Best Places to Live in Tennessee

Thinking about moving to Tennessee? We’ve got three words for you: music, barbecue, mountains. If that doesn’t grab your attention, how about zero income tax, four mild seasons and some of the most breathtaking views in the country?

Whether you’re relocating the whole crew, scoping out a new young-professionals scene, or looking for your dream retirement destination—we’ll help you zero in on the best places to live in the Volunteer State.

Buckle up—this could be the best move you ever make!

Tennessee can be divided into three main regions: west, middle and east. Each has its own unique geography, culture and economy—so where you choose to settle depends on what you’re looking for.

West Tennessee features rich farmland and flat delta landscapes, making it a hot spot for agriculture and shipping. East Tennessee, on the other hand, is all about mountain views and outdoor adventures—driving a booming tourism industry. And Middle Tennessee? It’s the best of both worlds, with rolling hills and a balanced mix of suburban and urban life.

Of course, each region has its trade-offs, and only you can decide which factors are most important for your next hometown. The good news? No matter where you land, Tennessee stands out for its mild weather, zero state income tax, and a cost of living that can help you stretch your dollar.

Now, every “best places” list is subjective—but we’ve got a leg up! After all, Ramsey Solutions is based right here in Tennessee, and we’ve talked to plenty of native Tennesseans to help shape this list. We hope it inspires your search and gives you a feel for what life’s really like across the state.

Best Places to Live in Middle Tennessee

When people think of Tennessee, Nashville is usually top of mind—that’s why we’re kicking things off in Middle Tennessee. Many places on our list are Nashville suburbs, offering access to the action without living downtown. But if you love the buzz of live music, pro sports, great food and job opportunities, Nashville itself might be the perfect place to plant your roots.

Nashville

Smack-dab in the middle of Tennessee, the Nashville metro includes surrounding hot spots like Mount Juliet, Lebanon, Gallatin and Smyrna—making it a hub for work, play and family life.

Day or night, the Broadway strip features nonstop bachelorette parties and live music performed by some of the best aspiring musicians in the world. And you never know when you might bump into some of the music industry’s brightest stars like Morgan Wallen, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban or the iconic Dolly Parton.

If music isn’t your thing, you can root for the Titans at Nissan Stadium or watch the Predators smash the competition at Bridgestone Arena. For a bite to eat before the game, check out Assembly Food Hall—a hip downtown hub including local and global eateries and live entertainment.

Nashville’s business-friendly climate supports industries like health care, education and tourism, with major employers like Vanderbilt University Medical Center and HCA Healthcare based there.

Population	687,7871
Median Household Income	$75,1972
Median Monthly Rent*	$1,3983
Median Home Price	$549,4504
Average Annual Rainfall	52"5

^{*Median Monthly Rent numbers refer to two-bedroom apartments unless otherwise noted.}

Franklin

For a quieter, more historic atmosphere, check out Franklin. Just outside downtown Nashville, Franklin offers a cozy, small-town feel—perfect for living out your Hallmark-movie dreams. We may be a little biased since our Ramsey Solutions headquarters are here—but seriously, this city is worth considering!

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Downtown Franklin’s Main Street District is one of the best around, with charming local boutiques, bakeries and cafes to visit with your family and friends. The Factory at Franklin adds even more variety with its weekly farmers market, artisan goods and live events.

Franklin and its neighboring suburbs form Williamson County—one of the state’s wealthiest areas.⁶ Employers like Community Health Systems and Nissan North America offer plenty of job opportunities here. On a harder-to-swallow note, this popular location has a steep price tag—but if it fits your budget, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Tennessee to call home.

Population	88,5587
Median Household Income	$115,0008
Median Monthly Rent	$1,7889
Median Home Price	$549,45010
Average Annual Rainfall	52"11

Murfreesboro

If Franklin’s home prices have you scratching your head when trying to find a house in your budget, take a look at Murfreesboro. It’s a bit farther south from all the honky-tonk happenings of Nashville, but Murfreesboro residents are usually happy about that!

The city has deep Civil War roots and was even the state’s former capital. You can visit places like Oaklands Mansion and Stones River National Battlefield—complete with replica cannons and soldier silhouettes along the trails—for a glimpse into the past.

