Relocation guide for Nashville Tennessee

 

Moving to Nashville, "Music City," can be an exciting adventure. Here's a relocation guide to help you navigate your move:

Understanding Nashville:

Culture:

• "Music City" Heritage:

  • Nashville's identity is firmly rooted in its music scene, particularly country music.

  • Iconic venues like the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium have shaped its musical legacy.

  • However, Nashville's musical landscape is diverse, encompassing genres like rock, pop, and blues.

• Southern Hospitality:

  • The city is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere.

  • "Southern hospitality" is a genuine aspect of Nashville's culture.

• Growing Diversity:

  • Nashville is becoming increasingly diverse, with growing communities from various backgrounds.

  • This diversity is reflected in its food, arts, and cultural events.

  • Visit Music city has information on the diverse cultures that make up Nashville. Such as the Kurdish, and Hispanic/Latin American communities.

 

• Arts and Culinary Scene:

  • Beyond music, Nashville has a thriving arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and museums.

  • The city's culinary scene is booming, offering a wide range of dining experiences, from traditional Southern cuisine to international flavors.

Growth:

• Economic Boom:

  • Nashville's economy is experiencing significant growth, driven by sectors like healthcare, technology, and tourism.

  • This growth has attracted businesses and professionals from around the world.

• Population Increase:

  • Nashville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.

  • This population growth has led to increased demand for housing, infrastructure, and services.

• Factors Driving Growth:

  • Strong job market.

  • Relatively affordable cost of living (compared to other major cities).

  • Vibrant cultural scene.

  • Quality of life.

• Challenges of Growth:

  • Increased traffic congestion.

  • Rising housing costs.

  • Balancing development with preserving the city's character.

In essence, Nashville is a city where its rich cultural heritage meets a period of rapid expansion. This combination creates a unique and exciting environment.

 

NEIGHBORHOODS

Nashville's neighborhoods offer a diverse range of lifestyles, each with its own unique character. Here's a look at some of the top neighborhoods in Nashville:

Urban Core:

• Downtown:

  • This is the heart of Nashville's entertainment district, with honky-tonks, live music venues, and a bustling nightlife.

  • It's ideal for those who want to be in the center of the action.

  • Expect a vibrant, energetic atmosphere, and a lot of tourism.

• The Gulch:

  • A trendy, urban area with upscale condos, boutiques, and restaurants.

  • It's known for its modern vibe and walkability.

  • This area is very popular with young professionals.

• Germantown:

  • A historic neighborhood with charming Victorian architecture and a thriving culinary scene.

  • It offers a mix of residential and commercial spaces.

  • This area is very popular with people who enjoy a historic feel.

Inner City Neighborhoods:

• East Nashville:

  • An eclectic and artsy neighborhood with a diverse population.

  • It's known for its independent shops, restaurants, and live music venues.

  • This is a very popular area for artist and creative types.

• 12 South:

  • A popular neighborhood with a mix of historic homes and trendy boutiques.

  • It's known for its walkability and friendly atmosphere.

  • This area has a very trendy and family friendly feel.

• Wedgewood:

  • A rapidly developing area with a growing arts scene.

  • It's known for its industrial vibe and creative energy.

 

Top Cities Outside Nashville:

• Franklin:

  • A historic gem known for its beautifully preserved downtown, Civil War history, and upscale living.

  • Excellent schools, a thriving Main Street with boutiques and restaurants, and a strong sense of community.

  • Highly desirable, with a mix of historic homes and modern developments.

• Hendersonville:

  • Nestled along Old Hickory Lake, offering abundant water activities and scenic views.

  • Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, good schools, and a rich musical history (many country music legends have called it home).

  • A blend of suburban comfort and lakefront living.

• Mount Juliet:

  • A rapidly expanding community focused on family-oriented living.

  • Offers a wide range of shopping, dining, and recreational opportunities, including proximity to Percy Priest Lake.

