When people think of Nashville, they often envision its lively downtown filled with honky-tonk bars, country music, and bustling streets. However, the true essence of living in Nashville extends beyond the city’s vibrant core. The suburbs of Nashville offer a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle while still providing easy access to the city’s entertainment, cultural attractions, and growing job market. These Nashville suburbs are spread across different parts of the metro area, each offering its own distinct character and charm.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore some of the most notable Nashville suburbs—from the historic enclaves to rapidly growing communities—highlighting key aspects such as population, average rent, and what makes each area stand out. Whether you’re searching for the perfect apartment in Nashville or are curious about the different Nashville neighborhoods, let’s discover the best parts of Nashville to call home.
1. Franklin
Known for: Historic charm, strong economy, and upscale living
Franklin, located about 20 miles south of Nashville, is one of the most desirable suburbs in the region. Known for its charming historic downtown and beautiful antebellum homes, Franklin blends history with modern living. The downtown area offers boutique shopping, restaurants, and cultural festivals, giving it a small-town feel with all the amenities of a larger city. Franklin is also home to a thriving business community, with a growing number of corporate headquarters and job opportunities.
Franklin’s housing market includes a mix of upscale homes, historic properties, and new developments, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a balance of modern luxury and Southern charm.
Population: 85,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,903
Median home sale price: $861,000
Franklin transportation scores: Walk Score 23, Bike Score 30
Apartments for rent in Franklin, TN | Houses for rent in Franklin, TN | Homes for sale in Franklin, TN
2. Brentwood
Known for: Upscale neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and proximity to Nashville
Brentwood, located just south of Nashville, is one of the most affluent suburbs in the area. Known for its large, luxury homes and highly-rated schools, Brentwood attracts professionals, executives, and those seeking a high standard of living. The suburb features spacious parks, including Crockett Park and the Deerwood Arboretum, offering outdoor recreation and stunning green spaces. Despite its quiet, residential feel, Brentwood is just a short drive from downtown Nashville, making it an ideal location for commuters.
The housing market in Brentwood is dominated by large, single-family homes on expansive lots, with plenty of upscale neighborhoods to choose from.
Population: 45,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,577
Median home sale price: $1,286,000
Brentwood transportation scores: Walk Score 4, Bike Score 18
Apartments for rent in Brentwood, TN | Houses for rent in Brentwood, TN | Homes for sale in Brentwood, TN
3. Hendersonville
Known for: Lakeside living, outdoor activities, and community atmosphere
Hendersonville, located northeast of Nashville along Old Hickory Lake, offers a picturesque lakeside lifestyle. The suburb is known for its access to water activities like boating and fishing, making it a popular destination for those who love the outdoors. In addition to its natural beauty, Hendersonville boasts a close-knit community and a variety of local events throughout the year. Its proximity to Nashville allows residents to enjoy a peaceful, suburban lifestyle while still being within reach of the city’s amenities.
Hendersonville offers a range of housing options, from lakefront homes to more affordable suburban developments, making it an appealing choice for a variety of residents.
Population: 61,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,326
Median home sale price: $502,000
Hendersonville transportation scores: Walk Score 14, Bike Score 24
Apartments for rent in Hendersonville, TN | Houses for rent in Hendersonville, TN | Homes for sale in Hendersonville, TN
4. Mount Juliet
Known for: Rapid growth, suburban lifestyle, and outdoor recreation
Mount Juliet, located east of Nashville, has become one of the fastest-growing suburbs in the region. Known for its suburban charm and excellent access to outdoor activities, including boating and hiking at nearby Percy Priest Lake, Mount Juliet offers a mix of nature and convenience. The Providence Marketplace, one of the largest shopping centers in the area, adds to the appeal with plenty of dining and retail options.
Mount Juliet’s housing market offers a range of new developments, from affordable homes to more upscale properties, making it a popular choice for a wide variety of residents seeking suburban living.
Population: 40,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,599
Median home sale price: $586,000
Mount Juliet transportation scores: Walk Score 13, Bike Score 22
Apartments for rent in Mount Juliet, TN | Houses for rent in Mount Juliet, TN | Homes for sale in Mount Juliet, TN
5. Spring Hill
Known for: Thriving job market, affordability, and new developments
Spring Hill, located south of Franklin, is a fast-growing suburb known for its affordable housing and strong sense of community. The area has experienced rapid development in recent years, attracting residents looking for suburban living with more space. Spring Hill’s close proximity to the Saturn Parkway and I-65 also makes it a convenient choice for commuters to both Nashville and Franklin. With several parks, recreational facilities, and growing job opportunities, Spring Hill offers a balanced suburban lifestyle.
