Best Place to Live in Tennessee provides an abundance of living environments, but Franklin stands out as a top contender. Franklin lies just south of Nashville and provides the ideal combination of historic charm and contemporary amenities, making it the ideal location for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. Williamson County provides a stunning natural backdrop. Williamson’s historic downtown features boutique shops and top-rated eateries that create an inviting ambiance, while its rolling hills create an idyllic vista for exploring nature.
Franklin stands out among its competitors due to its outstanding schools, low crime rates and strong job market – all qualities which make the community particularly appealing to families. Franklin offers a vibrant arts scene, numerous parks and strong sense of community; making it the ideal balance between urban convenience and natural splendor – making Franklin an excellent option for Tennessee residents looking for high quality of life.
Here is List Of Best Place to Live in Tennessee
- Nashville
- Chattanooga
- Collierville
- Knoxville
- Hendersonville
- Johnson City
- Murfreesboro
- Franklin
- Clarksville
- Memphis
10 Best Place to Live in Tennessee
1. Nashville
Nashville has long been a top vacation spot, but it also makes an excellent relocation option. Offering great entertainment and world-class restaurants alongside affordable real estate and great employment prospects are among its main draws. Plus with a median home value of $420,000 and real estate market that tends to weather economic downturns better than others – Nashville makes an excellent place for investing!
“Housing options in Nashville/Middle Tennessee range in price from $300,000 to $8 million; there’s something here for everyone,” according to Jenny Telwar of Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty. Happy Fulk, agent with Parks Realty/Luxury Portfolio International recommends Wedgewood-Houston (or WeHo) near south of Downtown as the most desirable neighborhood. Green Hills, Belle Meade Oak Hill Forest Hills are also good bets according to Fulk.
2. Chattanooga (Best Place to Live in Tennessee)
Chattanooga is an attractive city situated along the Tennessee River with the Appalachian Mountains as its backdrop, boasting 183,000 residents yet maintaining the feel of an intimate small town. Families will find plenty to keep them busy here: Creative Discovery Museum and Tennessee Aquarium offer excellent attractions while there is also a Minor League Baseball team and plenty of water sport activities on offer here.
“Chattanooga offers history, culture, scenic beauty, adventure and family-friendly fun all rolled into one!” stated Lizzer Graham of Fletcher Bright Realty/Luxury Portfolio International in Chattanooga. The neighborhoods here in Chattanooga are diverse and amazing like its city itself!
Downtown Chattanooga is ideal for those who prefer living within walking distance of its many restaurants and shops, while condominiums provide stunning river views. North Shore boasts cafes and independent boutiques; additionally it is home to one of the longest pedestrian bridges worldwide! For families with young children seeking recreation with biking, hiking and canoeing opportunities Hixson may also provide.
3. Collierville
Collierville is a charming small town with big-city amenities, boasting approximately 52,000 residents within 30 minutes of Memphis. Attracted by abundant natural resources that drew Native Americans and European settlers alike to this area of Tennessee, its rich history can still be discovered today while families appreciate its school system, laidback lifestyle, sense of community and stable real estate market.
Collierville is an inclusive community with neighborhoods for every taste and price point, according to Kay Paul of Crye-Leike Realtors/Luxury Portfolio International. Average home sales prices hover at $528,464, and new construction begins at over $600,000 according to Paul’s statement.
4. Knoxville (Best Place to Live in Tennessee)
Knoxville is situated approximately 30 miles away from Great Smoky Mountains National Park and boasts easily accessible lakes – making it an idyllic paradise for nature enthusiasts. Home of the University of Tennessee and home to over 25.000 college students enrolled there as well as growing young professional numbers – Knoxville makes for a lively city that provides both sports and cultural events year-round.
Claudia Stallings, chief operating officer at Wallace Real Estate/Luxury Portfolio International noted: “From a housing standpoint, property taxes in this area are relatively low and offer everything from urban condos and modest homes to expansive properties with expansive yards or lakefront homes,” according to Claudia’s estimate. Claudia pointed out that the median home value stands at approximately $325,000.
Diana Traylor, principal broker at Crye-Leike Realtors, recommends that prospective movers consider West Knoxville, Powell Halls Hardin Valley Karns as areas to live.
5. Hendersonville
Hendersonville’s 63,000 residents keep busy by participating in watersports along the Cumberland River and Old Hickory Lake, along with its eleven parks, bike trails, tennis courts, and tee-ball fields. People in Hendersonville spend an incredible amount of time outdoors.
Jayne Coleman of Parks Real Estate/Luxury Portfolio International notes that Hendersonville is home to numerous celebrities; however, anyone can call it home without needing to be famous to reside here. Home prices between $358,000 and $500,000 tend to stay on the market longer, giving buyers more time to make decisions before closing deals.
6. Johnson City (Best Place to Live in Tennessee)
Johnson City offers breathtaking mountain views at its location in northeast Tennessee’s Appalachian foothills, near numerous lakes and rivers. For weekend escapes, Nashville, Atlanta, Asheville and Charlotte are less than 300 miles away.
