Is Nashville, TN a Great Place to Live?: Your Guide to Moving to Music City
Thinking of moving to Nashville, Tennessee? Known for its thriving music scene, affordable cost of living, and unique neighborhoods, Nashville has plenty to offer those looking to relocate. Here, we'll dive into the key aspects of Nashville life, covering the cost of living, job market, lifestyle, and top reasons to make Nashville your new home.
Why Consider Moving to Nashville?
Nashville, TN, has emerged as a top destination for people seeking a vibrant lifestyle paired with southern charm. Here are three compelling reasons why Nashville is an ideal place to call home:
- Affordable Cost of Living: Compared to many major cities, Nashville offers a relatively affordable cost of living, attracting families, young professionals, and retirees. While property values have risen, Nashville’s real estate market remains competitive. Plus, with no state income tax, residents can keep more of their earnings, which offsets the higher sales tax rate of 9.55%. Property taxes are also lower than the national average, adding to Nashville’s affordability appeal.
- Strong Job Market: Nashville’s job market is booming, with a wide range of industries attracting top talent. Major sectors include healthcare, music, and tourism, along with a growing tech scene. The Nashville area has a 3.4% unemployment rate—below the national average—making it an attractive option for job seekers across fields. High demand for healthcare professionals, tech experts, and hospitality workers keeps opportunities abundant.
- Music, Food, & Culture: Known as Music City, Nashville is home to a world-renowned live music scene with famous venues like the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium. Residents and visitors alike enjoy a culinary landscape that includes Nashville’s hot chicken, farm-to-table dining, and Southern BBQ. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore scenic hiking trails, beautiful parks, and the Cumberland River. From cultural events to live music festivals and food fairs, Nashville provides endless entertainment.
Cost of Living: Quality Meets Affordability
The cost of living in Nashville is one of the biggest draws. While home prices have climbed in recent years, overall affordability remains high compared to cities like Los Angeles, New York, or Austin. Property taxes are favorable, with a median annual bill of $1,317, making Nashville’s real estate market attractive for first-time homebuyers and investors.
Nashville also offers unique tax benefits: the absence of state income tax allows residents to save more, though Tennessee’s sales tax is high. Balancing out with low overall taxes and a growing economy, Nashville provides great value for its residents.
Job Market: Opportunities Across Industries
With an unemployment rate lower than the national average, Nashville’s job market continues to attract professionals from all over. Major employers include HCA Healthcare, Amazon, Nissan Americas, Vanderbilt University and Medical Center, Ascension Saint Thomas, Community Health Systems, Asurion, and Bridgestone America.
High-growth industries include healthcare, tourism, music, and technology, each contributing to Nashville’s economic diversity.
Whether you’re in healthcare, tech, or creative industries, Nashville offers an environment that’s supportive of innovation and career growth. In addition to employment opportunities, the city’s central location makes it accessible for business and personal travel.
Things to Do in Nashville
If you're considering relocating to Nashville, you'll find the city offers a diverse range of activities, catering to various interests:
- Outdoor Adventures: The city is close to beautiful outdoor spaces like Radnor Lake, Percy Warner Park, and Shelby Bottoms Greenway.
- Live Music: Known as the heart of country music, Nashville also offers venues for rock, jazz, and blues, from Broadway honky-tonks to intimate listening rooms.
- Culinary Scene**: Enjoy classic Nashville hot chicken, elevated Southern fare, and farm-to-table dining experiences.
- Art & Culture: Nashville hosts several art galleries, museums, and annual music festivals such as the CMA Fest and Americana Music Festival.
Neighborhoods: Where to Live in Nashville
From bustling urban neighborhoods to quiet suburban communities, Nashville’s housing options are diverse. **Popular neighborhoods** include:
- Downtown Nashville is ideal for those who want to be close to the city’s music and entertainment scene. With a mix of historic landmarks, modern high-rises, and cultural hotspots, this area offers an exciting urban lifestyle. Living downtown means easy access to Bridgestone Arena, the Ryman Auditorium, and Broadway’s famous honky-tonks.
- The Gulch is a trendy, walkable neighborhood known for its upscale high-rises and luxury condos. It’s packed with boutique shops, art galleries, and award-winning restaurants, attracting both young professionals and those seeking a high-end, vibrant community. The neighborhood also boasts LEED-certified buildings and urban green spaces.
- East Nashville is a bohemian area famous for its creative vibe, diverse local eateries, and vintage shops. This area offers a mix of historic and modern homes and is especially popular among artists, musicians, and young families. Shelby Park, a scenic riverside green space, adds to East Nashville's charm, making it a lively and eclectic place to live.
- Germantown is one of Nashville’s oldest neighborhoods, that blends history with modernity. Known for its Victorian-style homes and contemporary townhouses, it features a lively dining scene with farm-to-table restaurants, coffee shops, and boutique markets. Its walkability and community feel make it a desirable area close to downtown.
- 12 South is a popular neighborhood with a laid-back, family-friendly vibe. It’s packed with locally-owned shops, coffee spots, and famous restaurants. Sevier Park, a favorite with locals, adds a community-centered feel. With charming bungalows and updated homes, 12 South combines Nashville’s signature Southern charm with modern appeal.
- Green Hills with a suburban feel within reach of the city is a prime choice. Known for its top-rated schools, luxury homes, and premier shopping options like The Mall at Green Hills, this neighborhood appeals to families and those seeking a quieter, upscale area. It’s also home to the Bluebird Cafe, an iconic venue in Nashville’s music scene.
- Brentwood, located just south of Nashville, offers spacious homes, excellent schools, and abundant parks, making it popular among families and retirees. Known for its peaceful, scenic surroundings and quick access to both downtown Nashville and the suburbs, Brentwood is ideal for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle.
- Sylvan Park has a small-town feel and is known for its cozy cottages and vibrant local businesses. With several parks and greenways, it’s a top pick for outdoor lovers and families. The neighborhood is also home to various cafes, bakeries, and neighborhood favorites like McCabe Pub, creating a tight-knit community feel.
Each neighborhood offers something distinct, so there’s truly something for everyone in Nashville. Whether it's the artsy scene of East Nashville or the luxury of Green Hills, Nashville’s neighborhoods cater to diverse lifestyles and needs.
Each area offers unique amenities and atmospheres, so there’s a Nashville neighborhood for everyone.
Conclusion: Why Nashville is Right for You
Moving to Nashville brings affordability, a robust job market, and a rich culture. Whether you're drawn to the city's music heritage, dynamic food scene, or lower cost of living, **Nashville, TN** offers a welcoming community with a lively atmosphere.
Ready to make the move? At Elevate Real Estate Brokerage, we're here to help you find the perfect Nashville home. Reach out to us to start your journey to becoming a Music City resident!
