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Living in Tennessee
Sunday, January 19, 2025

What to Know About Living in Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville isn’t just a city—it’s a whole vibe. It’s a fast-growing destination celebrating Southern culture, busy with dazzling opportunities and that unbeatable Southern charm. No wonder so many people are moving to Nashville! But before you buy that rhinestone-studded hat and boots, you may wonder if Nashville Living’s promise matches the reality. Here’s what to know about living in Nashville.

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Table of Contents

Metro Overview

Culture and Lifestyle

Dining and Nightlife

Things to Do in Nashville

Job Market and Economy

Education in Nashville

Commuting in Nashville

Weather and Climate

Real Estate and Cost of Living

Why Moving to Nashville Might Be Perfect for You

Metro Overview

As the seat of Davidson County and state capital, Nashville’s unique history, modern innovation, and creativity lend it an appeal to many. The population has exploded in the last decade as young professionals chase new jobs in healthcare and technology and retirees look for their perfect spot to settle down. It added 1.1% more residents from 2023 to 2024, amounting to about 68 people per day moving to the greater metro. As of 2024, over 715,000 people were in the city and another 3.15 in the MSA.

Modern Nashville is on both sides of the Cumberland River, which snakes through Davidson County on its way to the Tennessee River. It’s a hub for Middle Tennessee, with a network of Interstates spiraling out to destinations beyond. The hills of the Cumberland Plateau run beyond its suburbs, turning quickly into farmland and homesteads. 

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The “Music City” nickname comes from its country music industry. The “Home of Country Music” includes the famous Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and a bevy of recording studios. Those who love the twang and guitar skip over Hollywood in favor of Nashville for making their run at stardom.

The city isn’t all music, though. Historic Vanderbilt University is the “Ivy of the South” with its competitive admissions and rigorous academic programs. Nashville also boasts competitive job opportunities in expanding fields, making it a desirable location for career advancement. That growth spurred its real estate market to rank among the “hottest” for several years in a row.

Get a closer look at living in Nashville, Tennessee.

Culture and Lifestyle

Country Music Scene

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First things first—Nashville lives and breathes music. More than just the hub of country tunes, the city’s famous lively music scene spans rock, blues, R&B, and everything in between. Legendary venues like the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium aren’t just tourist hotspots; they’re cornerstones of Nashville’s identity. If live music is your jam, Broadway’s honky-tonks and neighborhood shows ensure there’s always a tune carrying your way. Music Row is the place where legends are made. In total, Nashville has 150 performance venues.

Creative Arts and Festivals

Beyond music, Nashville’s creative pulse resonates in its art galleries, street murals, and festivals. Take a stroll through local exhibits or visit a mural hotspot like “What Lifts You” in The Gulch. Another striking symbol is the city’s Parthenon in Centennial Park, built for the World’s Fair. The iconic site houses a full-size Athena statue replica and an art museum.

Events like the Nashville Film Festival and the quirky Tomato Art Fest in historic Five Points unite people to celebrate art in all forms. During the summer, the parks and green spaces turn into amphitheaters for Live on the Green music festivals and outdoor concerts. Explore art walks and farmer’s markets, or come for Artober, a month-long celebration of all art forms across the Nashville area.

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The city also has one of the nation’s best New Year’s Eve party scenes, with live music all night. Among festival lovers, the Bonaroo Music and Arts Festival is a definite bucket list event on the circuit. Top acts grace its stages each year.

Southern Hospitality

What really sets Nashville apart is its warm, welcoming vibe. “Southern hospitality” isn’t just a buzzword here—it’s a way of life. Expect smiling faces, friendly neighbors, and an open invitation to immerse yourself in the community. People do wave at you on the streets and hold the door open. Conde Nast ranked Nashville among the top ten friendliest cities in the U.S.