Greg Cox, owner and broker at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Greg Cox Real Estate noted, “Demand for beautiful town has skyrocketed as a result of its desirability,” noting quality listings do hit the market daily with competing frenzy easing to help make the process less taxing. Even with its nearly nine percent gain over last year, the median home value remains under $250,000.
7. Murfreesboro
Ronda Hawkins of Parks Real Estate/Luxury Portfolio International calls Murfreesboro “the secret of Tennessee.” Thanks to its proximity (about 30 miles from Nashville), Murfreesboro provides many big-city amenities like an international airport, event venues and healthcare facilities – but at much lower property costs than surrounding cities.
Hawkins noted, “The good news for homebuyers is that we do have inventory,” she noted. The West side offers lots of new construction allowing buyers to select finishes and fixtures themselves as part of the purchase price of new homes in this price range – which makes West Nashville an exceptional value when compared with other areas in Middle Tennessee.
Shelton Square, Breckenridge and Riverview are some of the most desired communities in Murfreesboro.
8. Franklin (Best Place to Live in Tennessee)
Franklin has become one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing cities with nearly 40 percent more residents living there today compared to when the city first emerged ten years ago.
“Franklin is the epitome of town and country,” according to Charlie Neese of Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty. It boasts an aesthetically restored downtown that retains much of its historic charm while remaining vibrant today.
Franklin offers numerous parks and amenities, including the tranquil Harpeth River where residents enjoy kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Thanks to Franklin’s idyllic setting and proximity to Nashville (about 20 miles), stars like Carrie Underwood enjoy living here – however anyone can purchase property here regardless of status or income levels.
“Condominiums and townhomes in Franklin typically start in the $300,000s,” according to Neese. Popular neighborhoods in this regard are Westhaven and Ladd Park.
9. Clarksville
Clarksville on the Kentucky border is just 40 minutes from Nashville and has experienced tremendous growth over the past decade. Home to Dunbar Cave State Park – a 144-acre protected area filled with hiking trails, wildlife, prehistoric cave art and the Cumberland River – Clarksville offers visitors a nature-rich getaway that draws many. Clarksville is currently undertaking a revitalization process which will add mixed use retail spaces as well as luxury residences to its downtown core.
Eddie Ferrell of Crye-Leike Realtors/Luxury Portfolio International noted, “Homebuyers will find properties within any price range that provide access to quality schools, an expanding healthcare community and easy access to Nashville.”
Employing the expertise of a Clarksville broker familiar with its neighborhoods and lifestyle is paramount in finding your perfect home in this town. Sango, Cunningham Woodlawn and Downtown areas are popular among buyers with median home values reaching $289,835.
10. Memphis
Memphis provides numerous jobs in healthcare industries as well as excellent schools, sporting facilities, and teams. Cost of living here is lower than both nationally and state averages; add hiking/biking trails along with a historic music scene into the mix and it becomes hard not to move here!
Memphis provides exceptional value when it comes to homeownership, according to Mickey McLellan of Crye-Leike Realtors/Luxury Portfolio International. Memphis boasts the lowest median home value on this list – only $148,000; make sure to explore Chickasaw Gardens, Belle Meade Kirby Woods The Cloisters Normandy Park neighborhoods when exploring your options in Memphis.
Best Place to Live in Tennessee Conclusion
Tennessee boasts many alluring places to settle down, each boasting their own special attractions and offerings. Franklin stands out as an attractive option among these, being one of the top places in Tennessee where people are choosing to reside. Historic charm combined with modern amenities, strong schools, low crime rates and an active job market makes the town attractive to both families and individuals.
Franklin offers an inclusive atmosphere, vibrant community, and stunning surroundings that captures Tennessee’s southern hospitality. Franklin provides opportunities for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures and peaceful living environments; all while representing what Tennessee has to offer!
Best Place to Live in Tennessee FAQ
What are some of the best places to live in Tennessee?
Some of the best places to live in Tennessee include Franklin, Brentwood, Nashville, Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Germantown, among others. The choice largely depends on your personal preferences and priorities.
What factors should I consider when choosing the best place to live in Tennessee?
Key factors to consider include cost of living, job opportunities, school quality, safety, lifestyle preferences, and proximity to amenities and cultural attractions. Each city in Tennessee has its unique characteristics, so it’s important to align your priorities with the local offerings.
Is Franklin, Tennessee, a good place to live?
Franklin is often regarded as one of the best places to live in Tennessee due to its historic charm, strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a thriving job market. It’s an attractive destination for families and individuals seeking a balanced lifestyle.
What is the cost of living in Tennessee compared to other states?
Tennessee generally has a lower cost of living compared to many other states, with no state income tax. However, cost of living can vary significantly between cities. Major cities like Nashville and Franklin may have a higher cost of living compared to smaller towns.
Are there good job opportunities in Tennessee?
Tennessee has a diverse job market, with opportunities in healthcare, manufacturing, music and entertainment, and technology sectors. Nashville, in particular, is known for its thriving music and healthcare industries. Job availability can vary depending on your field and location.
What is the climate like in Tennessee?
Tennessee experiences a varied climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are generally mild in the lower elevations, while summers can be hot and humid. The state is known for its beautiful fall foliage.
