Profoundly American and proudly Southern, Tennessee is a state in a league of its own. Over the past few years, more and more people have been packing up and heading to the Volunteer State.

According to the Tennessee State Data Center, in 2024 alone, Tennessee welcomed around 80,000 new residents. This surge in newcomers is fueled by domestic and international migration, drawn in by Tennessee’s mix of opportunity, affordability, and charm.

If you’re considering making the move with your family, you’re probably wondering: Where are the best places to put down roots? Fortunately, Tennessee has plenty of cities and towns that check all the boxes: excellent schools, family-friendly amenities, economic opportunity, and a tax-friendly environment.

To make your decision easier, we’ve rounded up nine of the best places in Tennessee to raise a family, ensuring you find a spot that offers the high quality of life you’re looking for.

The 7 Best Cities in Tennessee To Raise a Family 

Germantown

Looking to move to a suburb that offers tranquility and quality of life while keeping you close to the city? Consider Germantown, a livable Shelby County suburban city and prominent Memphis suburb known for its top-performing schools, safe neighborhoods, good healthcare facilities (Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown Hospital has pediatric care), and abundant activities for all ages. 

The Germantown real estate market thrives with spacious single-family homes on expansive lots, high bathroom and bedroom count, and high-end features and craftsmanship. Some of them can be described as mansions. 

You can expect pools with guest houses, outdoor living areas with covered verandas, and marble flooring in some luxury listings in the city. The average home value in this suburb is currently $473,564, and properties spend approximately 56 days on the market before changing hands. The top neighborhoods to consider include Kimbrough Woods, Farmington Meadows, and Dogwood Grove.

Niche.com named Germantown as the #1 best place to raise a family in Tennessee, and the schools are a major part of it. Families moving to Germantown will find private, public, and charter schools with strong programs under the supervision of the high-ranked Germantown Municipal School District.

Besides homes and schools, Germantown, Tennessee, offers a variety of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages. Some top recommendations include the local parks and playgrounds (Dogwood Park and Germantown Station Park are popular), Germantown Performing Arts Center (GPAC), and family-friendly events such as the Germantown Festival.

Brentwood

Just south of Nashville, nestled in scenic Williamson County, is one of the best places to raise a family in Tennessee: the affluent suburb of Brentwood. The highly regarded city is growing fast and offers high living standards for those looking for educational excellence, abundant recreation, and easy access to everything vibrant Nashville offers. 

Warm, safe, and welcoming, Brentwood offers families a supportive environment to thrive and make meaningful connections and friendships. The housing market is high value to pair with the top-notch community and vibe. Brentwood real estate has an average value of $1,307,258. 

The top upscale living options are within gated communities, where homebuyers can find expansive single-family houses with expansive yards and lawns for kids to explore. Many homes have family-friendly features, like tree-houses, soccer fields, or playgrounds. Beyond the detached housing, you can also find apartment and condo complexes and townhouses for sale in Brentwood for a low-maintenance lifestyle. 

Recreation in Brentwood is also very desirable, with many picturesque parks and green areas (including 164-acre Crockett Park), high-end shopping centers, and cultural amenities. The recreation centers also allow parents to relax and keep kiddos busy. They often include pools, fitness areas, youth sports leagues, various classes, and activities catering to every interest. 

While Brentwood is a suburb of Nashville, it is a thriving city in its own right. Home to the headquarters of major companies like Tractor Supply Company, CoreCivic, and Kirkland’s Home, it offers a strong job market across diverse industries. Here, you don’t have to choose between career growth and an excellent quality of life; you can do both without the long commutes.

Signal Mountain

Signal Mountain is one of the most coveted suburbs to move to Chattanooga and undoubtedly one of the best towns in Tennessee to raise a family. Sparse, secluded, and affluent, this community of 8,523 residents is circled by scenic Tennessee River Gorge and has a crime rate 80% below the national average, according to AreaVibes.

The Signal Mountain real estate market is packed with options for every homebuyer, from sprawling single-family homes on acreage for growing families to townhouses and condominiums for professionals and grand estates and mansions for luxury homebuyers and investors. The average house value in Signal Mountain is currently $578,433, above the US average. The market is healthy and dynamic, with properties going pending quickly and building equity fast. 

The town is divided into several neighborhoods, each boasting amenities and atmosphere. Some options you can research include Old Town, Walden, and Hidden Brook. They all have precious tree-lined streets that blend with the homes’ well-groomed lawns, scenic views, and a strong sense of community. They also have proximity to Signal Mountain amenities and things to do. 

