Explore the Best Suburbs in Nashville, TN

If you’re searching for some of the best suburbs in Nashville, TN, you’re not alone. The demand in this dynamic city for suburban living that balances charm, convenience, and community continues to rise. From lakefront towns with room to breathe to historic cities full of Southern character, Nashville has no shortage of places to plant roots. 

With so many options, how do you know which suburb is right for you? Whether you’re drawn to quality schools, amenity-packed neighborhoods, or easy commutes, this guide breaks down the top suburbs in and around Nashville to help you find your perfect fit.

Summary:

• Best Suburbs in Nashville, TN

• Which Nashville Suburb Is Right for You?

• New Construction Homes in Nashville, TN

• Nashville Best Suburbs Conclusion

Best Suburbs in Nashville, TN

The best suburbs of Nashville, TN, offer an ideal mix of space, convenience, and community. These standout neighborhoods feature access to everyday essentials, quality schools, and a lifestyle that feels both grounded and exciting.

Franklin

Franklin offers that storybook Tennessee lifestyle where charming brick sidewalks wind past local boutiques, Saturday farmers’ markets become part of your routine, and live music floats out of restaurants on a weeknight. Located just 21 miles south of Nashville, this historic town consistently ranks among the best suburbs of Nashville, thanks to its small-town feel, top-rated schools (per GreatSchools.org, as of October 2025), and welcoming neighborhoods that feel as warm as they look.

Downtown Franklin is the heart of the city, and it’s not just for tourists. Locals love grabbing a cappuccino from Frothy Monkey before strolling down Main Street to browse White's Mercantile or pop into Landmark Booksellers. Date nights might mean cocktails at Gray’s on Main or dinner at 55 South, with weekends spent biking the trails at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm or attending community events like Pumpkinfest or the Pilgrimage Music Festival.

Franklin also features easy access to quality schools, thanks to its location within the Williamson County School District. And while the downtown area is rich in history, along with numerous shopping, dining, and entertainment options, newer developments also offer activities like swim clubs, all of which are ideal for potential homeowners who appreciate being conveniently close to essential amenities and recreation. Whether you’re upgrading from a starter home or relocating for a better lifestyle, Franklin’s blend of character, comfort, and quality of life makes it one of the best suburbs around Nashville.

Pros

• Accessible dining and year-round events on historic Main Street

• Located in the Williamson County School District

• Parks, trails, and green spaces for active outdoor lifestyles

• Some communities with resort-style living

• Great mix of local charm and modern convenience

Cons

• Higher home prices than most other Nashville suburbs, with limited inventory at times

• Heavier traffic, especially near Cool Springs

• More construction and congestion due to growth

• Fewer budget-friendly rentals for those not ready to buy

Brentwood

Brentwood is inviting, peaceful, and pretty much everything a homebuyer could want from one of the best suburbs of Nashville to live in. Part of Williamson County and roughly 10 miles from downtown, Brentwood is known for its expansive estates, highly rated schools (GreatSchools.org, October 2025), and beautiful surroundings. The town offers a slower, more refined pace without feeling too far removed, perfect for those who want a little more breathing room without sacrificing access to the city.

Locals often spend their mornings jogging through the scenic trails at Marcella Vivrette Smith Park or walking the dog around Crockett Park, one of the largest and most well-kept green spaces in the area. Grocery runs might include a stop at Fresh Market or Whole Foods, and dinner out can range from sushi at Wild Ginger to wood-fired pizza at Amerigo. With Brentwood High School and Ravenwood High School both consistently ranked among the best in Tennessee, education is a major draw for those planting long-term roots here.

The vibe in Brentwood is decidedly suburban, with manicured lawns, wide sidewalks, and a strong sense of neighborhood pride. Higher-end communities cater to luxury buyers, while new construction homes are available for those looking to design their dream space from the ground up. Brentwood makes sense for anyone seeking peace, privacy, and a dash of prestige while still enjoying proximity to the buzz of Nashville.

Pros

• Top-rated public schools and access to private academies

• Expansive parks and greenways for outdoor recreation

• Proximity to Cool Springs and Downtown Nashville

• Excellent grocery, dining, and wellness options

• Quieter neighborhoods

Cons

• Higher housing and living costs

• Limited nightlife and entertainment options within city limits

• Older homes, potentially requiring significant updates

• Traffic congestion along Franklin Road and Old Hickory Boulevard

• May feel too traditional or quiet for some homebuyers

East Nashville

If you're seeking a community with character, East Nashville might be your perfect match. Known for its creative flair and strong sense of identity, this neighborhood-suburb hybrid appeals to anyone who loves a pedestrian, eclectic vibe that’s still just five miles from downtown. It’s one of the best suburbs near Nashville, TN, for those who want substance, style, and a diverse community in their everyday life.

You’ll find residents out for evening strolls in Lockeland Springs, professionals working remotely from Barista Parlor, and weekend brunchers lining up at Butcher & Bee or Sky Blue Café. The neighborhood is dotted with vintage bungalows, modern infill homes, and everything in between, plus parks like Shelby Bottoms that offer biking trails and wide-open green space right along the Cumberland River. The local food and music scene is as good as it gets, from Rosepepper Cantina’s neon signs to impromptu front-porch concerts and community art walks.