  • Convenient access to Nashville, making it a popular choice for commuters.

• Murfreesboro:

  • A large and diverse city with a strong economy and a rich history, particularly Civil War sites.

  • Home to Middle Tennessee State University, providing a vibrant cultural and educational environment.

  • Offers a mix of urban and suburban amenities, with a growing downtown area.

• Lebanon:

  • A historic town with a charming downtown square and a growing economy.

  • Known for its friendly atmosphere and community events.

  • Experiencing significant growth, with new residential and commercial developments.

• Gallatin:

  • Located on the shores of Old Hickory Lake, offering scenic views and recreational activities.

  • Known for its historic downtown square, parks, and community events.

  • A growing community with a mix of residential and commercial development.

• White House:

  • A smaller, rapidly growing town known for its strong community feel and family-friendly environment.

  • It has good schools, and a small town feel.

  • It is located on the Northern edge of the Nashville metropolitan area.

• Summarizing the areas:

  • For those seeking historic charm and upscale living, Franklin is a top choice.

  • Water enthusiasts will appreciate Hendersonville and Gallatin.

  • Families looking for growth and amenities will find Mount Juliet and Murfreesboro appealing.

  • Lebanon and White house are excellent options for those seeking a smaller town feel, while still being close to the amenities of Nashville.

When choosing a town, consider your lifestyle, budget, commute, and desired amenities

SCHOOLS

 

It's important to understand that "top schools" can be subjective, depending on individual needs and priorities. However, I can provide you with an overview of generally well-regarded school districts and notable schools in the counties you mentioned:

 

Key Counties and School Districts:

• Williamson County:

Williamson County, Tennessee, is widely recognized for its exceptional public school system. Here's a breakdown of what makes it stand out, along with some of the top schools:

Williamson County Schools (WCS):

• Overall Excellence:

  • WCS consistently ranks among the top school districts in Tennessee.

  • It's known for its high academic standards, strong test scores, and excellent graduation rates.

  • The district also emphasizes extracurricular activities, providing students with a well-rounded education.

• Key High Schools:

  • Ravenwood High School:

    • Frequently cited as one of the best high schools in the state.

    • Known for its strong academic programs and vibrant school spirit.

  • Brentwood High School:

    • Another highly regarded school with a strong academic reputation.

  • Franklin High School:

    • A well-established school with a long history of academic excellence.

  • Nolensville High School:

    • A rapidly growing school, with excellent reviews.

• Franklin Special School District (FSSD):

  • It is important to note that within Williamson County, is the Franklin Special School District.

  • This is a smaller district that serves the city of Franklin, and has very high ratings, for its elementary and middle schools.

  • It is important to understand that the FSSD district does not contain high schools. Those students will then attend the Williamson County high schools.

 

• Rutherford County:

Rutherford County Schools (RCS):

• RCS is a large and expanding district, offering a wide range of educational opportunities.

• It's known for its commitment to academic excellence and providing students with diverse programs.

• The district serves a growing population, so it's constantly adapting and evolving.

Notable Schools:

• High Schools:

  • Oakland High School:

    • Consistently recognized for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities.

    • Known for its diverse student body and commitment to student success.

  • Riverdale High School:

    • Another highly regarded high school in the county.

    • Offers a variety of academic and athletic programs.

  • Siegel High School:

    • A very popular and highly rated high school.

  • Blackman High School:

    • Another very popular and highly rated high school.

• Middle Schools:

  • Rutherford County has many strong middle schools, and it is best to research the schools that serve the area of any given home.

• Elementary Schools:

  • As with the middle schools, there are many excellent elementary schools, and it is best to research the schools that serve the area of any given home.

 

• Wilson County:

Wilson County, Tennessee, is known for its strong school system, and there are several excellent schools throughout the district. Here's a breakdown of what makes the school system in Wilson County notable, and some specific schools that frequently stand out:

General Strengths of Wilson County Schools:

• Strong Academic Performance:

  • The district consistently strives to meet and exceed state benchmarks.