Sports Culture

Drive through downtown Nashville, and you can’t miss Nissan Stadium rising by the riverbank. And if it’s fall, and there looks like a lot of orange everywhere…well, it’s football season! The city has a deep sports culture and a passionate fan base for its multiple pro sports teams. When moving to Nashville, get ready to see team pride everywhere. The local grocery store will have baked goods decorated in orange icing and businesses will empty out on football game days. The many sports and related events often surprise those new to Music City. Sports Business Journal ranked Nashville among the top ten cities for sports-based businesses.

Professional Teams

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Sports fans will feel right at home cheering for the Tennessee Titans (NFL). The Titans play at Nissan Stadium, where fans pack the stands for exciting football action. The team’s iconic sword salute and spirited fanbase make game days unforgettable.

Catching a Nashville Predators (NHL) match. Smashville (Bridgestone Arena) is home to the Predators, known for their passionate fans, famous “gold out” games, and electric playoff runs. The “fang fingers” tradition and post-goal chants are a must-see!

The Nashville Soccer Club is a rising star in the city’s sports scene. The team plays at GEODIS Park, the largest soccer-specific stadium in the U.S. The supporter groups, like The Backline, bring energy and creativity to every match. is also a significant part of the city’s professional sports landscape.

Nashville Sounds (Minor League Baseball) promises a family-friendly experience at First Horizon Park, complete with a guitar-shaped scoreboard and entertainment for all ages.

Collegiate Sports

Looking for more action? Hold season tickets for Vanderbilt University’s games. The college’s football and basketball teams have a loyal following. Their SEC affiliation means competitive matchups and exciting game days. or join a local sports league for some friendly competition.

Belmont Bruins and Lipscomb Bisons are two more local universities with strong basketball programs that provide affordable and exciting opportunities to catch collegiate action.

Additionally, the Music City Bowl is an annual college football bowl game held at Nissan Stadium, bringing fans from across the country. The Bridgestone Arena is home court to SEC basketball tournaments. 

Community Sports

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Nashville offers extensive youth soccer, baseball, basketball, and hockey programs. Facilities like the Ford Ice Center help foster a growing love for hockey at all levels.

The Rock’n’Roll Nashville Marathon is a major running event featuring live music along the course. It’s definitely fun for the spectators, but the quirk also makes it a favorite among marathon runners and participants.

The adults aren’t left out of the fun, either. Find rock climbing gyms, pickleball clubs, swimming teams, and community centers with various sports leagues. The Nashville Parks and Recreation Department runs adaptive sports programs, too.

Dining and Nightlife

Southern Cuisine

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You can’t talk about Nashville without raving about the food. Hot chicken (try Prince’s or Hattie B’s) and barbecue take center stage. But, don’t miss hidden gems serving farm-to-table cuisine. Some take southern favorites and give them a modern twist.

Souther comfort food is definitely on the menu. Think biscuits and gravy, fried green tomatoes, and mac and cheese. The Loveless Cafe and Arnold’s Country Kitchen–a classic “meat and three” spot–are must-tries. Biscuits are a true art form here, and you’ll have to decide which restaurant serves them best.

Diverse Eats and Neighborhood Spots

Nashville’s dining scene has expanded—whether it’s Korean BBQ, Thai, or Mediterranean, this city delivers. Check out The Gulch for trendy restaurants and 12South for charming cafes and upscale dining.

Nightlife

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When the sun sets, head to one of Nashville’s rooftop bars for skyline views. Or, enjoy late-night eats after hopping between live music venues. Breweries like Yazoo Brewing Company, Bearded Iris, and Jackalope Brewing Co. head the booming craft beer scene.

