The 10 Best Places To Live In Tennessee

So, you vacationed in Tennessee and fell in love. Or maybe you’re a native looking to relocate to a different area. Whatever your circumstance, you likely have many things to consider before choosing a new place to call home. After all, Tennessee is a diverse state with much to offer, ranging from tranquil, mountainous regions to big, buzzing cities.

With each city having its own distinct feel, it can be difficult to figure out which is the best fit for you. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here’s our list of the best places to live in Tennessee.

How We Decided On The Top Places To Live In Tennessee

Of course, the best places to live in Tennessee will vary according to each individual’s preferences. However, we’ve compiled our list based on a number of factors including population, median household income, median home sale price and median gross rent. We also considered factors such as the cost of living, unemployment rate, crime rate, public education and geographic location.

Population, median household income, median home sale price and median gross rent are sourced from World Population Review in July 2022. Keep in mind, however, that these statistics are subject to change.

The Best Cities To Live In Tennessee

Before making your move, consider these 10 cities that have been regarded as some of the best places to live in Tennessee.

1. Nashville

• Population: 682,262
• Median household income: $83,348
• Median home sale price: $471,521
• Median gross rent: $1,170

Starting on a high note, Nashville is a gem of Tennessee — and hopefully this is music to your ears! Fittingly known as “the Music City,” this Nashville has inseparable ties to country music, so you will find no shortage of music-related attractions. While living in this musical city, expect to see a host of radio stations and networks, recording studios, publishing houses and other establishments in the music industry.

Even if you’re not looking to snag a record deal, Nashville has plenty more to see and do. During the day you might want to check out one of the city’s many museums, parks or historic buildings; the Country Music Hall of Fame, Cumberland Park and the Parthenon are all popular attractions! And at dusk, Nashville’s vibrant nightlife comes by way of bars, clubs and live performances of all kinds.

Nashville is a great choice for the music lover, but it also doesn’t forget about the foodie! Hot chicken and barbecue are just two of many iconic foods found in this culinary city. With over 5,000 restaurants, Nashville offers a variety of delicious dining choices.

It can also be a wonderful place to lead a professional and productive life. It is no surprise that U.S. News has ranked Nashville the #1 best place to live in Tennessee. It earns this distinction on account of its relatively affordable cost of living, rising home values and promising job market. Appropriately called “Athens of the South,” Nashville is also home to more than 20 colleges and universities — making it an attractive destination for young professionals.

If Nashville sounds like the place for you, make sure to check out homes for sale in Nashville.

2. Knoxville

• Population: 188,326
• Median household income: $58,801
• Median home sale price: $239,999
• Median gross rent: $883

Located in eastern Tennessee, Knoxville rests on the banks of the Tennessee River. It has been described as a city having “a unique mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure and cultural attractions” — and for good reason. This versatile city is within reach of picturesque places like the Great Smoky Mountains, and bustling cities like Nashville, Atlanta and Chattanooga.

Being once a prominent site of the Civil War, Knoxville prides itself on illuminating the past while still breathing life into the present. Here you can dig deep into a piece of U.S. history by visiting battle sites, historic buildings and museums.

But if you’re not keen on its history, don’t turn the page on Knoxville just yet! Instead, you might consider attending one of the city’s many festivals or catching a show at one of its award-winning theatres. Other popular spots include Market Square, the Knoxville Zoo and the Ijams Nature Center.

While you may already be sold on Knoxville’s attractions, there’s more about this city that you may find appealing. Those who decide to call Knoxville home also enjoy relatively lower housing, utility and transportation costs.

With a below average cost of living and monthly rent, you may be ready to make the move to Knoxville. If so, check out homes for sale in Knoxville.

