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Best Places to Live in Tennessee

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Best Places to Live in Tennessee

From booming "it" cities to small mountain towns, discover the best places to live in Tennessee.

By Livability on August 22, 2023

Known as the Volunteer State, Tennessee is nestled in the heart of the Southeast, and it’s easy to see why more than 7 million people call this scenic spot home. Stretching nearly 450 miles and home to 95 counties and three distinct regions, narrowing down the best places to live in Tennessee can be overwhelming. Fortunately, we’re here to help.

From the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains to the mighty Mississippi River, the Volunteer State is a natural beauty offering residents plenty of ways to get out and about to explore. Entertainment options are endless and music to our ears (pun intended!). The entertainment industry hits a high note from Nashville’s reputation as Music City to Elvis Pressley’s Graceland. Tennessee has a nationwide reputation as a hub of industry, including music, health care, finance, tourism and manufacturing. Couple all that with a delicious dining scene and an affordable cost of living. It’s no surprise that Tennessee is one of the fastest-growing states in the country. 

Chattanooga

Aerial view of downtown Chattanooga, TN
iStock/Kruck20
An aerial view of downtown Chattanooga, TN, overlooking the walking bridge.

Why is Chattanooga a great city to live in Tennessee?

Known as the “Scenic City” because of the surrounding mountains and valleys, Chattanooga could just as easily be called the river city due to its location on the Tennessee River and surrounding Chattanooga lakes. The famed Tennessee Aquarium is along the riverfront, and the downtown area attracts families to places such as the Creative Discovery Museum and High Point Climbing and Fitness, not to mention all kinds of great restaurants and shops. Chattanooga’s cost of living is lower than other similar-sized cities, making it an easy place to put down roots. Chattanooga is the fourth-largest city in the state and is best known for its plentiful outdoor activities like rock climbing and mountain biking. The city also has several well-known attractions that beckon visitors. Spend some time at Rock City, Ruby Falls and the Hunter Museum of American Art in the beautiful Bluff View Art District. 

What is Chattanooga best known for?

Chattanooga is often referred to as Gig City because it has been a pioneer in the fiber internet space. This well-connected city is attracting lots of startups and tech firms. Big-name companies such as BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, Volkswagen Group of America and Erlanger Health System call Chatt home. 

Read more about living in Chattanooga, TN.

Columbia

Downtown Columbia is a great place to live in Tennessee.
Journal Communications
Businesses along North Main Street, which leads to the Maury County Courthouse on the square in downtown Columbia, TN.

Why Columbia is a best city in Tennessee.

Columbia is located along the scenic Duck River, affording an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities like kayaking and mountain biking. This city of 43,000 is an affordable place to call home, where neighbors are friendly, and the living is easy. Columbia State Community College, Tennessee’s first community college, draws students from across the region. The city continues to attract new residents, helping to fuel job growth. Locals and visitors alike enjoy Columbia’s vibrant arts and live music scene. 

What historic sites is Columbia best known for?

History is around every corner in Columbia. In fact, the city and Maury County have more antebellum homes than any other county in the state. Some of those buildings can be seen around the city’s charming historic square. The city is the proud home of the James K. Polk Home & Museum, which contains artifacts and memorabilia from the 11th president and his wife, Sarah. Known as the “mule capital of the world,” Columbia has hosted an annual Mule Day event since the 1840s.

Read more about living in Columbia, TN.

Franklin

Cultural Festival at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm in Franklin, Tennessee.
Journal Communications
Pilgrimage Festival at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm in Franklin, Tennessee.

What makes Franklin a best place to live in Tennessee?

Franklin is a city on the move but with a strong sense of history. Located about 20 miles south of Nashville, Franklin has reinvented itself in recent years. Today this quaint community has a thriving downtown area that houses an array of upscale restaurants and shops. As one of the wealthiest cities in one of the wealthiest counties in the state, it’s no surprise that Franklin has a higher-than-average median household income. Education gets high marks in the city, and across Williamson County. Health care continues to grow as places such as Williamson Health expand their services and offerings. The area’s well-known Civil War history is evident in the many historic homes and statues that pepper the community. Numerous festivals, such as Dickens of a Christmas, the Main Street Festival and the Pilgrimage Music and Cultural Festival, offer music and fun rolled into one!