  • Graduation rates are generally high.

• Technological Integration:

  • Wilson County has been recognized for its progressive use of instructional technology.

• Community Involvement:

  • There's a strong sense of community support for the schools.

Notable Schools:

• High Schools:

  • Mt. Juliet High School:

    • Frequently recognized for its high academic performance, including strong ACT scores and graduation rates.

    • It is often seen as a top performing high school within the district.

  • Wilson Central High School:

    • A very well regarded high school within the county.

  • Green Hill High School:

    • A newer high school that is gaining a very good reputation.

  • Lebanon High School:

    • A long standing and respected high school within the county.

• Middle Schools:

  • Mt. Juliet Middle School:

    • Known for strong academic performance.

  • West Wilson Middle School:

    • Also a very strong middle school within the county.

  • Gladeville Middle School:

    • Has received high marks from sites such as Niche.com

• Elementary Schools:

  • There are many well regarded elementary schools within the county.

  • Schools such as Stoner Creek Elementary, and Springdale Elementary have received very high marks.

 

• Sumner County:

Sumner County Schools (SCS):

• SCS is committed to providing a well-rounded education to its students.

• The district focuses on college and career readiness, offering various academic and vocational programs.

• Sumner County is a growing area, and the school system is adapting to meet the increasing demand.

Notable Schools:

• High Schools:

  • Beech Senior High School:

    • Known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities.

    • Has a very good reputation within the county.

  • Hendersonville High School:

    • Another highly regarded high school in the county.

    • Offers a variety of academic and athletic programs.

  • Station Camp High School:

    • A newer high school that is gaining a very good reputation.

  • Gallatin High School:

    • A long standing and respected high school within the county.

• Middle Schools:

  • Sumner County has a number of strong middle schools, and it is always best to research the specific school that serves the area of any given home.

• Elementary Schools:

  • As with the middle schools, there are many very good elementary schools within the county, and it is best to research the schools that serve the area of any given home.

 

• Robertson County:

  • Provides a range of educational opportunities for its students.

Schools of Note:

• Greenbrier Elementary School:

  • Consistently receives positive feedback.

  • This school is often mentioned as one of the better elementary schools in the county.

• White House Heritage High School:

  • Has information available regarding student reviews and academic performance.

  • It's a strong high school within the county.

  • Highest rated school in the county

 

• Montgomery County:

When assessing the top-rated schools in Montgomery County, TN, it's crucial to consider a combination of factors, including academic performance, student reviews, and available resources. Here's a summary of key schools and considerations:

Key Schools:

• The Middle College at Austin Peay State University:

  • This school consistently receives high ratings. It offers a unique opportunity for students to earn college credits while completing high school.

  • It is highly regarded for its academic rigor.

• Rossview High School:

  • Rossview High School is frequently mentioned as a top-performing traditional high school in the county.

  • It is known for strong academic programs.

• Montgomery Central High School:

  • This school is also achieving strong academic growth.

• It is also important to consider the elementary and middle schools that feed into these high schools, as they also play a vital part in a students education. For example Rossview Elementary and Rossview Middle school are also listed as highly rated.

 

• Davidson County:

  • Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) serves this county.

  • MNPS is a large, diverse district with schools of varying performance.

  • Notable:

    • Hume-Fogg Academic Magnet High School.

    • Martin Luther King Jr. Academic Magnet High School.

    • Also many very good private schools are located in Davidson county.

Important Considerations:

• Public vs. Private:

  • Each county has a mix of public and private schools.

  • Private schools in the Nashville area are often highly regarded.

• Online Resources:

  • Websites like Niche.com and GreatSchools.org can provide valuable information on school ratings and reviews.

 

• Individual Needs:

  • The "best" school depends on your child's individual needs and learning style.

I recommend visiting the websites of the individual school districts and schools to get the most up-to-date information as well as get on that city’s Facebook “HIP” page and see what locals say about the schools you are interested in. 