3. Chattanooga

• Population: 185,442
• Median household income: $69,197
• Median home sale price: $289,352
• Median gross rent: $891

Chattanooga has been widely regarded as a must-see destination by noteworthy names such as the New York Times, U.S. News and the “Today Show.” With a beautiful riverfront and sprawling Riverwalk spanning some 13 miles, this southeastern Tennessee city earns its nickname “the Scenic City.” Chattanoogans have access to a variety of scenic outdoor activities such as rock climbing, horseback riding, hiking trails, white-water rafting and more.

Along with displaying its natural beauty, Chattanooga exudes a small-town energy, celebrating its many local businesses. This close-knit city has a host of restaurants, small boutiques, specialty coffee shops and farmers markets.

Downtown Chattanooga also brings a unique presence to the city; maybe you’ll choose to spend leisure time at the Tennessee Aquarium, the iconic Walnut Street Bridge or the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel.

With a comparatively low cost of living, many families have chosen to settle down in Chattanooga. However, such an influx in residents explains the rising rent prices in this fast-growing city.

If you’re considering buying a home of your own, check out homes for sale in Chattanooga.

4. Memphis

• Population: 650,980
• Median household income: $62,588
• Median home sale price: $186,248
• Median gross rent: $915

With the name Memphis meaning “established and beautiful,” you may know this southwestern Tennessee city for its monumental contributions to U.S. history. Memphis is not only the “Home of the Blues and Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” but also a living ode to its Southern heritage.

This historic city invites you to tour Graceland, Elvis Presley’s rockin’ 120-acre mansion. And the National Civil Rights Museum — located at the Lorraine Motel where civil rights legend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated — shows the solemn side of Memphis. Living in such a significant place just might give you a new perspective on life.

But don’t let its claim on history fool you. Memphis is a contemporary city with many lively attractions—and Beale Street is just one example. Heralded as one of the most iconic streets in America, expect to be welcomed with live music, clubs, restaurants and shops. No wonder this musical hub is one of the most visited attractions in the state of Tennessee!

Memphis shows the best it has to offer in hopes that you’ll stay. With a low cost of living, Memphis residents benefit from lower prices on rent, mortgage, food and services. Also, being home to the University of Memphis and more than 2,000 churches may make this a suitable place for families and students.

One thing, though, to consider before moving to Memphis is its high crime rate. In fact, U.S. News named it the most dangerous place to live in the United States.

Be sure to settle down in a home that you’ll feel safe in. Check out homes for sale in Memphis.

5. Franklin

• Population: 89,307
• Median household income: $123,066
• Median home sale price: $689,704
• Median gross rent: $1,553

Approximately 20 miles south of Nashville, Franklin is a smaller, suburban city that may be perfect if you’re looking to escape the bustle of city life while staying within driving distance. Historians may quickly find a home in Franklin as it was a battle site in the American Civil War. For this reason, there’s no shortage of historic homes, patriotic parks and other educational attractions.

If you’re looking for the one place that captures the essence of Franklin, consider taking a stroll around the Great American Main Street. Located in Downtown Franklin, this iconic 16-block stretch has fantastic food, awe-inspiring architecture, art galleries and boutiques. The Franklin Theatre, the Factory, and Landmark Booksellers are just a few popular destinations in this area.

Franklin isn’t just known for its history. It’s considered one of the best places to live — not just in Tennessee but in the country — thanks to its growing job market, low unemployment rate and excellent schools.

Did you know that Franklin has a homeownership rate of 65.4%? Check out homes for sale in Franklin to find your forever home! 

6. Murfreesboro

• Population: 163,274
• Median household income: $80,344
• Median home sale price: $375,897
• Median gross rent: $1,095

Over a century and a half ago, one of the Civil War’s bloodiest battles happened in Murfreesboro. This central Tennessee city may be known for its harrowing history, but there are many reasons you might consider living in Murfreesboro.

Home to Middle Tennessee State University and many historic sites, Murfreesboro has been identified as one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. You may enjoy cheering on the university’s Blue Raiders at a football game or taking a tour of the Stones River National Battlefield.

