20 Best Places to Live in Tennessee [2024]

Are you planning to rent an apartment in Tennessee this year? Moving can be stressful, but 2024 is the ideal time to make your transition smoother. Tennessee, the Volunteer State, offers a plethora of desirable places to live, ensuring you'll discover one that meets all your requirements. But where should you look first if you're considering moving to Tennessee?

We've curated a list of 20 of the best places to live in Tennessee right now based on our own internal renter data, reviews, and contributors' experiences. As you'll see, Tennesse offers a range of options from bustling downtown cities to tranquil small towns steeped in rich histories and quaint charm.

Plus, to provide you with an even deeper understanding of these Tennessee gems, we've included insights from YouTube's ViewCation.

Let's dive in and find your next destination on this rental journey!

20 Best Places to Live in Tennessee

1. Nashville

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,246
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,403
• Median Household Income: $71,328
• Median Home Value: $351,400
• Walk Score: 29
• Transit Score: 22
• Bike Score: 30
• Population: 683,622
• Cost of Living: 2% lower than the national average†

Nashville is the capital of Tennessee and the most populated city along the Cumberland River. Music City attracts young professionals, families, and students looking for opportunity, urban amenities, and a vibrant backdrop.

Although Nashville is known for its country music scene, plenty of other thriving industries exist. Healthcare, automobile, finance, publishing, technology, manufacturing, and tourism sectors offer employment around Nashville’s neighborhoods.

Despite Nashville’s rising cost of living, many say it’s still one of the nicest places to live in Tennessee with varying rents and one of the top of our list of the best cities in Tennessee. People are moving into Nashville from Memphis, Chicago, and Clarksville. However, when locals move out of Nashville, they move to Atlanta, Knoxville, and Chattanooga.

Learn more about rent prices in Nashville, TN.

2. Memphis

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $930
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,082
• Median Household Income: $48,090
• Median Home Value: $139,600
• Walk Score: 35
• Transit Score: 22
• Bike Score: 41
• Population: 621,056
• Cost of Living: 13% lower than the national average

Memphis was officially founded in 1819 and grew into one of the largest cities in the Antebellum South thanks to agriculture, cotton, and lumber. Today, Memphis is a media, art, entertainment, commerce, and education hub with a reputation for its historic blues clues, country, rock and roll, and delectable barbecue.

This diverse city attracts young professionals and families alike, with a relatively low cost of living compared to the cost of living in Tennessee. However, locals are also never far from the music scene and great food. People move into Memphis from Nashville, Jackson, and Atlanta. However, when locals move out of Memphis, they’re moving to Nashville, Atlanta, and Dallas.

Learn more about rent prices in Memphis, TN.

3. Knoxville

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,131
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,421
• Median Household Income: $48,309
• Median Home Value: $184,200
• Walk Score: 31
• Transit Score: 27
• Bike Score: 30
• Population: 195,889
• Cost of Living: 15% lower than the national average

Knoxville started as a fort along the Trans-Appalachian frontier in 1786 and became the first city in Tennessee in 1796. Today, Knoxville is known for the University of Tennessee, Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, and a growing food scene.

Knoxville regularly ranks among the best places to live in the USA, with a strong job market and potential for future growth. Major employers around the city also include retail trade, healthcare, social services, and educational services. People move into Knoxville from Nashville, Sevierville, and Morristown and move out of Knoxville to Nashville, Sevierville, and Morristown. If Knoxville seems like the place for you, read about its best neighborhoods!

Learn more about rent prices in Knoxville, TN.

4. Chattanooga

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $991
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,106
• Median Household Income: $50,437
• Median Home Value: $230,500
• Walk Score: 29
• Transit Score: 18
• Bike Score: 35
• Population: 184,086
• Cost of Living: 7% lower than the national average

Chattanooga, or “Scenic City,” sits along the Tennessee River, just a short drive to Georgia. Most of Chattanooga's population are rising professionals or Millennials looking for job opportunities or places to settle down, working in industries like healthcare, automotive, advanced manufacturing, and food and beverage production.

Chattanooga offers an urban core nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains with plenty of outdoor opportunities, such as Incline Railway scaling Lookout Mountain, the nearby Ruby Falls, and Rock City with sweeping views, which are plentiful. In addition, downtown Chattanooga is a haven for families looking to cool off in hot months. Fountains and shallow canals are chlorinated and welcoming for a good splash.

Learn more about rent prices in Chattanooga, TN.

