The Cost of Living Diaries: Rutherford County, TN
Get the inside scoop on what it's like to live in this vibrant Middle Tennessee county.
Welcome to The Cost of Living Diaries. How much does it cost to live in Rutherford County, TN? What’s it like to live and work here? Keep reading because we asked a local resident to tell us all about the cost of living in Rutherford County.
Located in Middle Tennessee, Rutherford County is a region stocked with … well, everything! Great jobs run the gamut, meaning it’s easy for folks to land that perfect career, but on top of that, the area boasts a low cost of living, distinct local shops and restaurants, excellent outdoor recreation options and year-round community events.
Brad Allen
Brad Allen, 46, was born and raised in Rutherford County. He is the co-owner and CEO of Venture Express Inc., a trucking company headquartered in Murfreesboro.
What has kept you in Rutherford County?
For me, really the community here. It had everything that I was looking for. As a younger person, the high schools were great, and then I went to Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU). After graduating, I met my wife and we started a family here. The community had everything that we wanted to raise a family in.
How would you describe the county and its residents?
It’s friendly. Owning a larger company here, we’ve had to bring in some talent from outside the county, outside the state. And I tell them all – it’s almost like a competition of how nice people can be to you. Everybody is so warm and welcoming, and they open their arms to you.
What do you love about living in Rutherford County?
The ease of doing business. The community has been great about supporting us. We love the schools here. All in all, my favorite thing is it checks all the boxes for us.
What is the cost of living like here?
It’s extremely affordable. My wife and I have a condo in The Gulch in Nashville (as well as a home in Rutherford County), but it’s amazing how much more we can get in Rutherford County than in Davidson County. Taxes are more affordable. Anything that has to do with cost of living, we see a huge benefit of being in Rutherford County.
What’s your favorite restaurant, and how much would dinner and drinks cost for two people?
Our go-to is Five Senses Restaurant & Bar in Murfreesboro. The menu, the vibe, the cocktail list – it almost has a Nashville-restaurant feel to it as far as the menu items and the options you get there, but it’s almost in a neighborhood bar or restaurant setting. It’s very localized. They have seasonal menus, and their filets are great. My wife is basically a vegetarian, and they have a lot of vegetarian options, as well. A little bit of everything, really. Dinner and drinks for two would be $75.
Get to Know Rutherford County
Want to learn more about living and working in Rutherford County, TN? Check out the latest edition of Livability Rutherford County, Tennessee.
