Nashville is an extremely livable city. With its local coffee shops, lively music scene, and renowned hot chicken, there are more than a few reasons people are moving to Nashville. Young people have a choice between so many neighborhoods rich in character, so which one should you choose? Here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Nashville to consider calling home.
The best Nashville neighborhoods
- East Nashville
- Germantown
- West End
- Midtown
- 12 South
- Belle Meade
- Downtown
- Wedgewood-Houston
- Music Valley
- Sylvan Park and Sylvan Heights
Selection criteria
When choosing the top neighborhoods in Nashville, we based our selections on various factors including affordability and the real estate market in Nashville. Other selection criteria included:
- Location
- Amenities and attractions
- Schools
- Transportation and commute
- Community involvement
Read on below to discover what makes each of these Nashville neighborhoods unique:
1. East Nashville
The best neighborhood for young professionals
This eclectic neighborhood is an epicenter of all things hip and cool, and it celebrates its vibrant and creative city with unique coffee houses and one-of-a-kind shops. It’s also full of lively local eateries and bars and a young, bohemian crowd.
Five Points is the heart of this neighborhood, with a wide variety of entertainment all within walking distance. Check out The Treehouse for a unique eating and drinking experience unlike any other. East Nashville is also home to the Shelby Bottoms Nature Center and Greenway, over 5 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and exploring nature. It’s along the Cumberland River, so hikers can enjoy the sights and sounds of local wildlife while making their way through the trails.
Best eats in East Nashville
Best drinks in East Nashville
2. Germantown
The best neighborhood for foodies
The Germantown area is home to some of the best eateries and coffee shops in all of Tennessee. Once a thriving community of highly skilled German immigrants, this neighborhood has ignited, both culturally and economically, over the last few years.
It’s considered one of Nashville’s hottest neighborhoods, and it’s no surprise Germantown contains some of the city’s best local restaurants within a few blocks and offers close proximity to Downtown. Residents here live in converted warehouse lofts and trendy, renovated apartments.
Germantown is also home to the Tennessee State Museum and the Bicentennial Capital Mall State Park, where you can learn about the area’s unique history or spend time outdoors.
Best eats in Germantown
Best drinks in Germantown
3. West End
The best neighborhood for students
West End may be for you if you’re looking for a lively party scene and late-night entertainment. This Nashville neighborhood attracts a lot of college students because of its closeness to Tennessee State University. Nashville’s West End is an affordable American college town tucked neatly into the Nashville city limits.
Along with Vanderbilt University, the West End is also home to karaoke bars on Music Row, a slew of gay nightclubs hosting drag shows, and Centennial Park, the city’s largest green space that features a full-scale replica of the Parthenon.
Best eats in West End
Best drinks in West End
4. Midtown
The best neighborhood for easy living
Midtown is one of the best neighborhoods in Nashville for a casual way of life. Here, you’ll find outdoor dining, boutique shops, and lush green parks, which makes it a great spot for families. Part of the West End, Midtown is sandwiched between the beating, crooning heart of Nashville (Broadway) and the upscale attitude of Green Hills.
Like the West End, Midtown is also oozing with young professionals, an area that used to be home to the city’s old railway yard. You can find ample live music venues, bars, and restaurants in the area, making it a great spot for nightly entertainment.
Best eats in Midtown
Best drinks in Midtown
5. 12 South
The best neighborhood for active families
12 South is great if you’re into around-the-clock entertainment. Whether you’re a college student looking to fill your weekends or a family that likes to get out and play, this area is home to an abundance of live music and delicious eats.
12 South is a laid-back, walkable neighborhood where you don’t necessarily need a car. It mostly comprises younger couples, families, and artists, and it’s the perfect location for those who need to be closer to Brentwood but aren’t ready for suburban life just yet. Along 12th Avenue South, you’ll find everything from vintage guitar shops to local breweries. 12 South is a bit more on the residential side but still offers the convenience of the city center just a few miles away.
Best eats in 12 South
Best drinks in 12 South
6. Belle Meade
The best neighborhood for nature-lovers
If you’re looking for a home close enough to the fun of Nashville but far enough away to enjoy outdoor recreation, Belle Meade is it. Life in Belle Meade is slower than its nearby counterparts. People spend their weekends exploring the beautiful Percy Warner Park or wine tasting at the Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery.
The Belle Meade neighborhood is one of the greenest in the state, with many of the homes boasting large, lush green yards. The Belle Meade Gallery is also a vibrant art scene with easy access to locally sourced paintings, sculptures, and handcrafted jewelry.
Best eats in Belle Meade
Best drinks in Belle Meade
7. Downtown
The best neighborhood for entertainment enthusiasts
If you want to be right smack in the middle of the action, there’s no better place to live than Downtown Nashville. This is truly the heart of Nashville and where you’ll be within walking distance to the best bars, restaurants, and nightlife. Downtown Nashville is also ideal if you don’t want to drive. The city has a great public transit system called WeGo Public Transit.
You’ll also find an abundance of culture in Downtown Nashville, with the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Johnny Cash Museum. Of course, when you need a break from the hustle and bustle of busy city life, you can enjoy the outdoors at Riverfront Park or Cumberland Park.