5. Clarksville

• Median 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $968
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,240
• Median Household Income: $62,688
• Median Home Value: $213,200
• Walk Score: 29
• Transit Score: 18
• Bike Score: 35
• Population: 176,974
• Cost of Living: 10.9% lower than the national average

Clarksville, Tennessee, was founded in 1795 and incorporated in 1807. The city takes its name from a frontier fighter and Revolutionary War hero, George Rogers Clark. Clarksville is an affordable, family-friendly town where young professionals and millennials settle alongside major employers like Fort Campbell Army Post and Austin Peay State University.

While Clarksville isn't known for its urban amenities, it offers family-friendly stops throughout the city, such as McGregor Park Riverside for gathering with friends, Liberty Park and Marina for parks and waterside dining, and Roary Park for mountain biking or exploring.

Learn more about rent prices in Clarksville, TN.

6. Farragut

• Starting Rent: $2,400
• Median Household Income: $135,725
• Median House Value: $463,300
• Walk Score: 13
• Bike Score: 21
• Population: 24,817
• Cost of Living: 8.2% lower than the national average

Nestled among Tennessee's rolling hills and dotted with shimmering lakes, Farragut offers unique small-town charm. Imagine evenings spent strolling through Turkey Creek, the air abuzz with laughter and conversation, as twinkling lights cast a warm glow on shops brimming with local flavor. On weekends, the beckoning call of the Smokies whispers through the valleys, inviting you to explore sun-dappled trails and discover hidden waterfalls.

Families flourish in Farragut, nurtured by top-rated schools and a safe, supportive environment. It's a place where life unfolds seamlessly, offering the quiet pleasures of a small town alongside the endless possibilities of a thriving metropolitan hub just a stone's throw away.

7. Brentwood

• Starting Rent: $1,299
• Median Household Income: $181,576
• Median Home Value: $842,800
• Walk Score: 4
• Transit Score: —
• Bike Score: 18
• Population: 45,136
• Cost of Living: 39.4% higher than the national average

Beyond the wealth in Brentwood, Tennessee, you’ll also find The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, about three-and-a-half hours away, perfect for weekend camping trips or hiking getaways. Brentwood is a solid choice for outdoors folk, offering over 1,000 acres of green spaces and parks, such as Radnor Lake State Park.

Many also say that Brentwood is the best place to raise a family in Tennessee, as Brentwood's school system has an excellent rating. Plus, with very little crime in the area, it is one of the safest cities in Tennessee. So whether you're a young professional looking for a quiet place to call home or a family looking to put down roots, Brentwood is an excellent choice.

8. Franklin

• Median 1-Bedroom Rent: $1,681
• Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,887
• Median Household Income: $106,592
• Median Home Value: $574,000
• Walk Score: 23
• Transit Score: —
• Bike Score: 30
• Population: 86,895
• Cost of Living: 2% lower than the national average

Franklin is a fan favorite for commuters just a half-hour's drive to the heart of Nashville. You’ll find a bustling Main Street with stunning Victorian-Era architecture lining its streets, dousing this modern city with a charming vintage touch. Franklin’s population has seen significant growth in recent years, offering relatively affordable rental units that suit various preferences., including upscale studios, townhomes, units within apartment communities, condos, and single-family homes.

Although Franklin is considered a very family-friendly city, it has also attracted many young professionals. Franklin has a lot to offer prospective renters with a strong economy anchored by the healthcare field and a major automotive company.

Learn more about rent prices in Franklin, TN.

9. Germantown

• Rents start at: $995
• Median Household Income: $140,429
• Median Home Value: $402,300
• Walk Score: 16
• Transit Score: —
• Bike Score: 31
• Population: 40,816
• Cost of Living: 13% higher than the national average

The word about Germantown has gotten out, and folks flock to this trendy area as one of the best neighborhoods with old railroad roots. In the heart of Germantown, you'll find a well-preserved train depot that pays homage to the neighborhood's roots.

Today, Germantown is a bustling neighborhood with tons of foot traffic generated by many small businesses and shops lining its streets. You’ll also find restaurants that cater to just about any food preference you could imagine, from seafood to Southern cooking to Italian and more. Although the neighborhood experienced significant damage during a tornado in March 2020, the area has since bounced back stronger than ever.

10. Collierville

• Median 1-Bedroom Rent: $1,607
• Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,856
• Median Household Income: $119,461
• Median Home Value: $409,000
• Walk Score: 12
• Transit Score: —
• Bike Score: 30
• Population: 40,816
• Cost of Living: 7% higher than the national average

Collierville is not one of the major cities in Tennessee, but it is a historical gem. Nestled against Memphis’s borders, Collierville is the site of Civil War battles and a town square recognized by the National Register of Historic Places.

