Is Tennessee Safe to Live?

Is Tennessee a Safe Place to Live? (Crime Rates & Local Insights)

When considering a move to a new state, safety is often one of the most important factors. Tennessee is known for its rich music history, scenic beauty, and affordable living but how does it measure up in terms of public safety and crime?

In this guide, we’ll explore whether Tennessee is a safe place to live, using the latest crime statistics, regional comparisons, and local insights to help you make an informed decision.

Overview: How Safe Is Tennessee?

Tennessee has a mix of safe suburban communities and higher-crime urban pockets. The state consistently ranks in the middle or slightly higher for national crime rates but this can vary drastically depending on where you live.

Here’s what you need to know:

Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer, 2024

Important: These stats often reflect crime in select cities like Memphis and parts of Nashville. Many Tennessee towns and suburbs are very safe with low crime rates.

Crime Breakdown by Region

1. West Tennessee (e.g., Memphis, Jackson)

• Higher crime rates, especially in Memphis one of the cities with the highest violent crime rates in the country.

• Common issues: burglary, vehicle theft, assault in select neighborhoods.

• Suburbs like Germantown and Collierville are much safer alternatives.

2. Middle Tennessee (e.g., Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro)

• Mixed profile: Nashville has some crime challenges, mostly in specific urban neighborhoods.

• Surrounding cities like Franklin, Brentwood, and Nolensville are considered very safe with excellent schools and low crime.

3. East Tennessee (e.g., Knoxville, Chattanooga, Johnson City)

• Lower violent crime rates than Memphis or Nashville.

• Chattanooga has had past crime spikes but is improving, especially downtown and tourist-friendly areas.

• Cities like Maryville, Kingsport, and Johnson City are consistently rated among the safest.

Safest Cities in Tennessee (2024 Rankings)

These cities are ideal for families, retirees, and remote workers seeking a peaceful lifestyle with access to urban amenities.

Most Common Types of Crime in Tennessee

While crime rates differ by area, here are the most reported categories statewide:

• Property Crime (burglary, theft, car break-ins)

• Aggravated Assault (especially in urban nightlife areas)

• Vehicle Theft

• Drug Offenses (varies significantly by county)

• Domestic Incidents

Tip: Most crime in Tennessee is localized to specific high-risk areas. Use tools like NeighborhoodScout, SpotCrime, or local police department dashboards to get neighborhood-level insight before moving.

Is Tennessee Safe for Families?

Yes especially in suburban and rural areas. Many towns and cities offer strong community involvement, neighborhood watch programs, and low violent crime rates.

Popular family-friendly cities include:

• Franklin

• Hendersonville

• Farragut

• Kingsport

• Maryville

These areas also boast good public schools and plenty of recreational activities, which contributes to overall safety and quality of life.

Law Enforcement & Safety Programs

• Community Policing: Many departments work closely with local residents to address concerns quickly.

• Statewide Crime Prevention Grants: Ongoing efforts to invest in local safety, especially in tourist-heavy and high-growth areas.

• School Safety Programs: Most counties implement regular drills, SROs (School Resource Officers), and upgraded security systems in schools.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Tennessee more dangerous than other states?

Tennessee ranks higher in violent crime nationally, but much of this is concentrated in a few urban zip codes. Many areas are safer than the national average.

Q: Is it safe to live in Nashville or Memphis?

It depends on the neighborhood. Areas like East Nashville, Germantown (Nashville), and Midtown (Memphis) are improving but can still see crime. Suburbs are typically safer.

Q: What are the safest parts of Tennessee?

• Middle Tennessee: Franklin, Brentwood, Spring Hill

• East Tennessee: Maryville, Johnson City, Kingsport

• West Tennessee: Collierville, Arlington, Bartlett

Q: How can I check crime rates in a specific area?

Use tools like:

• CrimeMapping.com

• NeighborhoodScout

• Local city police department websites

Final Thoughts: Is Tennessee a Safe Place to Live?

Tennessee offers a wide range of experiences from the bustling nightlife of Nashville to the peaceful foothills of the Smoky Mountains. While some cities (like Memphis and urban Nashville) face ongoing crime challenges, the majority of Tennessee’s suburbs, small towns, and rural areas are safe, affordable, and family-friendly.

By doing a little research on where to live, you can enjoy all the perks of life in Tennessee without compromising on safety.