Is Franklin a good place for business?

The city of 85,000 is known for its many corporate headquarters — firms like Nissan Americas, Mars Petcare and several national health care companies. Shopping is also big business here. CoolSprings Galleria and The Factory at Franklin offer fun places to dine and shop.

Read more about living in Franklin, TN.

Jackson

The AMP at Jackson Walk with Colton Parker & Skyelor Anderson in Jackson, TN.
The AMP at Jackson Walk with Colton Parker & Skyelor Anderson in Jackson, TN.

Why Jackson is a top city to live in Tennessee.

Located midway between Nashville and Memphis, Jackson is a midsized city that offers the best of both worlds — a bustling urban area with small-town charm. Affordability is one of Jackson’s major calling cards, with a lower cost of living than the national average. Ford Motor Co.’s massive BlueOval City project in nearby Stanton will create thousands of new jobs in West Tennessee, which is one reason new home construction is on the rise here. In addition, the city is known as a regional hub for business and has several colleges and universities educating tomorrow’s leaders.

What is Jackson’s music scene like?

In addition to its reputation as the birthplace of rockabilly music, Jackson was the site of the first Hard Rock Cafe in America, launched by Jackson native Issac Tigrett. An outdoor amphitheater (think free summer concerts!) draws local and regional artists, and a wide range of music can be heard in the city’s many clubs. The Legends of Tennessee Music Museum traces the history of West Tennessee music.

Read more about living in Jackson, TN.

Johnson City

Deserted streets of Johnson City, Tennessee stock photo
iStock/Dee
A look at the downtown streets in Johnson City, Tennessee

Why Johnson City is a top city to live in Tennessee.

Situated near the Blue Ridge Mountains in Northeast Tennessee, Johnson City is a college town, home to East Tennessee State University with an enrollment of approximately 15,000 students. The school is also one of the largest employers in the city, along with Ballard Health and Johnson City Medical Center. Johnson City offers affordable housing and is a great place to raise a family or retire. The Tri-Cities Airport is only 15 minutes away, making traveling to and from a breeze.

What outdoor activities does Johnson City offer?

Because of its location near both the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian Trail, Johnson City offers easy access to waterfalls, trails, Class IV rapids and miles of lakes, rivers and streams for fishing, boating and kayaking. The Tweetsie Trail, a 10-mile walking and biking trail, connects Johnson City to Elizabethton. And just 10 minutes from downtown, outdoor enthusiasts will find the 40-acre Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park and Buffalo Mountain Park, a 725-acre natural resource area perfect for spending time outdoors.

Read more about living in Johnson City, TN.

Knoxville

City skyline at World's fair Park in Knoxville, TN.
iStock/SeanPavonePhoto
City skyline at World’s fair Park in Knoxville, TN.

Why Knoxville is a great city to live in Tennessee.

A college town if there ever was one, Knoxville is home to the University of Tennessee — otherwise known as Rocky Top — with more than 35,000 students that bring a youthful vibe to the city. Knoxville, one of Livability’s Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2023, has a robust economy and an entrepreneurial spirit, evident in the wealth of creative businesses and innovators who reside here. Nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Knoxville offers a lifestyle that combines outdoor activities with the arts and a delicious dining scene. Some large corporations are headquartered here, including the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), Regal Cinemas and Pilot Flying J. Knoxville, the third-largest city in Tennessee, was the site of the World’s Fair in 1982 and the distinctive Sunsphere, a 266-foot-high steel structure, still towers over World’s Fair Park and the many events that take place there.

What is Knoxville best known for?

The University of Tennessee and its ubiquitous orange and white colors dominate this city, which can be seen in all its glory on game day at the 102,455-seat Neyland Stadium, where the Volunteers play ball. Restaurants and shops along Cumberland Avenue, at Market Square and on Gay Street downtown are also geared to the school’s many students. 

Read more about living in Knoxville, TN.

Lynchburg

ynchburg Hardware and General Store, Jack Daniel's and Barrel shop in the traditional commercial block close to the Jack Daniels Distillery.
iStock/PaulMcKinnon
ynchburg Hardware and General Store, Jack Daniel’s and Barrel shop in the traditional commercial block close to the Jack Daniels Distillery.

Lynchburg is a best city in Tennessee.

