The past few years have shown us that life can change suddenly. Things are different now, and many people are reconsidering what’s important to them, like their job and where they live. If you like having both nature and city conveniences, Tennessee is a great choice.
It’s a big state with lots of open spaces, with the Appalachian Mountains on one side and the historic Mississippi River on the other. You can do many outdoor activities and enjoy beautiful landscapes. Tennessee also has some exciting cities, where you can find live music and go hiking, all within a short drive.
And the best part is, you can still find affordable housing in these cities, without sacrificing your career options.
12. Brentwood
Brentwood, a suburb of Nashville, has become a popular place to live and visit in Tennessee. With a population of just over 40,000 people, the town has a wealthy reputation and is home to country music stars and luxury amenities. The area is surrounded by beautiful hills and vegetation.
Residents can enjoy more than a dozen public parks with hiking trails, picnic areas, and other outdoor activities. Living here offers easy access to Nashville’s vibrant city center, live music, and delicious food. The city’s major international airport allows for convenient travel within the US and around the world.
Parents will be pleased to know that Brentwood has one of the best school districts in the state. With plenty of activities available, even after school hours, it is a great town for families.
11. Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg, a town in Tennessee, offers a combination of urban amenities and outdoor opportunities. It is located in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains and has affordable housing options. Renters in Gatlinburg pay 20% less on their leases compared to other major towns in the state.
The surrounding area has more than two dozen schools, most of which have high ratings. Gatlinburg is known for its diversity and overall education level. However, what really attracts people to Gatlinburg is the lifestyle it offers. The downtown area has many breweries and distilleries for both locals and travelers to enjoy.
Additionally, within a short drive, you can hike some of the largest mountains on the east coast.
10. Memphis
Memphis is well-known for its diverse music scene, including blues, rock, and country, as well as its delicious Southern cuisine. It is a popular destination for recent graduates and couples due to its vibrant culture, lively atmosphere, and thriving social scene.
Memphis has a rich historical background that goes back even before the Civil War and played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement. In addition to its music venues, the city offers a variety of historical museums that provide insights into the city and the entire country.
Those who visit or live in Memphis can also enjoy outdoor activities near the downtown area, such as exploring the Mississippi River or visiting Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park located to the north.
9. Hendersonville
Hendersonville, a town near Nashville, provides a combination of city fun and peaceful surroundings for its residents. Located on the shores of Old Hickory Lake, people can enjoy various activities like going to the beach, fishing, and boating. Additionally, there are walking trails around the lake for those who prefer being close to nature.
In terms of entertainment, Hendersonville offers the Streets of Indian Lake, a vibrant area with something for everyone, including shops and restaurants. The town also has its unique charm with many local businesses and a reasonable cost of living. Families will find great schools and a safe community with low crime rates.
Furthermore, affordable homes make Hendersonville an even more appealing place to live.
8. Nashville
Nashville is a popular place in Tennessee for both residents and tourists because of its location on the Cumberland River. It is especially famous for its live music scene and being the center of country music.
But life in Nashville is about more than just music – there are also beautiful neighborhoods to explore, like the ones we mentioned earlier. There are also local parks, with Centennial Park being a notable one because it has a recreation of the Parthenon.
Additionally, there are many world-class museums, such as the Country Music Hall of Fame, and an art district that is thriving. The architecture in downtown Nashville is a mix of old and new, which gives the streets a vibrant look.
The river also offers plenty of outdoor activities, and Nashville is also home to the NFL team, the Tennessee Titans.
7. Oak Ridge
Oak Ridge was originally designed as a planned city, but since the 1950s, it has stood independently. Over the years, the city has grown into a tight-knit community with a spacious suburban layout, allowing its residents to enjoy ample breathing room.
It all began with a fascinating purpose: Oak Ridge was established to develop technology that would contribute to ending World War II. Today, it has become a hub for the Department of Energy and a national laboratory, offering excellent job prospects for its 29,000 residents and recent graduates.
With low crime rates compared to the rest of Tennessee and affordable housing and rent prices below the national average, Oak Ridge is an attractive place to live.
6. Townsend
Townsend is located about 45 minutes away from Knoxville and offers easy access to the beautiful mountains of Tennessee. This small town is peaceful and charming, making it an ideal starting point for outdoor adventures. With a population of less than 400 people, Townsend can be incredibly serene, especially during certain times of the year.
This tranquil and budget-friendly atmosphere makes it an appealing option for retirees or individuals seeking an escape from the fast-paced city life.
Although quiet most of the time, Townsend can also be lively and bustling during peak travel seasons, which adds to its charm and makes it an enjoyable place to visit, particularly in the warmer months.
5. Murfreesboro
In the coming years, the city of Murfreesboro has the potential to move up on the list. However, people who choose to live here now can stay ahead of the trend because of the thriving economy. Murfreesboro is experiencing rapid growth and currently has a population of over 136,000.
Despite the increase in residents, housing costs have not gone up yet. Newcomers can enjoy a strong school system, many public parks, and a vibrant food culture. Additionally, Murfreesboro is located just 40 minutes away from Nashville and is home to Middle Tennessee State University.
4. Chattanooga
Chattanooga, the fourth largest city in Tennessee, is located near the Tennessee River and the Appalachian Mountains. It has four major highways for easy travel, but there are many reasons to stay. Chattanooga is both scenic and affordable, offering historical sites, stunning views, and a good balance of indoor and outdoor activities.
This makes it a great choice for everyone. With a large population, there are plenty of job opportunities, as well as many schools and colleges. The local culture is diverse and has attracted people from all over the country. Plus, you can enjoy delicious food and explore the charming downtown Riverwalk.
3. Germantown
People who live in Germantown have the advantage of being close to Memphis and its urban offerings. However, Germantown itself is known for having excellent hospitals in the area. Families with children have access to many shopping centers, lively streets, spacious parks, and fantastic dining options.
The residents particularly cherish Old Germantown, an area within the downtown district that holds the history of the town’s beginnings.
2. Franklin
Franklin, a town located just south of Nashville, has a population of around 80,000 people. Although it is close to a larger city, the residents of Franklin are not bothered by this. They enjoy a close-knit community, and the atmosphere in Franklin is suburban and pleasant.
Many people in Franklin own their own homes, and it is a great place for families, couples, and recent graduates. The average age of the locals is in the high thirties, which adds to the youthful vibe of the town. The downtown area is lively but not overwhelming, with fantastic shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Franklin is also known for having one of the best school systems in Tennessee, making it an excellent place for families with school-age children. Additionally, the town has a rich Civil War history and numerous local parks, making it an ideal place to grow up.
1. Collierville
If you’re considering moving to Memphis, you should definitely consider checking out Collierville. This friendly suburb is perfect for families, with excellent schools and a charming small-town atmosphere centered around the beautiful town square.
It’s a great choice for those who want the benefits of small-town life while still having easy access to a larger city. Despite having a population of 44,000, Collierville manages to maintain its cozy vibe with its adorable independent shops, cozy cafes, and public parks.
One of the best things about Collierville is its affordable housing options, even though its residents enjoy higher incomes than average.