Best eats in Downtown Nashville
Best drinks in Downtown Nashville
8. Wedgewood-Houston
The best neighborhood for young families
Families love living in Wedgewood-Houston (WeHo). There’s an abundance of family-friendly entertainment here that’s perfect for fun days filled with exploration, including the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere and the Adventure Science Center. The homes in Wedgewood-Houston are unique, with many of them repurposed from industrial businesses. Some of the restaurants are also inside of converted warehouses or factories.
WeHo is just a few short blocks from Downtown Nashville, meaning you’re close enough to endless entertainment but far enough away for slightly cheaper rentals. Check out Fort Negley, a family-friendly destination on the National Register of Historic Places.
Best eats in Wedgewood-Houston
Best drinks in Wedgewood-Houston
9. Music Valley
The best neighborhood for musicians
Music Valley is for musicians, both aspiring and hobbyists. Music Valley attracts tourists because of its close proximity to the Nashville International Airport. It’s also home to some of the most famous music bars and performance centers. When people hear of Nashville, they often think of places like the Grand Ole Opry, country music’s biggest stage, which you’ll find in Music Valley.
Music Valley is also home to Cooter’s Museum and Store and the Willie Nelson and Friends Museum. You can enjoy unique entertainment in Music Valley, like Miss Jeanne’s Dinner Theater or the Texas Troubadour Theatre.
Despite being surrounded by dive bars and famous music centers, Music Valley also offers its residents outdoor recreation. The Two Rivers Park Greenway and dog park are perfect for growing families. Wave Country is also a nice way to spend a hot afternoon in Music Valley.
Best eats in Music Valley
Best drinks in Music Valley
10. Sylvan Park and Sylvan Heights
The best neighborhood for retirees
Sylvan Park and Sylvan Heights are geared toward working professionals and retirees who love everything that Nashville has to offer but prefer a quieter way of life. Sylvan Park is away from the busy city vibes of Downtown Nashville. Here, you’ll find locally-owned restaurants and shops and a heavy focus on families. The McCabe Golf Course and Richland Creek Greenway are popular ways to spend a weekend in Sylvan Park.
Public transportation is harder to find, so many residents rely on their own vehicles. Sylvan Park is one of the best neighborhoods in Nashville for birding enthusiasts. If you’re a birdwatcher, you’ll love the Sylvan Heights Bird Park, which is home to over 2,000 exotic birds.
Best eats in Sylvan Park and Sylvan Heights
Best drinks in Sylvan Park and Sylvan Heights
Final thoughts
Living in Nashville is a great option for young professionals looking to have access to the best neighborhoods for eating, drinking, and playing. Not sure which is the best neighborhood in Nashville for you? We recommend considering the important factors to you as a renter, including location, price point, and neighborhood amenities. You can’t go wrong with any of these Nashville neighborhoods, so plan your move and start living like a Music City local today.
Frequently asked questions
Nashville, often referred to as “Music City,” is known for its vibrant music scene, rich cultural heritage, and friendly Southern hospitality. The city offers a diverse range of entertainment options, including live music venues, historic sites, and museums. Nashville’s growing economy, job opportunities, and affordable cost of living make it an attractive destination for young professionals, families, and retirees alike.
Nashville’s job market has been steadily growing in recent years, particularly in industries like healthcare, music and entertainment, technology, and hospitality. The city is home to major healthcare organizations, music production companies, and tech startups, offering diverse employment opportunities. The presence of renowned universities and research institutions also contributes to the city’s thriving job market.
Yes, Nashville is considered a family-friendly city with numerous activities and attractions suitable for all ages. Families can enjoy visiting the Nashville Zoo, Adventure Science Center, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. The city also has excellent public and private schools, as well as family-oriented neighborhoods with parks and recreational facilities.
Nashville provides various transportation options for residents. The Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) operates bus services throughout the city, offering convenient public transportation. Additionally, Nashville’s B-cycle bike-sharing program promotes cycling as an eco-friendly mode of transport. While the city is predominantly car-dependent, efforts are underway to improve public transit and expand alternative transportation options.
The cost of living in Nashville is relatively reasonable compared to other major U.S. cities. While housing costs have increased due to the city’s growth, they remain more affordable than cities like New York or San Francisco. The overall cost of living can vary depending on the neighborhood and lifestyle choices, but Nashville generally offers a favorable cost of living for residents.
Nashville is rich in cultural attractions and landmarks. The Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium are iconic music venues known for hosting legendary performances. The Parthenon in Centennial Park is a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek structure, serving as an art museum. The Frist Art Museum, Tennessee State Museum, and Cheekwood Estate & Gardens are among the city’s cultural treasures that showcase art, history, and nature.
As the “Music City,” Nashville celebrates its music heritage through numerous festivals and events. The CMA Music Festival brings country music fans from around the world together for concerts and fan interactions. The Americana Music Festival highlights a blend of folk, country, and blues music. Visitors can also explore the Honky Tonk Highway on Lower Broadway, where live music fills the streets in various iconic venues.
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