Columbia, TN

While only one hour from downtown Nashville, Maury County is making a name for itself. It’s lively arts scene, local festivals and numerous retail and dining options mean residents can stay entertained without ever leaving the region – plus, it’s affordable. And business is booming. Companies across the globe, such as General Motors and automotive parts manufacturer Faurecia, have set up shop in the area, and startups, like pipe manufacturer BriarWorks, have the resources they need to develop and succeed.