Signal Mountain locals go picnicking with the family, take the kids to the park, or entertain themselves by hiking or enjoying an afternoon of shopping and relaxing. While this is a traditional mountain town, it has plenty of energy and local cafes, eateries, and stores not to be considered sleepy. 

Popular places to enjoy the outdoors include Signal Point (the highest point of the Julia Falls Overlook Trail), the Rainbow Lake Wilderness Trail, The Pumpkin Patch Playground, and Shackleford Ridge County Park.

Spring Hill

With its mild winters, thriving community, and good local schools, Spring Hill, located about 36 miles south of Nashville Metro, is worth considering when researching the best cities in Tennessee to raise a family. Families are drawn to this city, which is spread across Maury and Williamson counties, for its unique lifestyle options and peaceful suburban environment. 

Spring Hill is growing fast, so it is not uncommon to encounter new developments in several areas. The city has a large and diverse housing inventory that has been attracting Nashville real estate buyers for quite some time, even with a high-value average property price of 

 $507,864. 

The homes for sale in Spring Hill are primarily single-family dwellings of diverse square footage, both existing and new builds, with appealing layouts and family-centered features, including large backyards. Some of the most coveted neighborhoods in Spring Hill are gated communities like secluded Autumn Ridge, with amenities, security, and extra privacy. There’s also Campbell Station and Burtonwood, whose housing offers townhouses for families craving more affordability without giving up comfort. 

Spring Hill is known for its family-centered amenities and services. Healthcare providers like The TriStar Spring Hill ER provide family care and emergency services. Still, there are also local shopping areas (The Crossings of Spring Hill), community centers, public parks for every age group, and yearly family events like the Spring Hill Christmas Parade. Education is another perf of moving to Spring Hill, which has over 60 options for public education across two counties.

Mount Juliet, TN

Mount Juliet, TN, is a rapidly growing, family-oriented suburb located just east of Nashville. Known for its pleasant atmosphere, tight knight community, excellent schools under the guidance of the Wilson County School District, low crime rates, and a variety of amenities, it’s no wonder that many families are choosing to call Mount Juliet home.

Mount Juliet is gaining popularity, which has caused housing prices to skyrocket. The average home value in this Wilson County city is $545,51,6, and the market remains dynamic and favors sellers. 

Attractive options for first-time homebuyers and families in Mount Juliet include spacious single-family residences sitting on ample lots and brand-new townhomes for sale in communities like Windtree Townhomes. Top neighborhoods for families in Mount Juliet include Nichols Vale, Triple Crown, providence, and Wright Farms. 

Mount Juliet is rich in recreational activities and is suitable for all ages. Parks and green spaces have playgrounds, trails for walking, hiking, biking, and picnic areas. Charlie Daniels Park and Cedar Creek Recreation Area are local favorites. In addition, the community hosts events throughout the year, including festivals, farmers’ markets, and holiday celebrations.

Kids have community centers offering additional outdoor activities and sports, with organized leagues and other events for added fun. There are also shopping centers, giving residents access to retail stores, boutiques, and many dining options for every taste. 

Farragut

Pleasantly suburban and designed to make young families and professionals feel right at home, it doesn’t get better than Farragut for relocators wanting to settle not far from Knoxville, Tennessee. Farragut was incorporated in 1980 and has just over 22,500 happy residents. 

The homes for sale in Farragut are commonly spacious detached, single-family properties on generous lots. The average home value in Farragut, TN, is $648,335, nearly 50% higher than the average Knoxville home value of $350,035. The area is praised for its safety, has streets lined with mature trees, and is surrounded by public and private schools.

The local public school system is well-reputed. Families favor traditional communities like Fox Den or Village Green for their distinctive architecture from the 70s and 80s and the abundance of nearby amenities and lush parks, dog parks, and green spaces. McFee Park is a family favorite because of its trails and splash pad. Areas like Berkeley Park and Bridgemore have newer construction that is also convenient for local schools. 

Families and individuals relocating to Farragut also enjoy the benefits of being outdoors frequently. Locals often go hiking or fishing at The Great Smoky Mountain National Park, located less than an hour’s drive away. Another hot spot for outdoor water-based recreation is Fort Loudoun Lake.

