Also known as Music City, Nashville is a booming metropolitan full of work opportunities, live music, and nature galore. Nestled in Middle Tennessee, the location makes it easily accessible, and the cost of living is more affordable than other large cities. These attractive qualities are a huge reason for the rapid expansion and ever-increasing population of Nashville.
Nashville is loved by visitors and residents alike for the small-town feel with big-city perks. Even with so many new people moving here, it still maintains its southern charm. You’ll find an abundance of local spots with honky-tonk music at full-volume, cowboy boots on-trend, and establishments that have been around for decades.
The food scene in Music City has become a force to be reckoned with; Local restaurants like Henrietta Red, Folk, Rolf & Daughters, and Husk consistently receive national acclaim. The restaurant scene is just one of the many upsides of living here. Another perk is the diversity of housing options. Whether you choose a luxury apartment with skyline views in Downtown or a Tudor with a yard in East Nashville, you’ll enjoy beautiful weather and an amazing community.
While there is no shortage of things to do in the city, the outskirts of Nashville shine on the weekends, with stunning public parks, miles of hiking trails, and waterfalls aplenty. Middle Tennessee is known for its beautiful waterfalls, and the hikes to reach them are well worth it. Pack an overnight bag, and map out a few Southern diners (Loveless Cafe, please!) for a memorable and effortless weekend getaway.
Vibe
Nashville is energetic, historical, and bubbling with year-round crowds. Locals and tourists alike indulge in the world-famous music scene— exploring museums based on Nashville’s music evolution and enjoying live concerts.
From music fanatics and history buffs to refined foodies and outdoor aficionados, all walks of life can find a home in this lively city. The buildings in this area are just as diverse as the people: you’ll find luxury highrises, single-family homes, retail storefronts, and nightlife venues sharing the same neighborhood.
To learn more and find out which neighborhood is best for you, check out our Ultimate Nashville Neighborhood Guide.
Favorite Spots
A trip to Nashville isn’t complete without a few of the typical tourist attractions: a visit to the acclaimed Country Music Hall of Fame, the botanical gardens at Cheekwood, and a proper Southern meal at Arnold’s Country Kitchen.
When exploring this city, be sure to leave your diet plans behind and grab your best pair of dancing shoes. Outdoor music venues are practically endless in Nashville. ‘Live on the Green’ is a free outdoor concert series at Public Square Park in Downtown. Of course, this Summer event isn’t the only chance to catch live music from Nashville’s best acts.
You can just as easily see Margo Price perform at Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge on a random Tuesday night, or catch Paul Cauthen live at The Basement East. For a real honky-tonk experience, be sure to stop by Robert’s Western World for a ‘Recession Special’: a fried bologna sandwich, PBR, and a moon pie.
Things to Know
If you’re considering relocating to Nashville, there are a few things to know. The summers are long, hot, and humid, and winters are mild, but typically still get some snow. Southern hospitality is real; a smile, some patience, and remembering to slow down a bit can help you adjust to the lifestyle.
Owning a car is helpful, and occasionally essential, depending on which neighborhood you live in. Most residents own vehicles— but many neighborhoods (like downtown and midtown) are walkable, and rideshares are affordable.