Murfreesboro is also home to Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), which adds a youthful buzz to the area. The city’s economy thrives off education, manufacturing and retail—thanks in part to a steady mix of students, faculty and working professionals. Whether you’re a college student or a retiree, you’ll find no shortage of great places to eat and things to do in Murfreesboro.

Population	165,42312
Median Household Income	$76,24113
Median Monthly Rent	$1,33014
Median Home Price	$549,45015
Average Annual Rainfall	53"16

Clarksville

About an hour northwest of Nashville, near the Kentucky border, is another great place to live in Tennessee: Clarksville. Home to McGregor Park and the Cumberland RiverWalk, Clarksville offers plenty of outdoor spaces to explore if you enjoy spending time outside.

Clarksville has some great locations for history buffs—including Dunbar Cave, with its ancient Native American cave art, as well as the Customs House Museum and Cultural Center, one of the largest general museums in Tennessee.

Clarksville’s economy is anchored in manufacturing, education and the military thanks to its proximity to the Fort Campbell Army installation. The city is also home to Austin Peay State University, making it a solid option for families with college-bound kids. Plus, with students and visitors coming and going, you’ll enjoy a steady stream of energy and diversity.

Population	180,70517
Median Household Income	$66,78618
Median Monthly Rent	$99719
Median Home Price	$343,25020
Average Annual Rainfall	50"21

Cookeville

At the midpoint between Nashville and Knoxville, Cookeville offers some of the most scenic views and nature trails in Middle Tennessee. From biking and hiking to kayaking and waterfall hunting, outdoor enthusiasts will feel right at home in the “Hub of the Upper Cumberlands.”

Cookeville also offers a low-cost lifestyle—and even though it’s growing fast, it has still managed to hold on to its small-town, community feel. It’s also a college town—home to Tennessee Technological University, which is known for its engineering, computer science and nursing programs. Just keep in mind, the job market for highly skilled professionals is still developing in this city.

Population	35,54422
Median Household Income	$48,50123
Median Monthly Rent	$1,00024
Median Home Price	$369,90025
Average Annual Rainfall	54"26

Best Places to Live in East Tennessee

The majestic Great Smoky Mountains set the stage in East Tennessee. This region is perfect for folks who love outdoor adventure and scenic views. But don’t let the peaceful vibe fool you—East Tennessee is also home to lively college towns like Knoxville and bustling tourist spots like Sevierville and Gatlinburg.

Chattanooga

Next on our list of best cities to live in Tennessee is Chattanooga. Located in the southern part of the state, Chattanooga is known for its natural beauty and creative culture.

All you entrepreneurs and business professionals may be excited to learn that Chattanooga boasts a thriving tech scene, and job opportunities are abundant! It’s even been nicknamed Gig City thanks to its blazing fast internet speeds.

For those looking for a little adventure outside of work, Chattanooga has white water rafting on the Ocoee River, zip-lining over Lookout Mountain, and spelunking (cave exploring) in the Ruby Falls Cavern—which features the United States’ tallest underground waterfall. Plus, just six miles south of downtown Chattanooga you can experience massive rock formations, swinging bridges and a panoramic view of seven states during a self-guided tour of Rock City.

Population	187,02327
Median Household Income	$61,02828
Median Monthly Rent	$1,18629
Median Home Price	$415,75030
Average Annual Rainfall	52"31

Knoxville

Located in the heart of East Tennessee, Knoxville is another standout place to live. It’s home to the University of Tennessee (UT), where the contagious—and sometimes rowdy—team spirit will turn you into a Vols fan in no time. Nothing beats the energy at Neyland Stadium on game day as a sea of orange and white belts out “Rocky Top.”

Downtown Knoxville also has a lot to offer with the historic World’s Fair Park, which hosted one of the last successful world’s fairs in 1982. If you’re into more artsy vibes, you’ll love Old City. It features some of Knoxville’s oldest buildings, businesses and homes mixed with trendy coffee shops, boutiques and eateries.

If you prefer to be near the city without being in the city, Knoxville has many charming suburbs—including Farragut, Oak Ridge and Maryville—that offer more affordable housing with access to all Knoxville has to offer. The Oak Ridge National Laboratory is also a great place for professionals in research, engineering and science.