 

JOB MARKET

 

The job market in Middle Tennessee is robust and diverse, driven by a thriving economy. Here's a breakdown of key sectors and trends:  

Key Industries:

• Healthcare:

  • This is a dominant sector, with Vanderbilt University Medical Center being a major employer.  

  • There's a constant demand for healthcare professionals, including nurses, doctors, technicians, and administrative staff.

• Technology:

  • Nashville's tech scene is rapidly expanding, attracting major companies and startups.  

  • Demand is high for software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, and cloud architects.  

• Music and Entertainment:

  • While often associated with music, this sector encompasses a broader range of roles, including event planning, marketing, and hospitality.

• Logistics and Supply Chain:

  • Middle Tennessee's central location makes it a hub for logistics and distribution.  

  • Opportunities exist in warehousing, transportation, and supply chain management.  

• Manufacturing:

  • Tennessee has a growing manufacturing sector, particularly in automotive and related industries.

  • This sector offers opportunities for skilled tradespeople and engineers.  

• Education:

  • With the many excellent schools, and universities in the area, education is a strong employment sector.

 

Hospitals

Middle Tennessee is home to several highly-regarded hospitals and healthcare systems, with a significant concentration of top-ranked facilities in the Nashville area. These institutions are frequently recognized for their excellence in patient care, specialized medical services, and advanced treatment options.

Key Hospitals in the Region:

• Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) in Nashville consistently ranks as a top hospital in Tennessee and is nationally recognized in numerous adult and pediatric specialties. U.S. News & World Report has repeatedly named VUMC to its "Honor Roll" of America's Best Hospitals and ranked it the #1 hospital in Tennessee. The Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt is also a state and regional leader in pediatric care, achieving national rankings in multiple specialties and recognized by the Leapfrog Group. VUMC is noted for its comprehensive services, including cancer care, heart and vascular care, and neurosciences.

• Ascension Saint Thomas Hospitals, with multiple locations including Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital West and Midtown in Nashville, and Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford in Murfreesboro, are frequently cited for high performance. These hospitals offer a range of specialized services, with Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital West being recognized by Newsweek in its "America's Best-In-State Hospitals 2024." Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford is a key provider in its county, offering services like heart care, orthopedics, and maternity care, and has been undergoing significant expansions. Ascension Saint Thomas is also planning a new full-service hospital in Clarksville.

• TriStar Centennial Medical Center in Nashville is a large, comprehensive facility with over 650 beds, offering a wide array of medical and surgical programs. These include behavioral health, emergency services, heart and vascular care, oncology, orthopedics, and women's services. It has received a four-star rating in past analyses by The Tennessean.

• Williamson Medical Center in Franklin is consistently praised for its high-quality care and patient experience, having received a top five-star rating from The Tennessean in previous reviews. It is recognized for its women's health services, orthopedics, emergency care, and has been named one of the best OB & NICU units. Newsweek also included Williamson Medical Center in its "America's Best-In-State Hospitals 2024."

   

• TriStar Skyline Medical Center in Nashville has been recognized by Healthgrades as the #1 hospital in Tennessee for several key specialties, including neurosciences, stroke care, orthopedic surgery, and surgical care. It is also noted for its trauma, burn, and stroke treatment capabilities.

• Maury Regional Medical Center in Columbia has garnered numerous awards and accreditations, indicating a commitment to quality care. Newsweek included Maury Regional in its "America's Best-In-State Hospitals 2024."

• In Clarksville, Tennova Healthcare - Clarksville serves as a full-service hospital for the community, offering services such as stroke care and emergency services. As mentioned, Ascension Saint Thomas is also expanding its presence in Clarksville with a new hospital.

