Brentwood, Tenn., kids enjoy playing at the 40-acre Concord Park, which also includes walking and biking trails.

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

#7. Brentwood

There’s a good reason why Brentwood, TN, has the highest percentage of children per household (41 percent) of the cities on this list. Its highly rated schools, large-lot neighborhoods and small-town atmosphere create an ideal setting to raise kids. Considered one of the richest suburbs in the state, Brentwood offers many advantages to children growing up here. The biggest advantages are schools that offer low student-to-teacher ratios and well-funded academic and athletic programs. While Brentwood has a solid assortment of restaurants, parks and entertainment options, its location near Nashville and other Middle Tennessee cities puts residents in proximity to professional sports venues, legendary performance spaces and lots of activities for kids.

More than 10 parks in Brentwood offer space to take the kids for a walk, play on playgrounds or kick a soccer ball around. The city’s network of walking/biking trails covers more than 20 miles, connecting several neighborhoods to parkland and open space. The Brentwood Library features a whimsical children’s area that made our Top 10 Libraries for Children list. Both in and around Brentwood are several indoor play facilities that feature pirate ship playhouses, large inflatable slides and dress-up areas.

For mommies and daddies: A collection of cafes and grab-n-go eateries lets busy parents pick up more sophisticated and healthy meals than fast food restaurants offer.

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