Lynchburg’s population is small (about 6,500), but its name is known worldwide. That’s because this quaint town, approximately 75 miles south of Nashville, is the home of the Jack Daniel Distillery, making some of the best Tennessee whiskey around (and is unexpectedly located in a dry county!). Lynchburg is known as one of the safest small towns in the state and is a very affordable place to live.

What tourist attractions does Lynchburg have?

The distillery, of course, is the main draw, and tours are offered daily except on major holidays. But the Historic Lynchburg Square is like stepping back in time and worth a visit. There are interesting shops and restaurants in restored buildings, the 1885 historic courthouse and the Old Jail museum, built in 1893 and served as a jail until 1990. Take a peek inside Jack Daniel’s Barrel Shop, where you’ll find items handcrafted from seasoned Jack Daniel’s barrels. For a taste of Southern hospitality, take a seat at Miss Mary Bobo’s Restaurant and enjoy some fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, greens and other tasty fare. 

Read more about living in Lynchburg, TN.

Maryville

The Capitol Theatre lights up at dusk in downtown Maryville, Tennessee.
Journal Communications
The Capitol Theatre lights up at dusk in downtown Maryville, Tennessee.

What is Maryville is a best place to live in Tennessee?

Small-town Maryville offers a lot of perks for residents. It has a reasonable cost of living, a low crime rate and outstanding educational opportunities, not to mention its scenic location in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. Maryville College was founded in 1819 and ranks as one of the 50 oldest colleges in the nation. At just over 30,000 people, Maryville provides an easy way of life and offers access to big-city amenities in nearby Knoxville — just 17 miles away — meaning that Blount County residents really can have it all. Maryville boasts a charming downtown district with restaurants, bars and boutiques, as well as places to hear live music. 

What outdoor activities are available in Maryville?

Maryville’s proximity to the Smoky Mountains draws nature lovers. The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway affords opportunities for walking, biking and running, while the Smokies offer numerous hiking trails and other outdoor activities for the whole family. Athletic complexes and recreational facilities in Maryville make it easy to stay active, and the Little River is a great place to get your feet wet with boating, fishing and other water sports.

Read more about living in Maryville, TN.

Memphis

The sun sets as visitors take in the sights along Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee.
Journal Communications
Beale Street is only one of many reasons Memphis is one of the best cities to live in Tennessee.

Why Memphis is a great place to live in Tennessee.

Memphis is situated along the Mississippi River, a constant for this ever-changing Tennessee city. The cost of living is relatively low for a city this size — nearly 630,000 people. The Civil Rights movement was front and center in the late 1960s, and you can trace that history at the National Civil Rights Museum and the Lorraine Hotel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. Blues, jazz and rock ‘n’ roll are always on tap along Beale Street — three blocks of clubs, restaurants and shops — and have been since the early 1900s. Neighborhoods such as Cooper-Young and Overton Square are places to shop, eat and hear live music.

Why is music so important to Memphis?

Influential music makers made the Bluff City famous — names like Elvis Presley, Al Green, Jerry Lee Lewis and Justin Timberlake. Elvis lived here for nearly 30 years, and his Graceland house is known as the most famous home in America after the White House. Some of the country’s most beloved music came out of Memphis at places like Sun Studio and Satellite Records, and the music industry continues to have a positive economic impact for the city.

Read more about living in Memphis, TN

Murfreesboro

The Rutherford County Historic Courthouse lights up on the Square at dusk in downtown Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
Journal Communications
The Rutherford County Historic Courthouse lights up on the Square at dusk in downtown Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

Why Murfreesboro is among the best cities to live in Tennessee.

Murfreesboro, located just 45 minutes south of Nashville, is a great place for both families and young professionals. The city of 150,000 has a vibrant downtown area with all kinds of restaurants, breweries and shops. In addition, this Middle Tennessee city is known for its Civil War history, with Stones River National Battlefield and Cemetery located here. Sports and outdoor activities take center stage, with soccer and golf, greenways and parks drawing young and old alike outdoors. Besides Middle Tennessee State University, the city is home to big companies such as NHC, Guaranty Trust and Kasai North America. 

How is Murfreesboro’s education system?