Factors in Hospital Choice:

When choosing a hospital, it's important to consider factors beyond general rankings. These can include:

• Specific medical needs: Some hospitals excel in particular specialties like cancer treatment, cardiac care, orthopedics, or neurology.
• Insurance coverage: Ensure the hospital is in-network with your health insurance plan.
• Location and accessibility: Proximity and ease of access can be crucial, especially in emergencies or for ongoing treatment.
• Physician recommendations: Your primary care physician or specialists can provide valuable insights.
• Patient safety and experience ratings: Organizations like The Leapfrog Group and CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) provide data on safety measures and patient satisfaction.

   COST OF LIVING

 

The cost of living in Middle Tennessee, particularly in the Nashville metropolitan area, is a topic of significant interest, especially given the region's rapid growth. Here's a breakdown of key factors:

General Trends:

• Nashville's Growth Impact:

  • Nashville's surge in popularity has led to increased housing costs, which is a primary driver of the overall cost of living.  

  • While Tennessee boasts no state income tax, housing expenses can offset some of that financial advantage.

• Regional Variations:

  • The cost of living differs across Middle Tennessee. Nashville and its immediate suburbs (Brentwood, Franklin) tend to be more expensive than outlying areas.

Key Expense Categories:

• Housing:

  • This is a major expense. Home prices and rental rates have risen significantly in recent years.  

  • Factors influencing housing costs include location, property size, and amenities.  

  • Suburban areas offer a range of housing options, but desirable areas can still be pricey.

• Utilities:

  • Utility costs vary depending on the season. Tennessee's climate means you'll likely have higher energy bills during summer and winter.

• Groceries:

  • Grocery costs in Middle Tennessee are generally considered to be in line with the national average. However this can fluctuate.

• Transportation:

  • Car ownership is typically necessary in Middle Tennessee. So costs related to purchasing, insuring, and maintaining a vehicle are major factors.

  • Public transport is available in Nashville, but is not as robust as in larger metropolitan areas.

• Healthcare:

  • Healthcare costs are generally comparable to national averages, but individual experiences will vary.  

 

Where to Find More Detailed Information:

 

• Cost of Living Calculators:

  • Online tools allow you to compare the cost of living in Middle Tennessee with other locations. Websites such as RentCafe have these resources.  

• Government Data:

  • The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis provides detailed economic data.  

Important Considerations:

• Lifestyle Choices: Your spending habits significantly influence your cost of living.

• Economic Conditions: Interest rates and inflation affect overall costs.  

 

I hope this helps give a good overview of the Cost of living in middle Tennessee.

 

FUN THINGS TO DO

 

Nashville is a city bursting with entertainment and activities! Here's a rundown of fun things to do, catering to various interests:

Music & Entertainment:

• Honky Tonk Highway (Broadway):

  • Experience the heart of Nashville's live music scene with countless bars featuring country, rock, and blues.

• The Grand Ole Opry:

  • Catch a legendary country music performance at this iconic venue.

• Ryman Auditorium:

  • Known as the "Mother Church of Country Music," this historic venue hosts a variety of concerts.

• Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum:

  • Immerse yourself in the history of country music.

• The Bluebird Cafe:

  • An intimate venue known for showcasing songwriters.

Arts & Culture:

• The Parthenon:

  • Visit a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon in Centennial Park.

• Frist Art Museum:

  • Explore a diverse collection of visual art exhibitions.

• Tennessee State Museum:

  • Learn about the rich history of the state of Tennessee.

• Johnny Cash Museum:

  • For fans of "The Man in Black", this museum is a must see.

 

Outdoor Activities:

• Centennial Park:

  • Relax and enjoy the green space, walking trails, and lake.

• Radnor Lake State Park:

  • Hike or bike through this beautiful natural area.

• Percy Priest Lake:

  • Enjoy boating, fishing, and other water activities.

• The greenway:

  • Nashville has many miles of greenway trails that are excellent for walking, running, and biking.

Sports:

• Tennessee Titans (NFL):

  • Cheer on the Titans at Nissan Stadium.

• Nashville Predators (NHL):

  • Experience the excitement of a Predators game at Bridgestone Arena.

