Tennessee offers the perfect combination of rich musical heritage, gently rolling hills and lakes, and the lack of a state income tax, which still makes the state a draw for families, professionals, and retirees. Although the top cities, Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville, are usually the ones that receive the most love, it’s the Tennessee suburbs that provide something special, a bit of a mix of southern charm, good schools, safety and plenty of room for a large family to grow, all at a great price.
If you’re in the market to put down roots or you’re looking to relocate, you may find the best Tennessee suburbs offer a quality of life that’s second to none without the hustle and bustle of city life.
1. Brentwood – Upscale Living Near Nashville
A suburb just south of Nashville, Brentwood continues to rank as one of the best suburbs around. Known for its luxury homes, top-rated public schools and number of parks, Brentwood is one of the most popular destinations for families and professionals who commute to the city but want a bit of mix more peace and quiet.
Competition for homes in Brentwood is fierce with ample room to roam. Even with success, it remains rooted in a friendly, communal ambiance. Residents have access to Radnor Lake State Park and upscale shopping at Hill Center.
Highlights:
- Highly-rated Williamson County School District
- Quick access to I-65 for commuters
- Scenic greenways and outdoor recreation
2. Germantown – A Family-Friendly Gem Near Memphis
East of Memphis sits the suburb of Germantown, which is known for its safety, its great schools and its tight-knit community. With its tree-shaded streets, lovely parks and bustling local economy, Germantown is great for anyone looking for suburban peace with easy access to city amenities.
The suburb even includes a charming historic downtown area, filled with boutiques, cafes and seasonal farmers markets. Germantown is developing and building, it has it’s own mall, but then activities like the Germantown Festival which anyone can attend, bring the city together to have that “small town” feel to it.
Highlights:
- Award-winning public schools
- Low crime rates
- Beautiful neighborhoods with southern architecture
3. Franklin – Historic Charm with Modern Appeal
The Franklin has the kind of charm that only comes with history mixed with the convenience of today. This suburb 21 miles south of Nashville is steeped in Civil War history, with a walkable downtown filled with antique shops, cafes and art galleries.
In the years since, Franklin has evolved into a bustling suburban center with some of the nation’s highest-ranked schools, new residential developments, and a strong job market. And it’s one of the fastest-growing cities in Tennessee, luring young professionals and families alike.
Highlights:
- Vibrant arts and music scene
- High quality of life
- Recognized nationally for its livability
4. Farragut – Suburban Living in East Tennessee
For a picturesque view of East Tennessee, the town of Farragut, a suburb of Knoxville, may hold the key to your perfect setting. Tucked in close to the Great Smoky Mountains, it features peaceful local communities, top rated schools and plenty of outdoor fun.
Farragut is especially popular among retirees and nature lovers who desire the best of urban living and open space. Parks such as McFee Park and the Turkey Creek Greenway offer ample opportunities to exercise.
Highlights:
- Proximity to the Smoky Mountains
- Strong school systems
- Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts
5. Collierville – A Balanced Suburb East of Memphis
Collierville is another of the best suburban areas in Shelby County, this one to the southeast of Memphis. It has a good life style, with a high priority placed on family and community living. The town square is one of the loveliest in the state, featuring a variety of locally owned shops, restaurants and cultural events.
Collierville is ideal for residents who want to live in a comfortable suburban setting while preserving style and community spirit. Its city school system is one of the best in the area, and options for housing include everything from small family homes to large modern construction.
Highlights:
- Beautiful historic downtown
- Excellent school district
- Safe and clean neighborhoods
6. Mt. Juliet – A Commuter’s Dream Near Nashville
The City Between the Lakes Located just east of Nashville, Mt. Juliet, Tennessee is known as “The City Between the Lakes”. Mt. Juliet is well suited for those who work in Nashville but want a suburban lifestyle, aided by its rapid population growth and burgeoning local economy.
3: Mt. Juliet With affordable housing, top-rated schools, and easy access to I-40 and the Nashville International Airport, Mt. Juliet is one of the best suburbs in Nashville. It’s also home to shopping centers such as Providence Marketplace and pretty recreational areas such as Percy Priest Lake.
Highlights:
- Budget-friendly housing market
- Ideal for daily commuters
- Strong sense of community
7. Signal Mountain – Nature Meets Neighborhood
Those who seek mountain vistas and fresh air, all without sacrificing community perks, will find Signal Mountain, just to the northwest of Chattanooga, a hidden gem. The suburb sits atop the Cumberland Plateau and offers scenic views, hiking trails and a slower pace of life.
The local public schools here are among the best in the Chattanooga area, and its picture-perfect downtown boasts local bakeries, restaurants and community events.
Highlights:
- Panoramic mountain views
- Low crime rates
- High-performing schools
8. Spring Hill – Affordable Growth and Convenience
Spring Hill, which spans Maury and Williamson Counties, is one of the fastest-growing suburbs in Tennessee. It has a great combination of affordability, new development and family-friendly neighborhood vibes. Some 30 miles south of Nashville, it is a favorite among people in search of newer homes and a lower cost of living than neighboring Franklin or Brentwood.
Even though it expanded so quickly, Spring Hill thankfully still maintains that small town vibe community events, parks, and local businesses make it a great place to put down roots.
Highlights:
- Affordable home prices
- Family-oriented community
- Convenient commute to Nashville
Why Tennessee Suburbs Are a Smart Choice
Whether you are in search of upscale communities and great schools, or a place with a wealth of outdoor activity and an affordable cost of living, you can find it in the Tennessee suburbs. And many regions are benefiting from a strong business climate in the state, which is boosting job growth.
Whether you desire historic charm in Franklin or mountain tranquility in Signal Mountain, there’s a Tennessee suburb that matches your lifestyle and goals.
And if you’re thinking long-term investment, checking out our Best Places To Buy Land in Tennessee will help you get a sense for some of the top-growth areas to live and build equity at the same time.
Thinking About Financing? Consider VA Loans
If you’re a retired service member or on active duty, living in these exciting Tennessee suburbs could soon be a reality thanks to a VA loan in Tennessee. These loans come with perks such as zero down payments, competitive interest rates and no private mortgage insurance, making them ideal solutions for those who have served our country.
Final Thoughts
Thanks in large part to its welcoming suburbs; Tennessee continues to climb the list of desirable states to live in. Whether it’s the luxury of Brentwood you’re after, the small town prided spirit of Collierville or the scenic tranquility of Farragut, the perfect suburb is out there.
Both suburbs live in an individual lifestyle, individualize, visit areas, talk to residents. We have an array of suburbs in close proximity to Nashville with something for everyone, whether you are building a career, starting a family, or out here just living the good life in retirement.