East Nashville is one of those places where no two blocks feel exactly the same, but the community ties run deep. It's ideal for homebuyers who like being close to the city but crave a front-porch kind of life, where neighborhood events are common and creativity thrives. It’s not the quietest or most buttoned-up suburb, but that’s also kind of the point.

Pros

• Pedestrian-friendly with a thriving arts, food, and music culture

• Variety of home styles, from vintage to ultra-modern

• Easy access to downtown via local roads

• Strong sense of community and individuality

• Gorgeous parks and greenways throughout the area

Cons

• Varying school ratings by zone

• Some gentrification in certain spots

• Limited parking and street congestion in popular areas

• Higher housing price tags in trendier micro-neighborhoods

• Noise and nightlife a potential drawback for some

White House

About 27 miles north of Downtown Nashville, White House offers that sweet spot of affordability and convenience. With its quaint, small-town atmosphere and new construction, this growing area is one of the best suburbs outside of Nashville for those looking to upsize or relocate.

The city itself has been steadily building out its amenities, including the White House Greenway, a peaceful paved path that’s perfect for evening strolls and weekend bike rides. Locals love the town’s parks and facilities offerings, which include a splash pad and Municipal Park, while the city's seasonal events, like the Americana Celebration, bring the community together for fireworks, food trucks, and music. Neighborhoods like Summerlin, Greystone, and The Parks offer well-maintained homes with larger lots, ideal for hosting backyard BBQs or finally getting that trampoline the kids have been begging for.

For those commuting to Nashville or Hendersonville, convenient I-65 access helps make it manageable, and the area’s slower pace is perfect for enjoying sunny suburban afternoons while staying within reach of the city action. Think affordable homes, friendly neighbors, and the kind of community where it’s easy to get involved with local events, youth sports, or a weekend get-together on the cul-de-sac.

Pros

• Lower price points on homes

• Community-oriented atmosphere

• Expanding retail, dining, and park system

• Easy access to I-65 for commuters

• Quiet neighborhoods with strong community pride

Cons

• Fewer entertainment and dining options than other suburbs

• Longer drive to downtown during peak traffic

• Limited public transportation options

• Newer developments potentially lacking in mature trees, green spaces, or established charm

Hendersonville

If your ideal weekend involves lake views, paddleboards, and breezy outdoor dinners, Hendersonville could be your dream suburb. Located along Old Hickory Lake northeast of Nashville, Hendersonville blends waterfront recreation with suburban comfort, making it one of the best suburbs to live in Nashville for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Here, locals love spending their weekends at Sanders Ferry Park, launching their boats from Drakes Creek Marina, or exploring The Streets of Indian Lake, a shopping and dining hub with everything from big-box favorites to family-owned gems. It’s a great place for growing households, with highly regarded schools, per GreatSchools.org, including the sought-after Merrol Hyde Magnet School, and plenty of youth sports, music programs, and parks. Homes range from lakefront estates to newer subdivisions.

Hendersonville is one of those nice Nashville suburbs that offers the best of both worlds: relaxed and scenic, but with the conveniences of modern suburban life. For potential homeowners looking to trade traffic for tranquility, while still benefiting from access to large retailers, sushi, and Pilates within a 10-minute radius, Hendersonville is a top contender.

Pros

• Lakeside lifestyle with boating, kayaking, and fishing

• Quality schools and community-focused amenities

• Great parks, greenways, and outdoor gathering spaces

• Convenient shopping and dining at The Streets of Indian Lake

• Charming new construction communities like Durham Farms, with modern homes

Cons

• Somewhat longer commute to downtown

• Slightly less accessible amenities than other suburbs

• Potential traffic congestion during rush hour and summer weekends

• Increasing housing prices due to popularity

• Limited upscale nightlife and dining compared to downtown

Columbia

Approximately 46 miles south of Downtown Nashville, Columbia is on our Nashville best suburbs list thanks to its charm, space, and value. With an inviting, small-town feel and a growing list of modern-day amenities, Columbia is easy to fall in love with, especially if you're looking to slow down while still enjoying access to essentials and plenty of activities.

Downtown Columbia, nicknamed Muletown, has experienced a major revitalization in recent years. It’s now packed with colorful murals, creative shops, and local favorites like Muletown Coffee Roasters, Buck & Board, and the weekend Columbia Arts District. It’s the kind of place where people know their baristas by name and residents gather for events like Mule Day, summer concerts, or holiday parades. There’s also plenty of green space, including Chickasaw Trace Park, where you can mountain bike, fish, and explore the woods.

Neighborhoods like Honey Farms and Bear Creek Overlook typically offer affordable homes with space to spread out. Columbia is ideal for homebuyers looking for more land, room for a home office or bonus room, and community, all without compromising on charm or character.