Farragut is steeped in history but eagerly contemporary. You can visit its museums (Farragut Museum and Gift Shop) and historic sites (Farragut’s Town Hall, historic Campbell Station Inn) for a hint of the town’s dynamic past, or head to Farragut’s Turkey Creek Shopping Center or Village Green Shopping Center for some retail therapy. Don’t skip the local dining scene, which includes famous Tennessee barbecue, freshly baked goods at the local bakeries, or more fine dining options. 

Maryville

Niche.com named Maryville the #1 best place to raise a family in Blount County, TN, and we can perfectly understand why. This charming Knoxville suburb –nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, seamlessly blends small-town warmth with modern amenities.

Maryville, Tennessee, offers a diverse and dynamic real estate market, making it an attractive destination for families seeking a blend of affordability, quality housing, and an intense community atmosphere. The current average home value is $368,600, below the national average! Homes typically remain on the market for about 62 days, signs of a balanced market with opportunities for buyers and sellers alike.

Families in Maryville have a range of housing choices to fit their needs and lifestyles, including single-family homes ranging from budget-friendly starter homes to spacious properties with large yards, townhomes and condos for those preferring a low-maintenance lifestyle, shared amenities, and easy access to the city, and some new builds with energy-efficient designs and contemporary layouts.

Maryville’s family-friendly environment is complemented by its excellent public schools, numerous parks, and various recreational activities. The city’s proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains provides ample opportunities for outdoor adventures, while local events and cultural attractions foster a strong sense of community.

What Makes a Neighborhood Family-Friendly

A great neighborhood for families isn’t just about nice houses; it’s more about the environment where kids can thrive while parents enjoy the process and work on their goals. Here’s what to look for when searching for the best place to live in Tennessee with a family:

Quality Education

Strong school systems can make a big difference in any child’s future. Look for top-rated schools, strong teacher support, and access to extracurricular programs in the area of Tennessee you are attracted to. Checking state school rankings, parent reviews, and test scores can also help gauge a district’s quality.

Pro Tip: Visit schools in person, attend an open house, or talk to parents in local social media groups to get firsthand insights on how the schools operate beyond just rankings.

Safety

A low crime rate, well-lit streets, and an active neighborhood watch are key indicators of a secure area. Research local crime statistics, talk to residents, and visit your Tennessee location at different times of the day to get a feel for safety.

Pro Tip: Drive or walk around the neighborhood in Tennessee you’re interested in. Do so in the evening to see how well-lit the streets are and whether families feel comfortable walking around or simply being outside.

Parks and Playgrounds

Access to green spaces, walking trails, and kid-friendly parks provides room for families to be active and enjoy the outdoors. Once you locate your future living spot in Tennessee, look for well-maintained playgrounds, community centers, and recreational programs for families.

Pro Tip: Drive around to check how busy the parks are on weekends. An active park often means a strong, family-friendly community.

Nearby Healthcare Facilities

Quick access to pediatricians, hospitals, and urgent care centers is essential for parents moving to Tennessee with young children. Research local hospitals, clinics, and medical specialists in the area to rest assured quality healthcare is readily available.

Pro Tip: Call nearby pediatricians or family doctors to see if they accept new patients.

Close-by Every Fay Necessities

You might not see distance from basic services and amenities as a big deal when you have a car, but convenience plays a bigger role in daily life than expected. Grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, daycares, and family-friendly restaurants within a short drive make daily life smoother. When exploring a neighborhood in Tennessee, check how far essential services are from potential homes you’re considering buying.

Pro Tip: Take a test run and be local for a day. Spend a few hours in the area where you plan to buy a Tennessee home, running errands like grocery shopping or dining out to see how convenient daily life feels.

Community 

A strong sense of belonging comes from local events, active sports leagues, and friendly neighbors. Look for a town with regular community gatherings, farmers’ markets, and festivals. Visiting local parks, joining neighborhood groups online, and talking to residents can help you get a feel for how welcoming a community is.

Pro Tip: Visit a local coffee shop or library and converse casually with residents. You’ll quickly understand how friendly and engaged the community is.

Conclusion: Best Places to Live in Tennessee For Families

Tennessee ranked as the 11th fastest-growing state in 2024, and it’s easy to see why. With welcoming communities, strong job markets, and plenty of family-friendly amenities, it’s a place where putting down roots is a no-brainer. We hope our guide has helped you find a town or city that feels like the right fit for your family.

As you plan your move and search for listings of single-family homes in Tennessee, check out our affordability calculator to see what properties are within your budget, or use our mortgage calculator to map out your financing.

Here’s to finding not just a house but a place to truly call home. Happy house hunting!