Things to Do in Nashville

Must-See Tourist Attractions

Nashville is not a dull place. From the food scene to dancing at a honky-tonk, any hints of boredom aren’t the locals’ fault. The music industry is a significant part of Nashville’s identity. Thousands come each year, making tourism a big part of life in Nashville. Even if you go just once, you’ll feel more at home in Nashville if you visit these highlights:

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  • The Country Music Hall of Fame and Johnny Cash Museum for a stroll through music history. These are must-visit stops for country music fans or music lovers in general.
  • Broadway Street, the so-called “Honky-Tony Highway,” is the center of Nashville’s live music scene. Explore the venues under the neon lights at night or bring the kids during the day for more family-friendly fare.
  • Historical gems like Belle Meade Plantation and Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage. Tour the grounds and buildings of these century-old sites. 
  • Frist Art Museum is a hub for the creative. Its rotating art exhibitions feature local and international works. A children’s area nurtures their creative spirit.
  • The Tennessee State Capitol building is open to guided and self-guided tours during the week.

Outdoor Adventures

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Step outside and soak in the natural beauty of Nashville’s parks and waterways. For a dense and fast-growing city, the city and county have worked to preserve its iconic outdoor spaces. Even downtown Nashville has places to enjoy a warm spring day. Counting the entirety of Davidson County, locals have 247 parks, including 29 public playgrounds, 20 splash pads, and 46 dog parks. Favorite local parks for outdoor recreation include:

  • Percy Warner Park and Edwin Warner Park (known locally as “The Warner Parks”) are Nashville’s largest outdoor area. Find 3,100 acres just nine miles from downtown Nashville. Facilities include an equestrian center and golf course.
  • Radnor Lake State Park is a favorite for its scenic hiking trails and wildlife spotting.
  • Kayaking or paddleboarding on the Cumberland River. The waterfront hosts dragon boat and rowing regattas, too!
  • Bicycle the Cumberland River Greenway, spanning the river’s southern shoreline and connecting to the state capitol, First Horizon Park, and Buena Vista Park. The pedestrian bridge has some of the best views of Music City.
  • Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden and art museum with seasonal displays and family-friendly programming all year.
  • Play at one of the 56 golf courses, from waterfront fairways to challenging courses in rolling hills. 

Family-Friendly Activities

Planning a move to Nashville with little ones in tow? Nashville will keep them entertained, too! Besides the pocket parks with playgrounds, try these family-friendly attractions.

  • Take the family to the Nashville Zoo for a hopping good time among kangaroos and other exotic species.
  • Explore science exhibits at the Adventure Science Center. The hands-on exhibits include a planetarium, earth science, and physics area.
  • Wasioto Park (formerly Cumberland Park) has splash pads, climbing structures, and play areas to burn off some energy.
  • Tennessee State Museum is free to visit. Learn about Tennessee’s history, from prehistoric times to the modern era.

Job Market and Economy

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Key Industries

Nashville’s economy is booming. Diverse industries like music, healthcare, tourism, and tech drive this growth. Healthcare and management were the top employing sectors, followed by advanced manufacturing. Other major employing sectors were hospitality, music, and entertainment. Workforce initiatives and incubators support all these industries. 

Opportunities for Growth

A new job may be why you’re moving to Nashville in the first place. The 2% year-over-year job growth rate outpaced the national average, while unemployment continues to trend underneath. It ranked among the top five cities nationwide for 2023.

Beyond the big names, Nashville’s startup community is on the fast track, fostering a creative environment for entrepreneurs. Healthcare, logistics, and technology are the big players here. Companies like HCA Healthcare and Amazon call Music City home. However, in 2022 it was also ranked second in the inflow of technology workers. Skilled workers will find demand for employees.

Low Taxes

One of the standout perks of living in Nashville is the favorable tax environment. Tennessee is one of the few states that doesn’t impose a state income tax, meaning you get to keep more of your hard-earned money. This can translate to significant annual savings, making it an attractive option for those looking to relocate from expensive major cities out West or in the Northeast. 

Additionally, property taxes in Nashville are relatively low, ranking among the lowest in the country. Even the sales tax is on the lower end compared to other states. This means more affordable housing options for prospective homeowners and a lighter financial burden overall. It’s just one more reason why living in Nashville is a smart choice.