There’s plenty more to do in this historic city! Downtown Murfreesboro, also known as Murfreesboro Square, has a variety of shops and restaurants. Mayday Brewery is a popular spot among locals, and The Alley on Main is known for its delicious meals freshly made in-house.

If you’re looking to get active while taking in beautiful scenery, Barfield Crescent Park has more than seven miles of nature trails, an 18-hole disc golf course, Wilderness Station and more.

Within commuting distance of both Nashville and Franklin, many professionals find that Murfreesboro offers the best of both worlds — an escape from the busy city and an array of secular and recreational opportunities. But you don’t necessarily have to leave the city to earn a living; with its fast-growing population, Murfreesboro is also experiencing a growing job market.

Be sure to explore homes for sale in Murfreesboro.

7. Hendersonville

• Population: 59,550
• Median household income: $100,291
• Median home sale price: $434,950
• Median gross rent: $1,169

Located 18 miles northeast of downtown Nashville, Hendersonville is also known as “the City by the Lake” — that lake being Old Hickory Lake. Old Hickory Lake is made up of over 22,000 acres of water and 440 miles of shoreline, making it the perfect place for water activities. Many residents enjoy fishing, kayaking, swimming and boating in their leisure time. Hendersonville is also home to many parks, marinas and historic sites. You may enjoy visiting Rock Castle, the oldest house in middle Tennessee.

Hendersonville also has much to offer families. With top-ranked schools and a low unemployment rate, all age groups have the potential to thrive in this small Nashville suburb.

Check out homes for sale in Hendersonville.

8. Mount Juliet

• Population: 41,133
• Median household income: $103,492
• Median home sale price: $440,000
• Median gross rent: $1,562

Mount Juliet is also a suburb of Nashville, located approximately 17 miles east of downtown Nashville. Although relatively small in population, this city is experiencing significant growth with an annual growth of 3.44%.

Not only will you find award-winning schools and low tax rates in Mt. Juliet, but you’ll also find that there’s much to do. Providence Marketplace has over 60 stores and restaurants, as well as a movie theater and other entertainment options. Residents also have access to a variety of outdoor parks; the Charlie Daniels Park is a popular one, as the local farmer’s market is held here.

If this sounds like the place for you, check out homes for sale in Mount Juliet.

9. Spring Hill

• Population: 50,711
• Median household income: $99,769
• Median home sale price: $456,337
• Median gross rent: $1,429

Spring Hill is located approximately 30 miles south of Nashville sharing two counties, Williamson and Maury county. Despite being a smaller city, Spring Hill is home to some major plant operations which aids in economic and job growth. Families might also find Spring Hill appealing on account of it having two public school districts, providing students with more educational opportunities.

In their leisure time, residents have a variety of activities to choose from. Fischer Park, Spring Hill’s largest park, has a playground, sporting fields, walking paths and many more features to enjoy. You will also find wonderful restaurants, breweries and bars that offer live entertainment and nightlife fun.

Check out homes for sale in Spring Hill.

10. Collierville

• Population: 52,147
• Median household income: $143,456
• Median home sale price: $498,384
• Median gross rent: $1,354

Just 25 miles east of Memphis, Collierville is a west Tennessee city that offers a quality living experience. Like many other cities in this historic state, there’s no shortage of attractions that seek to preserve the past. The historic Town Square offers antebellum architecture, specialty shops and boutiques, tasty eateries and an old-fashioned gas station. The Town Square also hosts the Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Jam from April to October, where musicians have been gathering for 22 years to play bluegrass and traditional folk music.

Collierville is known for its friendly Southern atmosphere and top-notch amenities. Here you will find award-winning parks and recreation facilities, quality schools and safe neighborhoods.

Check out homes for sale in Collierville.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re looking for your next big city adventure or a quieter place to settle down, Tennessee is bound to have a place that’s right for you. While we’ve shared just a few of the best places to live in Tennessee, there are many other places in this great state that might steal your heart. Just make sure that the next place you call home is the best fit for you!

If you’re ready to take the first step in finding your forever home, get approved for a mortgage today.