• Nashville SC (MLS):

  • Enjoy a Major League Soccer game.

• Nashville Sounds (Minor League Baseball)

 

 

    

FUN THINGS TO DO FOR FAMILIES

 

• Animal Adventures:

  • The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is a top pick, with diverse animals and interactive exhibits.

• Educational Exploration:

  • The Adventure Science Center provides hands-on learning for all ages.

  • The Tennessee State Museum offers historical insights.

• Outdoor Play:

  • Centennial Park offers playgrounds, trails, and green space.

  • Radnor Lake State Park is great for hiking and nature walks.

  • Percy Priest lake is great for water activities.

• Arts & Culture (Kid-Friendly):

  • The Parthenon's impressive scale captivates children.

  • The Nashville Children's Theatre provides live preformances.

• General Fun:

  • Bowling and mini-golf are classic family activities.

  • The Nashville Public Library has many kid friendly events.

Essentially, Nashville provides a well-rounded experience for families, combining educational opportunities with plenty of opportunities for active, outdoor fun.

 

Before You Move:

 

Relocating to Nashville can be an exciting adventure, but it requires careful planning. Here are some key tips to make your move smoother:

 

• Research Neighborhoods Thoroughly:

  • Nashville is diverse. Explore different areas online and, if possible, visit before you commit.

  • Consider your lifestyle, commute, and budget when choosing a neighborhood.

  • Look into areas outside of Nashville, such as Franklin, Brentwood, and Mount Juliet.

• Secure Housing in Advance:

  • The Nashville housing market can be competitive. Start your search early and be prepared to act quickly.

  • Consider renting first to get a feel for the city before buying.

• Job Search (If Applicable):

  • If you don't have a job lined up, start your search early.

  • Network through online platforms like LinkedIn and connect with local professionals.

  • Explore Nashville's key industries: healthcare, music, tech, and tourism.

• Budget Carefully:

  • Create a detailed budget that includes moving expenses, housing costs, and living expenses.

  • Remember that the cost of living, especially housing, has increased in Nashville.

• Plan for Transportation:

  • Nashville is car-centric. If you're driving, plan your route and consider traffic patterns.

  • If you're shipping your car, arrange transportation services in advance.

  • Understand the public transit system, although it is not as extensive as in some larger cities.

• Gather Important Documents:

  • Collect essential documents like birth certificates, social security cards, and medical records.

  • If applicable, gather school records for your children.

After You Arrive:

• Get a Tennessee Driver's License and Vehicle Registration:

  • Update your driver's license and register your vehicle as soon as possible.

• Explore the City:

  • Take time to explore your new neighborhood and discover local attractions.

  • Attend local events and festivals to immerse yourself in the Nashville culture.

• Connect with Locals:

  • Join social groups, clubs, or organizations to meet new people.

  • Attend community events and get involved in local activities.

• Understand Traffic Patterns:

  • Nashville traffic can be very heavy at times. Learn the best routes, and times to travel.

• Embrace the Culture:

  • Nashville is known for its music scene, Southern hospitality, and vibrant culture.

  • Explore the live music venues, try the local cuisine, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere.

• Find Local Services:

  • Locate essential services like doctors, dentists, and grocery stores.

  • Research schools if you have children.

• Be Prepared for the Weather:

  • Nashville experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and mild winters.

  • Pack accordingly and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Key Considerations:

• Nashville is Growing: Be prepared for a city that is rapidly evolving.

• Southern Hospitality is Real: People are generally friendly and welcoming.

• Music is Everywhere: Embrace the city's musical heritage.

 

By following these tips, you can make your relocation to Nashville a successful and enjoyable experience.

And for more information about living in the Nashville area you can check out my YouTube channel HERE or you can give me a call at 615-349-7724 or even email me at 615dreamhomes@gmail.com

 

Adam Hanes

REALTOR

REMAX Choice Properties