Tennessee is one of the most popular states in the country for people seeking a better quality of life at a lower cost. With its vibrant music scenes, scenic mountains, mild winters, and absence of a state income tax, it’s no surprise more Americans are asking: “Where are the best places to live in Tennessee?”
Whether you’re a young professional, growing family, retiree, or remote worker, this local guide will walk you through the top cities and towns across the Volunteer State each with its own personality, perks, and lifestyle appeal.
Why Move to Tennessee?
Before we dive into specific locations, here’s what draws so many people to Tennessee:
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No state income tax
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Affordable cost of living
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Mild winters and four distinct seasons
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Growing job market, especially in healthcare, tech, and logistics
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Stunning natural beauty from the Smoky Mountains to the Mississippi River
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Friendly, laid-back culture with Southern hospitality
Now let’s explore the best cities and towns to live in Tennessee.
1. Nashville – Best for Professionals & Creatives
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Population: ~715,000
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Median Home Price: $435,000
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Vibe: Energetic, growing, music-rich
Nashville, the state capital and the “Music City,” is Tennessee’s cultural and economic powerhouse. With a booming tech and healthcare sector, plenty of entertainment, and a food scene that rivals major coastal cities, it’s ideal for young professionals and creatives alike.
Pros:
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Strong job market
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World-class entertainment and dining
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Diverse neighborhoods (urban, suburban, historic)
Cons:
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Higher housing costs
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Rapid population growth = more traffic
2. Chattanooga – Best for Remote Workers & Nature Lovers
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Population: ~184,000
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Median Home Price: $310,000
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Vibe: Outdoor-centric, tech-friendly, relaxed
Nestled between mountains and the Tennessee River, Chattanooga combines small-town charm with big-city amenities. It’s known for its outdoor activities, scenic views, and being one of the first U.S. cities to offer gig-speed internet citywide making it a hotspot for remote workers.
Pros:
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Affordable housing
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Great hiking, biking, and climbing
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High-speed internet infrastructure
Cons:
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Smaller job market than Nashville or Knoxville
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Hot, humid summers
3. Knoxville – Best for Families & Students
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Population: ~194,000
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Median Home Price: $295,000
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Vibe: Family-friendly, college town, accessible
Home to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville offers a well-balanced lifestyle with a mix of education, affordability, and outdoor opportunities. It’s a popular choice for families, thanks to its good schools, strong healthcare options, and proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains.
Pros:
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Moderate cost of living
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Excellent access to nature
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Good public and private schools
Cons:
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Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
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Slower pace may not suit everyone
4. Franklin – Best for Upscale Suburban Living
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Population: ~87,000
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Median Home Price: $700,000+
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Vibe: Historic, affluent, family-focused
Located just south of Nashville, Franklin is one of the wealthiest and most charming suburbs in the state. It blends historic Southern architecture with modern development, and is often praised for its safety, schools, and quality of life.
Pros:
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Top-rated schools
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Beautiful downtown and parks
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Close to Nashville, but quieter
Cons:
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High housing prices
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Can feel suburban and less diverse
5. Memphis – Best for Music Lovers & Big-City Life on a Budget
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Population: ~628,000
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Median Home Price: $255,000
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Vibe: Soulful, affordable, historic
Memphis, on the Mississippi River, is the birthplace of blues and rock ‘n’ roll and remains a culturally rich and economically important city. It’s also one of the most affordable large cities in the U.S., offering low-cost housing and a unique local character.
Pros:
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Extremely affordable real estate
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Vibrant food and music culture
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Major employers in healthcare and shipping
Cons:
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Higher crime in certain neighborhoods
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Infrastructure and schools need improvement
6. Murfreesboro – Best for Young Families
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Population: ~165,000
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Median Home Price: $340,000
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Vibe: Suburban, family-friendly, growing fast
Murfreesboro offers a great blend of affordability, safety, and proximity to Nashville (about 40 minutes away). It’s ideal for young families and first-time homebuyers who want the perks of a city without the high prices.
Pros:
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Strong public schools
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Rapidly growing job market
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Less crowded than Nashville
Cons:
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Ongoing suburban development may affect charm
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Commute to Nashville can be congested
7. Johnson City – Best for Retirees & Healthcare Access
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Population: ~71,000
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Median Home Price: $265,000
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Vibe: Quiet, mountain views, healthcare-focused
Located in East Tennessee, Johnson City offers scenic living in the Appalachian Mountains with excellent healthcare, making it a favorite among retirees. The cost of living is low, and the pace of life is slower and more relaxed.
Pros:
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Low housing costs
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Access to quality healthcare
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Mild climate and friendly community
Cons:
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Limited entertainment and nightlife
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Fewer job opportunities for younger professionals
Honorable Mentions
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Clarksville: Fast-growing, military-friendly, close to Nashville
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Brentwood: Upscale suburb, excellent schools, high cost
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Cookeville: Affordable college town with a growing economy
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Germantown: Safe, affluent Memphis suburb with great amenities
Final Thoughts
The best place to live in Tennessee depends on your lifestyle, priorities, and stage of life. If you want energy and opportunity, cities like Nashville and Chattanooga are ideal. For families, Knoxville and Murfreesboro offer great schools and value. And if you’re looking to retire or downsize, towns like Johnson City and Franklin offer peace, safety, and quality living.
Regardless of where you land, Tennessee delivers a rare combination of affordability, natural beauty, and Southern hospitality making it one of the best states to call home.
FAQs About the Best Places to Live in Tennessee
What is the safest city in Tennessee?
Brentwood and Franklin regularly rank as some of the safest cities in the state, particularly for families. You can also check is tennessee a good place to live?
Where is the most affordable place to live in Tennessee?
Memphis and Johnson City are among the most affordable larger cities, offering low home prices and overall cost of living in tennessee.
What city has the best schools in Tennessee?
Franklin, Brentwood, and Oak Ridge have some of the highest-rated public schools in the state.
Is Nashville still a good place to move?
Yes, if you can manage the higher housing costs. Nashville offers strong job opportunities and a vibrant lifestyle.
What is the best city in Tennessee for remote workers?
Chattanooga, with its citywide gig-speed internet and affordable cost of living, is a top choice for remote professionals.