The housing market in Spring Hill ranges from newly developed neighborhoods to more established communities, providing affordable options for both renters and homebuyers.
Population: 47,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,392
Median home sale price: $532,450
Spring Hill transportation scores: Walk Score 11, Bike Score 24
Apartments for rent in Spring Hill, TN | Houses for rent in Spring Hill, TN | Homes for sale in Spring Hill, TN
6. Nolensville
Known for: Small-town charm, historic feel, and new developments
Nolensville, located southeast of Nashville, offers small-town living with easy access to modern amenities. Known for its historic main street and charming rural setting, Nolensville has seen significant growth in recent years with new developments and modern housing options. The town’s quiet atmosphere and access to top-rated schools make it an attractive choice for those seeking a peaceful, suburban lifestyle.
Nolensville’s housing market includes a mix of older homes with rural charm and newer construction in master-planned communities.
Population: 13,000
Median home sale price: $1,030,000
Nolensville transportation scores: Walk Score 46, Bike Score 48
Apartments for rent in Nolensville, TN | Houses for rent in Nolensville, TN | Homes for sale in Nolensville, TN
7. Bellevue
Known for: Scenic parks, quiet neighborhoods, and growing retail options
Bellevue is a popular suburb located southwest of downtown Nashville. Known for its peaceful neighborhoods and proximity to scenic parks like Percy Warner and Edwin Warner Parks, Bellevue offers a blend of suburban tranquility with easy access to nature. The community has been expanding, with new retail developments and restaurants adding to its appeal. Bellevue is ideal for those looking for a quiet suburban lifestyle while still being close to Nashville’s urban core.
Population: 78,000 (in the general area)
Median home sale price: $457,500
Bellevue transportation scores: Walk Score 58, Bike Score 37, Transit Score 35
Apartments for rent in Bellevue, TN | Houses for rent in Bellevue, TN | Homes for sale in Bellevue, TN
8. Thompson’s Station
Known for: Rural charm, affordability, and new developments
Located just south of Franklin and Spring Hill, Thompson’s Station has maintained its rural charm despite experiencing rapid growth. With large open spaces, scenic farms, and lush greenery, Thompson’s Station provides a serene, countryside lifestyle that appeals to those seeking more space and privacy. The town is also home to several parks and trails, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Despite its rural feel, Thompson’s Station has easy access to major highways, allowing for a quick commute to Nashville and other nearby cities. The town has seen increased investment in local infrastructure, with new schools, shopping centers, and restaurants catering to the growing population.
The town offers affordable housing options, ranging from older farm-style homes to new construction in master-planned communities.
Population: 7,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,662
Median home sale price: $869,478
Thompson’s Station transportation scores: Walk Score 12, Bike Score 34
Apartments for rent in Thompson’s Station, TN | Houses for rent in Thompson’s Station, TN | Homes for sale in Thompson’s Station, TN
9. Goodlettsville
Known for: Small-town feel, historic charm, and affordability
Goodlettsville, located north of Nashville, offers a delightful blend of historic charm and suburban convenience. With its small-town feel, tree-lined streets, and a welcoming atmosphere, Goodlettsville is an ideal location for those seeking a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle. The town is rich in history, with landmarks like the Mansker’s Station Historic Site, offering glimpses into the area’s past. Goodlettsville is also known for its array of antique shops, where visitors and residents alike can find unique treasures. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the city’s well-maintained parks, including Moss-Wright Park, which offers walking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas.
The housing market in Goodlettsville is diverse, with affordable single-family homes, charming historic properties, and newer developments. The town’s affordability and proximity to Nashville make it a great option for those looking to enjoy the perks of suburban living without sacrificing access to the city.
Population: 17,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,419
Median home sale price: $537,500
Goodlettsville transportation scores: Walk Score 57, Bike Score 54
Apartments for rent in Goodlettsville, TN | Houses for rent in Goodlettsville, TN | Homes for sale in Goodlettsville, TN
Methodology: The suburbs included in this list were selected based on their overall popularity, determined by search trends and housing demand in the Nashville area. Average rent and home sale price data were sourced from Redfin and Rent.com as of October 2024. Transportation data, including Walk Scores, Bike Scores, and Transit Scores, was sourced from Walk Score.