Cost of Living

The rapidly appreciating housing market and the high demand to live and work here have pushed up Nashville’s overall cost of living. Overall costs are about 17% higher than the Tennessee average but about 5% above the national average. When you narrow down on housing costs, Nashville is 17% more expensive than the national average price. 

However, other spending areas, like transportation, utilities, and healthcare, align with national averages. All categories are higher than the state’s rates, but partially because Tennessee is generally an affordable cost of living state. 

Education in Nashville

Nashville, compared to other major cities, presents a juxtaposition in education. It has a mix of high-performing and low-performing public and private schools. If quality education matters to you, you’ll want to do deeper research to find the right program.

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K-12 Education

The Metro Nashville Public Schools system is the largest K-12 public education system in Nashville. Its range of programs service 80,000 students in elementary to secondary education across 174 schools. Families try to match their students with rigorous magnet schools, which can be a competitive process involving a lottery. These programs meet student needs with focuses on arts, STEM, IB, and advanced academics. 

Just outside Nashville are several of Tennessee’s best public school districts, like Williamson County and the City of Murfreesboro.

If you can’t find what you want in public education, Nashville has a strong private school network offering religious, Montessori, and college-prep options. About 15% of high school students in Nashville enrolled in a private school.

Higher Education

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Nashville residents gain incredible access to multiple routes for higher education. You may moving to Nashville to pursue studies or work at one of its institutions. Among them are:

  • Vanderbilt University, a prestigious private research university known for its programs in medicine, law, business, and education.
  • Belmont University, renowned for its music business and performance programs, as well as strong business and health sciences offerings.
  • Tennessee State University (TSU), a historically Black university offering diverse undergraduate and graduate programs.
  • Fisk University, a renowned historically Black university (HBCU) known for its strong liberal arts programs and commitment to social justice. Founded in 1866, it is home to the celebrated Fisk Jubilee Singers and has a legacy of producing leaders in various fields.
  • Lipscomb University, a faith-based private university focusing on liberal arts and professional studies.
  • Nashville State Community College, providing affordable two-year degrees, technical programs, and transfer opportunities to four-year universities.
  • Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), with hands-on training in healthcare, automotive, and IT fields.
  • The Recording Academy and SAE Institute, specialized programs for those pursuing careers in audio engineering, music production, and media.

Commuting in Nashville

Here’s the not-so-glamorous truth—living in Nashville, Tennessee, has some challenges when it comes to commuting. Some even call it the worst city to commute in–more so than notorious places like Los Angeles and New York City. 

Driving and Traffic

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Like many growing cities, Nashville relies heavily on cars. Translation: traffic can get hectic during peak hours. Three major interstates crisscross the city: I-40, I-24, and I-65, plus the I-440 connector. All it takes is one snarl to back the whole system up. Average commute times stood at almost 30 minutes in 2023. Expect longer commutes in areas experiencing rapid growth. Add game day traffic or bad weather? Get ready for a real snarl.

Public Transit

Another factor in the commuting challenges is the lack of extensive public transportation like rail service and highly walkable neighborhoods. WeGo Public Transit can get you around the city but faces challenges such as limited coverage and infrequent service. These are common issues with Nashville’s public transportation system. The city is, however, working on expanding transit options for the future.

Walkability and Cycling

Nashville’s walk scores are on the low side. That said, walkable neighborhoods like The Gulch and East Nashville are perfect for those looking for less driving. Nashville is also investing in bike paths and greenways for cyclists. The city acknowledges it needs a comprehensive plan to address the congestion woes.

Weather and Climate

Seasons

Nashville enjoys a range of seasons. Springs bursts into full bloom while fiery autumn colors steal the show. Summers can get hot and humid, but winters remain relatively mild. No need to shovel snow every day!

