Choosing the right city to raise a family requires careful consideration of various factors such as safety, education, job opportunities, and overall quality of life. Tennessee, known for its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and welcoming communities, offers several cities that stand out as ideal places for families. So, which are the best cities to live in Tennessee and raise a family?
Tennessee offers diverse cities and towns ideal for families looking to settle down. From the bustling streets of Nashville to the scenic views of Chattanooga, each city has its unique charm and advantages.
10 best cities to live in Tennessee
This list of best cities to live in Tennessee was compiled using data from Niche and New Home Source. Our analysis is based on various factors, including quality of life, crime rates, healthcare access, and overall community well-being. So, which are the best cities in Tennessee?
| City | Quality of Life (Index Score up to 10) |
| Chattanooga | 7.5/10 |
| Knoxville | 7.3/10 |
| Memphis | 7.1/10 |
| Nashville | 6.7/10 |
| Franklin | 6.6/10 |
| Jackson | 6.4/10 |
| Hendersonville | 6.3/10 |
| Collierville | 6.2/10 |
| Clarksville | 6.1/10 |
| Union City | 6.0/10 |
1. Chattanooga
- Area code: 423
- Demonym: Chattanoogan
- Elevation: 676 ft (206 m)
- Incorporated: 1839
Chattanooga has been acknowledged as the top location to reside in Tennessee, placing 27th nationwide in the United States. This recognition highlights its remarkable metamorphosis from being known as "the filthiest city in America" into a dynamic center with an invigorated downtown area.
The city thrives due to a robust communal spirit, beautiful natural landscapes, and a cost of living that falls beneath the national average. Key elements like high quality of life, good value, attractiveness, and favorable employment opportunities contributed significantly to securing this ranking.
2. Knoxville
- Area code: 865
- Demonym: Knoxvillian
- Founded: 1791
- Incorporated: 1815
Knoxville ranks among the best parts of Tennessee to live in. The city is praised for its affordability, with housing costs below the national average, making it a great value for residents.
Knoxville offers a vibrant community with diverse cultural and recreational activities, including proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains. Additionally, its accessibility to major highways and a youthful population influenced by the University of Tennessee further enhance its appeal as a desirable place to live.
3. Memphis
- Demonym: Memphian
- Elevation: 337 ft (103 m)
- Founded: May 22, 1819
- Incorporated: December 19, 1826
- Named for: Memphis, Egypt
Memphis is among the best areas in Tennessee to live, primarily due to its affordability and community atmosphere. Although it has a lower quality of life score than other cities, Memphis offers a cost-effective living environment, with housing costs significantly lower than the national average.
Memphis's cost of living is approximately 13% lower than the national average. For example, food prices are generally lower, with grocery costs about 8% less than the national average. The city fosters a small-town feel, which appeals to families seeking a close-knit community.
4. Nashville
- Area code: 615
- Demonym: Nashvillian
- Elevation: 554 ft (169 m)
- Founded: 1779
- Named for: Francis Nash
Among the most favored cities in Tennessee, Nashville takes a prominent position. It stands as the 50th most notable out of the leading 150 large American urban areas. The city known as Music City excelled particularly in its bustling culinary and musical landscapes along with an expanding employment sector.
In contrast to many other urban areas, Nashville experienced a decline in rankings due to its unaffordability, scoring only 6.7 out of 10 points. According to research from 2024, an individual would require an annual income of $99,757 to maintain a comfortable lifestyle in the city.
In order to buy an average-priced house in Nashville, households require a yearly pre-tax income exceeding $100,000. Nonetheless, the city presents a comparatively manageable cost of living when contrasted with other expanding urban centers.
5. Franklin
- ZIP Code(s): 37064, 37065, 37067, 37068, 37069
- Area code: 615
- Elevation: 643 ft
Franklin is the nicest city in Tennessee to live in due to its unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. Located 20 miles from Nashville, it offers a rich historical backdrop alongside a vibrant economy bolstered by major employers like Nissan and Mars Petcare.
The city boasts highly-rated schools, a low crime rate, and numerous recreational options, making it ideal for families and the safest city to live in Tennessee. Franklin's picturesque downtown, filled with Victorian architecture, hosts various cultural events and festivals.
6. Jackson
- Area code: 731
- Elevation: 410 ft
- Founded: 1821
- Named for: Andrew Jackson
Jackson, Tennessee, is considered one of the best places to live in the state due to its rich history, affordable cost of living, and vibrant community. The city features numerous cultural attractions, including museums and parks, which enhance the quality of life for residents.
Jackson offers a diverse job market with healthcare, manufacturing, and education opportunities, making it economically viable. The neighbourhoods are characterised by friendly atmospheres and strong community ties, while the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape provides ample outdoor activities.
7. Hendersonville
- Elevation: 640 m
- Area code: 828
- Incorporated: 1847
Hendersonville boasts of its strong community, excellent schools, and abundant recreational opportunities. Known as "The City by the Lake," it offers outdoor activities like fishing and boating on Old Hickory Lake.
The city has top-ranked schools, including Merrol Hyde Magnet School, and a low unemployment rate of 4.5%. Job growth is projected at 14% by 2025. Additionally, its proximity to Nashville provides residents easy access to urban amenities while maintaining a suburban feel.
8. Collierville
- Population: 51,594 (2022)
- Area code: 901
- Elevation: 381 ft
Collierville may not be the wealthiest city in Tennessee. It is among the most popular Tennessee cities. This is due to its high quality of life, safe neighbourhoods, excellent schools, and various amenities.
The town is often highlighted for its family-friendly environment and community-focused living, making it appealing to residents of all ages. Furthermore, the cost of living in Collierville is relatively moderate compared to larger urban areas, with affordable home prices averaging around $468,200.
The town's affordability and amenities make it an attractive option for families and individuals looking to balance cost and quality of life.
9. Clarksville
- Area code: 931
- Elevation: 476 ft
- Founded: 1784
Clarksville is categorised as a "New Boomtown" by Money Magazine, highlighting its rapid population growth and job opportunities. The city is experiencing significant investments from major companies.
The job market is projected to grow by 9% over the next four years, twice the national average. Fort Campbell, one of the largest military bases in the U.S., also bolsters the local economy, providing numerous job opportunities and attracting military families.
Housing in Clarksville remains relatively affordable compared to national averages. The median home price is approximately $325,000.
10. Union City
- Area code: 731
- Established: 1854
- Named for: Local railroad junction
Union City, Tennessee, is considered one of the best places to live in the state, particularly because of its relatively low cost of living.
The median home value is $135,400, significantly lower than the national median of $281,900. Also, Union City is a good place for families, with above-average public schools and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Union City offers a peaceful and quiet lifestyle at a slower pace than bigger cities. It has a sparse suburban feel.
Wrapping up
The best cities to live in Tennessee and raise a family include Chattanooga, Knoxville, Memphis, Nashville, Franklin, Jackson, Murfreesboro, Hendersonville, Collierville, Clarksville, and Union City. These cities stand out for their family-friendly environments, boasting top-rated schools and low crime rates.
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