Sources site different origins of La Vergne's name. While some say it was to honor French-born Francois Lenard Gregoire de Roulhac de LaVergne for everything he did to grow his adopted hometown, others say it's because the city turns green every spring with the plethora of trees planted throughout town.
Just southeast of Nashville, the sleepy burg of La Vergne takes its "sleepy" reputation seriously
Sources site different origins of La Vergne's name. While some say it was to honor French-born Francois Lenard Gregoire de Roulhac de LaVergne for everything he did to grow his adopted hometown, others say it's because the city turns green every spring with the plethora of trees planted throughout town.
Just southeast of Nashville, the sleepy burg of La Vergne takes its "sleepy" reputation seriously. Interstate-24 runs through the south side of town, making it an ideal spot for people to live (while saving money) and easily commute to Nashville. Sure, the town's not flashy, but price-wise it is a nice alternative (or starter spot) to Nashville-proper for any Nashville newcomers.
With a population of just over 32,000, La Vergne has a lot of renters. Settled in the mid-1700s, La Vergne survived Civil War action, deadly tornadoes in 1900 and thousands of Cherokees passed through the town in 1938 while on the Trail of Tears. Because Rutherford County is a largely-rural spot dotted with just a few towns and cities, drive just a little bit in any direction from La Vergne and you'll be in the country with plenty of room to stretch out. Perfect if you like communing with nature, not so perfect if you need to always be in the center of the action. Luckily, Nashville is just a short drive away.
Getting to La Vergne, and navigating in and around the city, is a breeze. Located in the geographic center of Tennessee, La Vergne is an ideal location if you like to travel. In fact, three-quarters of the U.S. population is within a days drive. I-24 cuts through La Vergne, and the other major interstates -- I-65 and I-40 -- are just minutes away.
Once you've reached La Vergne, finding an apartment shouldn't be too difficult. Expect to spend about a week looking at apartments and getting a feel for the area. Once you find your next perfect home, show up prepared with proof of income (you should be able to demonstrate that you make at least twice as much as the rent) and if you're moving with a pet, vet records as well.
There's a reason most residents will recommend that newcomers stay on the west side of town. Not only will it make commuting to Nashville even easier, but it's also a more established, built-up area. Try to stay west of Murfreesboro Road to get the most bang for your buck and to be closest to stores, shopping and surrounding cities. Here are a few of the best neighborhoods in La Vergne for renters.
South Side: I-24 forms the northern boundary of the southern side of town. If you're looking for the newest apartment complexes with car washing centers, parks and multiple pools, this is the section of town to check out first. You'll see lots of homes in this area as well, and you won't have to drive far to reach a grocery store or Starbucks.
Central West: Sandwiched between Murfreesboro Road and I-24, this is the heart of La Vergne. More established than its neighbor to the south, this area's housing options are more eclectic. While sprawling apartment complexes can be found, you're more likely to find a rental house or smaller privately-owned apartment building here.
Eastwood: Just to the east of Central West, this 'burb will still keep you close to major roads such as I-24 and Murfreesboro Road. Don't expect to find any apartments here, though. It's strictly townhomes and rental homes.
Acclimating to a new town is never easy. Here are a few tips to make your transition to living in La Vergne, and Middle Tennessee, a little easier. First, don't be surprised when you see the town written as LaVergne or La Vergne by both residents and even in official city communications. Don't let it throw you. No one will kick you out of town for adding a space or omitting one. But, by all means, with or without a space, don't forget to capitalize the V. Make plans to attend the Old Timers' Festival in the fall. The event brings the town together with a parade, carnival rides, crafts and free concerts. Other events such as 5K runs, the Miss La Vergne Pageant and holiday parades fill the calendar.
Summers will get into the high '80s and '90s with high humidity, and winters can actually dip to the low '30s. While snow isn't plentiful, it does happen occasionally, especially in late January or early February. The comfortable year-round temperature means residents tend to spend a lot of time outdoors. Head to Percy Priest Lake on the weekends to fish, boat or hike, or stay in town and spend some quality outdoors-time at the Veterans Memorial Park. The park is a huge local draw with its in-line hockey rink, basketball and tennis courts, sports fields and walking trails.
Living in La Vergne is the best of both worlds -- you're close enough to Nashville to enjoy all the metropolis has to offer, but you're in a small, tight-knit community. Enjoy getting to know your new community and: Welcome!
