Nashville gained 100+ new residents daily in 2024, driven by no state income tax, a booming healthcare and entertainment economy, and comparatively affordable housing versus coastal cities. The metro population has grown 40% since 2010. Here is what new Nashville residents need to know.
Which Nashville neighborhood fits you?
| Area | Vibe | Median home | | --- | --- | --- | | East Nashville | Hip, artsy | $480,000 | | The Gulch / Downtown | Urban, walkable | $550,000+ | | Green Hills | Upscale, central | $700,000+ | | Franklin | Family, historic | $750,000 | | Brentwood | Affluent suburb | $900,000 |
Estimate your move with the moving cost calculator and compare carriers in Nashville.
What is the traffic reality?
Nashville has no light rail, so traffic on I-24, I-40, and I-65 is heavy during commutes. Location relative to work matters a lot — many newcomers underestimate this.
How do taxes work in Tennessee?
Tennessee has no state income tax, offset by sales tax (around 9.25% combined) and property taxes. The net effect is favorable for most earners.
What about the music and healthcare economy?
Nashville is a hub for music, but healthcare is the largest employer base. The creative economy also fuels strong demand for piano moving — see our piano moving guide — and specialty transport.
Which suburbs work for families?
Franklin and Brentwood offer top schools and a quieter pace, while Mt. Juliet and Hendersonville provide more affordable options. Cost of living overall sits near the national average.
Already eyeing a move from a no-income-tax state like Texas? Compare with our moving from Texas guide. Compare household movers and request free quotes on moving.art.