Middle Tennessee State University, with more than 20,000 students — the largest undergraduate population in the state — brings excitement to the city with its many sports and cultural offerings. Go Blue Raiders! The Rutherford County school system consistently ranks among the best school districts in the state and continues to grow, providing state-of-the-art facilities and experiences for students. Professional and technical education opportunities are also available in Murfreesboro.

Read more about living in Murfreesboro, TN.

Nashville

The Nashville skyline can be seen from the pedestrian bridge in downtown Nashville, Tennessee.
Journal Communications
The Nashville skyline can be seen from the pedestrian bridge in downtown Nashville, Tennessee.

Why Nashville is a great city to live in Tennessee.

Nashville, otherwise known as Music City for its many recording studios, songwriters and musicians that work and live here, is also the state capital and boasts thriving health care, tech and printing industries. Tourism ranks at the top, too, with the city welcoming nearly 15 million visitors each year with a whole host of first-rate attractions and events. It’s also known as the Athens of the South due to the city’s many colleges and universities, such as Vanderbilt, Belmont and Fisk. Nashville played a strategic role in the Civil Rights movement, and it is known for the invention of hot chicken, which now dots menus across the country. 

What is Nashville best known for?

Music is the city’s calling card and for a good reason. The industry adds $10 billion in economic impact to Nashville’s economy each year. The city and its diverse music scene was in the national limelight when the television show “Nashville” ran for six seasons, and the WSM Barn Dance was the precursor to the Grand Ole Opry, now known worldwide. Music plays a part in almost every event staged here, from marathons to auto racing. 

Read more about living in Nashville, TN.

Oak Ridge

A crew of rowers take to the water on Melton Lake from the Oak Ridge Rowing Association in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.
©Journal Communications
A crew of rowers take to the water on Melton Lake from the Oak Ridge Rowing Association in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

Why Oak Ridge is a best city in Tennessee.

The city of Oak Ridge made a name for itself during World War II, when it was known as the “Secret City” due to its involvement in the making of the atomic bomb. Today, Oak Ridge still plays a prominent role in the scientific world, attracting many people in those career fields. Situated about 25 miles west of downtown Knoxville, Oak Ridge offers a traditional community setting with affordable housing, award-winning schools, safe neighborhoods and excellent health care facilities. What’s more, shopping is a breeze with Jackson Square and a Main Street Project that is bringing in new stores and jobs. With 17 community parks and several greenways, it’s easy to get out and be active.

What makes Oak Ridge a center for science and research?

Ever since the Manhattan Project in 1943, Oak Ridge has attracted scientists and researchers. It continues to be a global leader, with important work being done at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, now sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy. The Manhattan Project National Historical Park, K-25 History Center, the American Museum of Science and Energy and the Oak Ridge History Museum help tell the interesting story of Oak Ridge to locals and visitors alike.

Read more about living in Oak Ridge, TN.

Springfield

The Robertson County Courthouse and historic square as seen from the air in downtown Springfield, Tennessee.
Journal Communications
The Robertson County Courthouse and historic square as seen from the air in downtown Springfield, Tennessee.

Why Springfield is among the best cities to live in Tennessee.

It could be the iconic county courthouse that looms over the downtown square or the scenic Springfield greenway, or maybe it’s just the charm and warmth of this small town that makes it a great place to live. Either way, Springfield is rooted in Southern hospitality, evident from the folks you encounter in the many shops and restaurants here. The town of 19,000, located just 30 miles from Nashville, is home to several large manufacturers, including Electrolux Home Products, Johnson Electric, Martinrea Fabco and Owens Corning, providing a stable but growing job market. Add to that safe neighborhoods and friendly folks, and you can see why living in Springfield is attractive to so many people.

Why is manufacturing so important in Springfield?

Encouraging economic growth has been at the forefront of attracting manufacturing firms to the Springfield area. The city’s industrial parks have welcomed several new manufacturers, adding to its healthy industrial base. Current infrastructure, coupled with a large regional workforce and a high quality of life, are just a few reasons why many of these companies were drawn to Springfield and Robertson County. 

Read more about living in Springfield, TN.

Thinking of Moving to Tennessee?

Finding a great place to live in Tennessee doesn’t have to be a chore. We have more resources for moving to Tennessee as well as other best places to live in the Southeast. No matter where you want to live, we can help you decide where to move and discover the best places to live in the U.S .

Other Great Places to Live Near Tennessee

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