While small, Collierville’s location, population, and close-knit community make it feel like a great combination of all the things that make you love the city and small-town living. Unsurprisingly, homes in the neighborhood are owner-occupied, so if you can snag a rental unit in Collier, you’ll be in the minority. However, if you're moving with children, you’ll be happy to know Collierville also has plenty of single-family homes for rent.

Learn more about rent prices in Collierville, TN.

11. Oak Ridge

• Rent Starting at: $1,276
• Median Household Income: $67,152
• Median Home Value: $211,700
• Walk Score: 18
• Transit Score: —
• Bike Score: 23
• Population: 32,614
• Cost of Living: 14% lower than the national average

Oak Ridge lies about 25 miles outside of Knoxville on the Eastern side of Tennessee in Anderson County. This idyllic little town dates back to the 1940s, when the federal government funded it as part of the Manhattan Project.

Though it became its own independent city in the 1950s, you'll still find a large federal government presence, with the Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Y-12 National Security Complex serving as two of the largest employers in the area. If you're looking for a place with relatively low rent prices and one of the lowest crime rates in Tennessee, look no further than Oak Ridge.

12. Mount Juliet

• Median 1-Bedroom Rent: $1,374
• Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,660
• Median Household Income: $67,152
• Median Home Value: $211,700
• Walk Score: 18
• Transit Score: —
• Bike Score: 23
• Population: 32,614
• Cost of Living: 8.4% higher than the national average

Mount Juliet is an adorable little Nashville suburb that lies just 20 miles east of Tennessee's capital. The population of Mount Juliet has grown rapidly over the past decade, making it an excellent place for anyone who wants to start a business or raise a family.

In fact, The Beacon Center, a non-profit free-market think tank, named it one of the most business-friendly cities in the state. The town is situated between Percy Priest Lake and the Cumberland River, giving it the nickname, “The City Between Lakes.”

Learn more about rent prices in Mount Juliet, TN.

13. Spring Hill

• Rent Starting at: $1,100
• Median Household Income: $60,542
• Median Home Value: $104,880
• Walk Score: 18
• Transit Score: —
• Bike Score: 23
• Population: 55,800
• Cost of Living: 39.4% higher than the national average

Spring Hill has transformed quite a bit over the past decade, from a sleepy Maury County suburb to one of the most robust economic centers in the state. The job market growth in the state is fueled by several big name employers, including Pioneer Manufacturing, Kroger, Ryder Logistics, General Motors, and more.

The median household income is relatively higher than in most nearby cities, and residents have access to well-renowned schools, making it an exemplary spot for families.

14. Hendersonville

• Median 1-Bedroom Rent: $1,467
• Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,718
• Median Household Income: $86,954
• Median Home Value: $364,700
• Walk Score: 18
• Transit Score: —
• Bike Score: 23
• Population: 62,896
• Cost of Living: 3.3% higher than the national average

Beyond the fact that Taylor Swift went to high school at Hendersonville High School, this little Sumner County town is one of the nicest suburbs in the state. Hendersonville lies on a section of the Cumberland River known as Old Hickory Lake, giving residents of good deal of access to many types of water activities, such as fishing, swimming, jet skiing, or sunbathing.

Beyond water activities, you'll find several recreational green spaces in the area, as well as a large entertainment complex called The Streets of Indian Lake, which features more than 30 shops and restaurants.

Learn more about rent prices in Hendersonville, TN.

15. Maryville

• Starting Rent Price: $1,450
• Median Household Income: $74,610
• Median Home Value: $269,500
• Walk Score: 18
• Transit Score: —
• Bike Score: 23
• Population: 32,716
• Cost of Living: 7.6% lower than the national average

If you're looking for decent proximity to urban amenities pressed up against a vast array of mountain views, then you should look no further than Maryville. Not only does this town, which sits at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains, offer easy access to Knoxville, but it also has an incredibly low cost of living.

As of today, just above 32,000 people call Maryville home, though the town is growing with certain manufacturers driving the race forward, such as DENSO and Sanford Brands.

16. Bartlett

• Starting Rent Price: $950
• Median Household Income: $94,603
• Median Home Value: 251,700
• Walk Score: 18
• Transit Score: —
• Bike Score: 23
• Population: 56,798
• Cost of Living: 14.2% lower than the national average

Though this small Shelby County town got it start as a weigh station before turning into a full-fledged train depot for the railroad, today, it is a popular and well-maintained suburban community, attracting all kinds of residents from across the state.