Weather Risks

Compared to other major cities, Nashville’s unique climate delivers distinct seasonal experiences without the extreme weather conditions often found in larger metropolitan areas. However, occasional severe storms and tornado risks are something to be aware of. Pro tip? Keep an eye on Tennessee’s storm alerts. The changing reasons bring the highest risk of tornadoes, hail, and heavy rains. Ice storms are the most significant winter risk, but you can’t rule out an occasional snow event. 

Seasonal Allergies

Nashville’s lush, green landscape is a sight to behold, but it comes with a catch—seasonal allergies. If you’re moving to Nashville, be prepared for the city’s humid weather and abundant flora. Both can trigger allergies, especially in spring and fall. Pollen surges from trees in the spring, while fall is notorious for hay fever. If you’re prone to allergies, stocking up on medication and consulting with a healthcare professional to develop a management plan is wise. Despite the sneezes, the beauty of Nashville’s natural surroundings is well worth it.

Real Estate and Cost of Living

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Nashville area real estate prices are rising, but the city remains more affordable than hot markets like Austin or Denver. Compared to other major southern cities like Austin and Atlanta, Nashville offers a more budget-friendly option with lower housing costs and property taxes. Still, the past few years have placed Nashville’s housing market growth among the highest in the nation. 

Renting vs. Buying

On average, renting may feel more affordable for newcomers, but limited inventory has made competition fierce. Buyers should start budgeting early and partner with local experts to land their dream home. 

Picking the Right Neighborhood

Choosing the perfect neighborhood is crucial to moving to Nashville. Each part of Music City has a unique vibe and amenities, catering to different lifestyles and preferences. Here are just a few neighborhoods you’ll want to check out in your new city.

  • The Gulch: Just south of downtown Nashville, The Gulch is known for its high-rise housing, delicious dining, and multiple entertainment options. It’s a trendy area perfect for those who enjoy upscale living and bustling nightlife.
  • 12 South: As one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Nashville, it attracts people at all stages of life. Enjoy a rich mix of creative dining and boutique shopping.
  • Downtown Nashville: The heart of the action is a mix of historic and modern buildings. The downtown core living experience places you close to the thriving music and entertainment scene.
  • Hillsboro Village: This charming neighborhood is ideally placed near Vanderbilt University and Belmont University. With its single-family homes, friendly atmosphere, and convenient location, it’s a popular choice for many.
  • Midtown: Another charmer, Midtown’s nightlife scene is the standout perk. Walk to the sports bars and music venues. The colleges are also nearby.
  • Sylvan Park: Known for its cool, laid-back vibe, Sylvan Park mixes all you need for living: park spaces, restored bungalows and Victorians, great restaurants, coffee shops, and local boutiques. It’s a fantastic area for those who appreciate a community feel and easy access to amenities.
  • WeHo: The Wedgewood-Houston area trends towards apartments, but this up-and-coming neighborhood also is home to the Adventure Science Center and Nashville Soccer Club stadium.
  • East Nashville: Appealing to the creative soul, the eclectic vibe is supported by many locally owned shops and businesses. It mixes historic bungalows, condos, and apartments.
  • Green Hills: With a reputation for attracting Nashville’s celebrity clientele, Green Hills’ appeal includes family-friendly living, great schools, and luxury shopping. The area is closer to Mount Juliet.
  • North Nashville: Explore its walkable arts district, located a few miles from downtown. It’s home to four universities.

No matter which neighborhood you choose, you’ll find that each one has its own special charm, making Nashville a diverse and exciting place to live. Other places to look include Nashville’s suburbs, where you’ll find some of the best places to live in Tennessee and some lakefront property.

Why Moving to Nashville Might Be Perfect for You

Living in Nashville, Tennessee, promises a life enriched by a distinct culture and exciting opportunities. Sure, no city comes without its challenges—hello, traffic and weather risks—but Nashville’s charm easily outweighs them. 

Whether you’re chasing live music, exploring outdoor trails, or tapping into career growth, there’s something for everyone in Music City.

Interested in calling Nashville home? Start your move today—this unique and growing city is waiting to welcome you!

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Preston Guyton