living and proximity to Nashville makes it an ideal choice for many.
Hendersonville, TN – Lakeside Living with Easy Access to Nashville
For those who love the outdoors and a quieter lifestyle, Hendersonville offers a perfect escape. Located about 18 miles north of Nashville, this city sits on the shores of Old Hickory Lake, offering residents lakefront living and plenty of recreational opportunities like boating, fishing, and hiking. It’s an ideal location for those who enjoy a more peaceful lifestyle but still want to be close to Nashville’s job market and entertainment scene.
Hendersonville is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent schools, making it a popular choice for families and retirees. The housing market here is more affordable than in Nashville, and you’ll find a mix of lakefront properties, new developments, and older homes. With its tight-knit community and beautiful scenery, Hendersonville provides a quieter, slower-paced alternative to the hustle and bustle of Nashville.
However, as the area becomes more desirable, traffic and congestion have increased, especially during rush hours. Still, if you’re looking for a place with natural beauty and a strong sense of community, Hendersonville is a great option.
Mt. Juliet, TN – The City Between the Lakes
Known as “The City Between the Lakes,” Mt. Juliet offers residents a peaceful suburban lifestyle, combined with easy access to Nashville. Located about 20 miles east of the city, Mt. Juliet sits between Old Hickory Lake and Percy Priest Lake, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The city is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, great schools, and affordable housing.
Mt. Juliet has experienced rapid growth in recent years, and its convenient location makes it a top choice for commuters. The town offers a range of housing options, from affordable homes to new construction properties, and the overall cost of living is lower than in Nashville. Although it lacks the cultural vibrancy of Nashville, Mt. Juliet offers a strong community and a high quality of life for those seeking a quieter suburban setting.
Spring Hill & Nolensville, TN – Small-Town Charm with a Growing Community
If you’re looking for a small-town feel with modern conveniences, Spring Hill and Nolensville are great options. Both towns have experienced rapid growth over the past decade, with new developments and an influx of residents seeking a quieter lifestyle while still being close to Nashville.
Spring Hill is known for its new homes, good schools, and family-friendly environment. It has a more suburban feel than other areas in Middle Tennessee and offers affordable housing options compared to nearby cities like Nashville and Franklin. The town also has several parks and green spaces for outdoor activities.
Nolensville, while smaller, offers a similar family-oriented atmosphere and has gained popularity due to its rural charm and strong sense of community. It’s perfect for those who want to experience a quieter lifestyle while still enjoying the benefits of being close to Nashville.
Which Middle Tennessee City is Right for You?
Each city in Middle Tennessee offers something unique. Whether you're drawn to the excitement of Nashville, the historic charm of Franklin, the affordability of Murfreesboro, or the lakeside living of Hendersonville and Mt. Juliet, there’s a place for everyone in this growing region. The cities offer a range of housing options, lifestyle, and amenities to fit your personal needs. No matter what you value most—whether it’s affordability, access to nature, or proximity to work—Middle Tennessee has a community that will fit your needs.
If you’re ready to make the move, I’d love to help you navigate the process. Let me know which city you’re most interested in, and I can offer additional details on how to make your transition seamless.
To discover even more about these amazing cities and what makes each one special, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for exclusive insights and in-depth tours!
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Sincerely,
Lisa Marie Mason