In Bartlett, you'll find a relatively low cost of living, low unemployment rates, and a number of unique neighborhoods to choose from. Plus, the Bartlett Station historic district offers some of the best food and entertainment options in the area.

17. Smyrna

• Median 1-Bedroom Rent: $1,209
• Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,527
• Median Household Income: $94,603
• Median Home Value: $251,700
• Walk Score: 18
• Transit Score: —
• Bike Score: 23
• Population: 56,798
• Cost of Living: 9% lower than the national average

Smyrna sits around 25 miles southeast of Nashville, and offers a healthy economy that is significantly dependent on the manufacturing sector. In fact, one of the most prominent employers in Smyrna is Nissan North America.

This town is one of the best places to live in Tennessee, thanks to its low cost of living and easy commute into Nashville for entertainment and nightlife.

Learn more about rent prices in Smyrna, TN.

18. Johnson City

• Rent Starting at: $699
• Median Household Income: $94,603
• Median Home Value: $251,700
• Walk Score: 18
• Transit Score: —
• Bike Score: 23
• Population: 56,798
• Cost of Living: 15.4% lower than the national average

Johnson City is a small town on the eastern side of Tennessee in Washington County. The city forms the third portion of the Tri-Citiies region along with Bristol and Kingsport, and was the birthplace of the iconic soft drink, Mountain Dew.

With its relatively low cost of living and quick access to the Great Smoky Mountains, offering plenty of outdoor activities, Johnson City is a favorite among Tennessee residents. You'll also find plenty of college students here, as the city is home to The East Tennessee State University.

19. Kingsport

• Starting Rent Price: $730
• Median Household Income: $48,228
• Median Home Value: $181,600
• Walk Score: 18
• Transit Score: —
• Bike Score: 23
• Population: 56,150
• Cost of Living: 7% lower than the national average

When you enter into Sullivan County, one of the first towns you'll find Kingsport, a city continuously thriving in terms of amenities and livability. With five national parks, 15 state parks, and six lakes, it is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in the state. While you'll find plenty of jobs in the tourism sector, a few other major employees include Wellmount Health System and Eastman Chemical Company.

While it doesn't have the best crime rate compared to other Tennessee cities on this list, it has plenty of outstanding schools and very low rent averages.

20. Nolensville

• Rent Starting Price: $2,300
• Median Household Income: $158,266
• Median Home Value: $601,900
• Walk Score: 18
• Transit Score: —
• Bike Score: 23
• Population: 16,872
• Cost of Living: 5% higher than the national average

This tiny suburb in Nashville, which is home to just above 15,000 residents, is one of the best places in Tennessee to live for those seeking out a tight-knit community. Nolensville is a hotspot for families with children, and has some of the best schools in the region. It also happens to be one of the wealthiest suburbs in Nashville, with a median household income above $150,000. With a booming local economy and a family-friendly town, Nolensville has plenty to offer.

Want more? Check out this great overview of places to live in Tennessee from ViewCation:

Looking for Apartments in Tennessee?

As you can see, Tennessee is far more diverse than most people think. From large urban areas like Nashville and Memphis to small town communities like Nolensville and Oak Ridge,Tennessee has something for just about everyone. Ready to make a move to Tennessee?

Click on any of the places linked in the guide above to browse our listings by city, or sign up for Apartment List and take our quiz to find the get matched with the perfect apartment in Tennessee.

References

† All median and average rent estimates come from our internal rent estimate database unless otherwise specified. All data on population, median household income, and house price comes from the U.S. Census website. All transit score data is from walkscore.com.

FAQs

What are the Pros and Cons of Living in Tennessee?

Tennessee offers natural beauty, music and culture, and a low cost of living, with friendly residents. However, instances of extreme weather can act as a con for some perspective movers.

What are the Cheapest Places to Live in Tennessee?

Some of the most affordable neighborhoods in Tennessee include Kingsport, Clarksville, and Memphis. The median price of a two-bedroom apartment in Kingsport is $950.

What are the Best Small Towns to Live in Tennessee?

Some of the best small towns to live in Tennessee include Franklin, Cookeville, Jonesborough, Bell Buckle, and Pulaski.

What Is the Best Part about Living in Tennessee?

Tennessee's natural beauty, music and culture, friendly people, affordable cost of living, and delicious food are among the top reasons why people enjoy living in the state.