Honest Pros and Cons of Living in Nashville

Nashville's unique atmosphere combines the best in Southern living with a soulful vibe and youthful urban spirit. The hospitable charm and varied cultural experiences make it easy to enjoy the city’s awe-inspiring music venues, award-winning eateries, top-rated entertainment, and lush, well-maintained parks and greenspaces. Known as Music City, the influence of legendary artists is apparent throughout the city in its bars, clubs, live music complexes, and museums.

The city's growth comes from a cultural fabric of unparalleled energy and infectious enthusiasm. With a great mix of recreation, community-wide events, and exceptional educational opportunities, Nashville truly has something for everyone. If you’re thinking about living in Nashville, you’ll want to take into consideration both the pros and cons of being a resident in Tennessee’s most desirable city.

One of the greatest positives about living in Nashville is its proximity to parks, lakes, and trails that offer fantastic views and up-close-and-personal looks at Tennesse’s native flora and fauna. Whether you want to hike a trail, go birdwatching, or head out to the lake for a day on the water, there are many opportunities to experience the joys of nature in Nashville.

Water lovers take advantage of the area’s surrounding lakes. Kentucky Lake, Indian Lake, Thousand Acre Lake, and Carroll Lake are easily accessible from Nashville. If you like to fish, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find large groups of largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and yellow bass living in most of these lakes. Thrill-seekers have just as much fun, as the lakes are perfect backdrops for wave runners and jet skis.

Numerous trails around Nashville provide residents with peaceful respites outdoors. Check out the Day Loop Trail at Long Hunter State Park or the Mossy Ridge Trail Loop at Percy Warner Park. Bring your binoculars to Radnor Lake, Ganier Ridge, and the South Cove Trail to experience top-rated birdwatching. If you’d rather have the best of land and lake, head to Bryant Grove Trail, where you can enjoy hiking and kayaking.

Fine dining opportunities abound in Nashville, and the sheer quantity and eclectic mix of fare available will keep even the pickiest of foodies happy. Considered one of the greatest culinary cities in the United States, Nashville offers a vast array of selections, from typical Southern fares such as amazing barbeque and mouth-watering fried chicken to a delightful range of multicultural dishes that will keep your taste buds humming.

Experience Southern fine dining in a renovated 1843 home at The Standard, or try an out-of-this-world hand-cut steak at Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina, known for its exemplary service and delectable menu. For a more communal experience, head to The Catbird Seat for an ever-changing New American tasting menu served in an open kitchen concept.

Nashville’s Southern charm makes it easy for locals and visitors alike to engage in easy conversation. With many people looking for houses for sale in Nashville from all over the country, you will find a mix of cultures and personalities that call this highly desirable community home.

Nashville’s recent popularity doesn’t just stop at its premier music venues. The area is home to numerous top industries in popular sectors such as healthcare, sales, technology, and tourism. Several universities, including Vanderbilt University, provide Nashville with plenty of career options in higher education.

 

While there are numerous pros to living in Nashville, there are also a few cons to consider if you’re seriously considering a move.

There are few sidewalks in Nashville compared to other cities. What little sidewalks the area does have are narrow or tend to end abruptly. If you’re hoping to do some exploring, Downtown Nashville offers the best walkability in the city, providing access to several renowned attractions.

Just like with its walkability, Nashville boasts few options in the way of transportation. Unless you live in the central downtown area, public transportation is scarce. Heading out to the gym, grabbing a bag of groceries, or heading to work all require a vehicle. Nashville's design makes having a car a necessity.

Due to a variety of factors, many buyers are paying more for Nashville homes for sale. The median sales price of a home in Nashville was $533,950 in April. While 2% lower than the year-over-year numbers, that is still a fairly high median price compared to the rest of the country.

Living in Nashville will cost you more than in other parts of the country. Nashville ranks in the top 1% of the most expensive cities in the United States. If you move here, plan on spending more money on housing, groceries, utilities, dining, gas, and other expenses.

If you are considering a move to Nashville, it is essential to understand the pros and cons of this iconic city. Residents enjoy an enviable music scene and an influx of fantastic fine dining options. Recreational activities can be held at every turn, from hiking and biking to boating, fishing, and jogging. It’s essential to remember, however, that Nashville boasts a higher-than-average cost of living and escalating housing costs, which may be a barrier for some.

Are you ready to experience what living in Nashville is truly all about? If so, contact the real estate experts at Premier Realty TN. Mack and Crystal specialize in Nashville luxury real estate, and both come as highly regarded professionals in the industry with years of experience under their belts. Whether you’re a first-time buyer relocating to Nashville or a seasoned buyer searching for a top-dollar lucrative property with state-of-the-art amenities, Premier Realty TN is ready to help.

For those interested in the pinnacle of high-end living, check out our ultimate guide to ultra-luxury real estate in Nashville, TN. And if you’re considering a broader move or exploring nearby areas, don’t miss our recommendations on things to do in Murfreesboro.