Pros

• Affordable homes with larger lots and space to grow

• Accessible, thriving downtown with shops, restaurants, and events

• Access to beautiful parks, trails, and natural surroundings

• Strong local pride and a growing arts scene

• Easy drive to Spring Hill and other major job hubs

Cons

• Longer commute to Downtown Nashville

• Limited upscale dining or shopping options compared to other suburbs

• Ongoing infrastructure growth

• Less public transit and accessibility

Which Nashville Suburb Is Right for You?

To offer another perspective, we’ve organized some of the best suburbs of Nashville, Tennessee, by lifestyle. When looking at homes in Nashville, consider what matters most to you: commute times, community feel, school districts, or local attractions, and let that guide your next move. You might find yourself drawn to Hendersonville’s lakefront for weekend boat days, historic Franklin for that storybook Southern charm, or Columbia for its up-and-coming affordability.

Best Suburbs in Nashville for Young Professionals

Whether you’re launching your career, working remotely, or commuting downtown a few days a week, the best suburbs of Nashville, TN, for young professionals offer more than just convenience. These spots combine access to major employers with culture, nightlife, and that “cool but not chaotic” energy that makes it easy to call a place home. Here are a few areas where you can expand your career and your community:

• East Nashville: If you're looking for music, culture, and an easy commute to downtown, East Nashville is hard to beat. It’s hip, pedestrian, and loaded with local gems, making it one of the best suburbs of Nashville for those who want to stay close to the action.  

• La Vergne: Located just off I-24, La Vergne is an underrated option for homebuyers seeking value without sacrificing access to major employment hubs like Smyrna and Murfreesboro. It’s practical, close to the airport, and just far enough from the city to escape the downtown bustle. Explore our new construction homes in La Vergne. 

• Franklin: Franklin is a smart pick for those looking for a work-life balance that includes green space, charming coffee shops, and local events. Plus, if you work in corporate offices like Nissan® or around the Cool Springs area, your commute is minimal. 

Best Nashville Suburbs for Families

If school ratings, neighborhood amenities, and room to grow top your priority list, here are some of the best suburbs of Nashville for families that check those boxes. From quality schools and expansive parks to peaceful streets and spacious backyards, these suburbs are designed with growing households in mind. Whether you’re upgrading to more square footage or searching for the best school zone fit, these areas offer the space, support, and stability your lifestyle needs:

• Brentwood: If you prioritize education and a peaceful lifestyle, Brentwood remains one of the good suburbs of Nashville for families. With spacious homes, outstanding parks like Crockett and Smith Park, and proximity to quality public schools, Brentwood is an ideal spot to call home.

• White House: Offering new homes at more accessible prices, White House is growing fast. It features quality schools, close-knit neighborhoods, and plenty of space for play, without the heavy traffic or higher costs of other Nashville suburbs. Explore new construction homes in White House. 

• Columbia: Columbia is ideal for those wanting more home and yard for their money. With a charming, historic downtown and a tight-knit community, it’s a great option for when you want space to spread out in a relaxed, supportive environment. Check out our new construction homes in Columbia. 

New Construction Homes in Nashville, TN

If you're ready to settle down in one of the best suburbs of Nashville, a thoughtfully designed new construction home can give you the space, flexibility, and peace of mind you're looking for. Here are just a few of the new construction communities in Nashville offering convenient access to schools, parks, shopping, and major employers, so you can find a home that fits your lifestyle from the inside out: 

• Devonshire: Indulge in the best of Mt. Juliet living, with Wilson County schools, everyday essentials, and major Nashville employers all within an easy drive. Plus, enjoy weekends among the natural beauty of Percy Priest Lake or Charlie Daniels Park. 

• Hamlet at Carothers Crossing: This community offers easy access to I-24 for commutes to Nashville, Franklin, or Murfreesboro. Located in the Rutherford County school district, explore spacious family homes, scenic walking trails, and proximity to Cane Ridge Park for outdoor play and weekend hikes.

• Millstone: Along with proximity to Sumner County schools, benefit from easy drives to Downtown Nashville and everyday essentials at Millstone. Residents enjoy community amenities such as a pool, splash pad, and clubhouse, plus proximity to Old Hickory Lake, nearby parks, and major employers like Gap®, Xtend Healthcare, and TriStar Medical Center.

• Independence at Carter's Station: This new construction community offers thoughtful home designs, with Spring Hill schools and major employers conveniently close. With a resort-style pool, firepit, tot lot, and picnic areas, plus easy access to I-65, Downtown Columbia, and Nashville International Airport, it’s a connected, convenient place to call home.

Nashville Best Suburbs Conclusion

As you explore some of the best suburbs Nashville, TN, offers, you’ll find each brings something unique to the table, from historic charm and inviting downtown shops to new construction homes and modern amenities designed to suit your lifestyle. At Pulte, we build homes within these Nashville suburbs that feature flexible floor plans and amenities that support how you actually live. If you're ready to make your move, explore our new construction communities in Nashville, TN, and discover a neighborhood that truly feels like home.

Explore new construction homes in Nashville, TN, today, or browse more Pulte blogs. 

Written By: Jordan Thomson, Freelance Writer

Last Updated: INSERT PUBLISH DATE HERE FORMATTED LIKE: 9/18/23