Population	198,17532
Median Household Income	$50,99433
Median Monthly Rent	$1,14034
Median Home Price	$450,00035
Average Annual Rainfall	50"36

Sevierville

Just a short drive from Knoxville, Sevierville puts the mountains on full display. This town is a great place to raise a family at a relatively low cost, as long as you don’t mind a little tourist traffic. The best part? Sevierville is just a short drive from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, two of the most popular tourist destinations in the state for nature lovers.

Pigeon Forge is also home to Dollywood—country singer Dolly Parton’s Appalachian-inspired theme park featuring roller coasters, award-winning shows, water rides and Dolly-inspired museums. (Oh, and did we mention that Dollywood is known for its world-famous cinnamon bread?) Translation: You’ll never run out of things to do in this area!

Because tourism is the name of the game here, you’ll find lots of job opportunities in hospitality, retail and outdoor recreation. And if you’re looking to work in or near a resort area, this spot’s got you covered!

Population	18,10537
Median Household Income	$55,10638
Median Monthly Rent	$1,70039
Median Home Price	$672,20040
Average Annual Rainfall	51"41

Best Places to Live in West Tennessee

West Tennessee has a rhythm all its own—laid-back, rooted in tradition, and full of Southern charm. It’s anchored by the mighty Mississippi River and the iconic city of Memphis, where blues music, barbecue and culture run deep. So, if you’re looking for affordability, open space and a grounded lifestyle, West Tennessee might just feel like home.

Memphis

Down in the southwest corner of Tennessee, the metro area of Memphis also makes the list. Memphis is the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll—and the place the King of Rock ’n’ Roll, Elvis Presley, eventually called home. Hundreds of thousands of visitors still tour his Graceland Mansion each year!

The iconic Beale Street downtown features three blocks of restaurants, shops and nightclubs. If sports are more your thing, you’ll love watching the NBA’s Grizzlies play at the FedExForum arena.

If you’re in the medical or distribution industries, this city is packed with opportunity. It’s home to global shipping giant FedEx, along with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and a range of logistics companies.

Heads up, though: Memphis has high crime and poverty rates in some parts of town. Suburban areas like Germantown and Collierville are great alternatives if you want a quieter, safer place to raise a family.

Population	618,65542
Median Household Income	$51,21143
Median Monthly Rent	$1,04044
Median Home Price	$345,49545
Average Annual Rainfall	50"46

Jackson

If wide-open farmland is more your style, the city of Jackson might be for you. Located in West Tennessee, this region is rich with fertile soil—and even richer in local flavor.

Jackson has a vibrant music scene and is home to the International Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame. Car lovers will also enjoy Rusty’s TV and Movie Car Museum, where you can see iconic rides from movies and TV shows such as Back to the Future and The Dukes of Hazzard.

It’s a budget-friendly place to live, and several big-name companies—like Kellanova (previously Kellogg), Stanley Black & Decker, and UGN Automotive—call Jackson home. So, whether you’re a recent grad or a retiree, this could be a great place to land.

Population	68,26247
Median Household Income	$51,55248
Median Monthly Rent	$1,04949
Median Home Price	$303,95050
Average Annual Rainfall	52"51

Is Tennessee an Affordable Place to Live?

If you’re anything like us at Ramsey, you know that before you pack a single box, you need to make sure you can actually afford to live where you’re going.

One of the best ways to do that is to research the cost of living in Tennessee, which is 10% below the national average.⁵² The biggest factor that’ll determine whether you can afford living there is the cost of housing.

To figure out your housing budget, use the 25% rule—never buy or rent a home that comes with a monthly payment that’s more than 25% of your monthly take-home pay.

If you’re getting a mortgage, that 25% limit should cover everything: principal, interest, property taxes, home insurance, private mortgage insurance (PMI) and homeowners association (HOA) fees. Use our Mortgage Calculator to enter your down payment amount and try out different home prices within your budget.

For a mortgage you can pay off fast, talk to the home loan specialists we trust at Churchill Mortgage about getting a 15-year fixed-rate conventional loan. Any other type of mortgage will drown you in interest and extra fees and keep you in debt for decades.

Ready to Move to Tennessee?

If you’re ready to make the move, don’t go it alone. We’ve made it easy to find real estate agents we trust right here in Tennessee.

Our RamseyTrusted^® agents have a track record of serving with excellence—and they’ve earned that title by putting people first, not commissions. They’ll walk you through the home-buying process, help you stay on budget, and give you the confidence to move forward without regrets.

Find a Tennessee real estate agent we trust!