What comes to mind when you think about Nashville? Probably music, right? Perhaps Taylor Swift or Billy Ray Cyrus?
Yes, Nashville is known for its music (as it should since it’s nicknamed “Music City”!), but this city offers SO many other hidden gems you’re probably not aware of.
This city offers something for everyone from the bustling downtown to the rolling hills and green pastures in the suburbs!
If you are considering moving to Nashville, TN and are looking for a “moving to Nashville guide” of some sort, then carry on reading!
Here at Sanelo, we want to make sure you know the important stuff so that you can make an informed decision about living in Nashville.
So let’s get started!
1. Nashville Then And Now: A Brief History
There’s a lot of history in the air and on the ground when you visit Nashville.
Did you know that it was formerly a hunting ground for Cherokee, Chickasaw and Shawnee (Native American people) who occupied the area more than 700 years ago, around 1300 AD?
Then, by the early 1700s, the first European settlers established a settlement in not only that area but also a fur trading network with the local Native Americans.
About 200 years later, in 1925, Nashville opened what we now know as the Grand Ole Opry, a live music venue, and so the city became known as Music City.
Now, Nashville is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of Tennessee, located on the Cumberland River. With a population of 689,447 as of the 2020 United States census, it is the 21st most populous city in the United States.
2. Which Nashville Neighbourhood Is For You?
Okay, now that you have some background info on the city, let’s take a look at some neighbourhoods you can consider living in after you’ve moved to Nashville!
Downtown Nashville
If you’re working in the downtown area, then Downtown should be one of the best places for you to live in!
Residents of Downtown Nashville get to enjoy its 1.8 square miles of destinations and amenities, which range from restaurants and bars to music venues, museums, parks, and shopping!
Commuting to and from Downtown Nashville would be pretty convenient, as it has convenient access to 3 major Interstate systems (I-40, I-65 and I-24) and the Nashville International Airport.
Hence, it is no surprise that Downtown apartments consistently have occupancy rates of over 95%, and some properties even have waiting lists!
The Gulch
Located just a little bit south of Downtown Nashville, the Gulch offers residents a walkable lifestyle.
Whether you’re headed to the grocery store to get ingredients for dinner, or you want to have a quick workout session before work at a fitness studio, you’ll be able to walk to your destination and arrive there in minutes!
You’ll also be able to walk to Downtown Nashville, as well as other neighbourhoods nearby!
Most importantly, the Gulch provides the ideal amenities for those who want to be “in the heart of the action” in Nashville, such as restaurants, bars, music venues and bike paths, among many others, making it more suitable for young adults, though less for families.
Housing options in the Gulch are mostly high-rise apartments and condominiums.
West End And Elliston Place
West End is a bustling district of Nashville known for its Centennial Park and The Parthenon, and yes, you guessed it: it’s located on the West side of Nashville!
If you’re a history buff, you’re probably thinking, “Isn’t The Parthenon in Athens??” Yes, it is! “But you just said it’s in Nashville!”
Well, low and behold, The Parthenon in Nashville is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens. Take a look at the picture. Would you have known it was taken in Nashville instead of Greece?
This neighbourhood has plenty to offer, with many restaurants and shops catering mainly to the local crowd, as well as Elliston Place, aka “the rock block” that offers hip culture!
Housing options on the West End are mainly apartment buildings and condominium areas, and residents are within close proximity to many great local bars and restaurants.
Midtown
Sandwiched between various neighbourhoods, Midtown is best known for the prestigious Vanderbilt University and is thus home to many university students and young professionals.
It offers plenty of nightlife and dining options, including dining options that open till 5 in the morning, making it apt for both the young and the young at heart!
Housing options in Midtown are primarily condominiums and apartments; great for young adults and singles!
East Nashville
Once considered a rougher part of Music City, East Nashville has since undergone neighbourhood revitalisation and has seen large-scale renovations and business growth.
Now, the neighbourhood is more community-centred than ever and has become a haven for arts and culture, attracting various artists, musicians and creatives.
3. Education After Moving To Nashville TN
If you’re a parent or a prospective university student, educational institutions are likely to be an essential factor in your decision to move and live in Nashville, Tennessee.
Nashville is home to an astounding array of universities such as Tennessee State University, Fisk University, Lipscomb University, Belmont University, and last but definitely not least, Vanderbilt University!
Let’s talk a bit about Vanderbilt University, shall we?
Ranking at #14 in National Universities, Vanderbilt University offers an array of majors including but not limited to:
- Social Sciences;
- History;
- Chemical Engineering;
- Cognitive Science;
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies;
- Molecular Biology;
- Film/Cinema/Video Studies;
- Music; as well as
- Religious Studies.
There’s definitely something for everyone! It’s certainly worth checking out if you’re looking to pursue your studies!
4. Cost Of Living In Nashville
If you like what you’ve been reading about Nashville so far, then we have more good news for you: the cost of living in Nashville, Tennessee, is affordable!
According to Payscale, the overall cost of living in Nashville is 3% below the national average. In terms of housing, utilities, groceries and transportation, none of these costs in Nashville exceeds the national average.
The cost of housing and utilities are about 10% below the national average, while groceries are 3% below the national average. Transportation expenses such as gas prices and bus fares are 0% higher than the national average.
5. Nashville’s Unemployment Rate And Job Market
If you’re not schooling, then you’re probably working or looking for a job. Nashville has got your back. With an impressively low unemployment rate of 3.8% as of May 2021 (as compared to the national average of 5.8%), your chances to land a job in Nashville are likely to be quick.
According to Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp., major industries in Nashville include:
- Educational services, and health care and social assistance (22.4%)
- Professional, scientific, and management, and administrative and waste management services (11.8%)
- Retail trade (11.3%)
- Arts, entertainment, and recreation, and accommodation and food services (10.6%)
- Manufacturing (10.6%)
In total, the industries listed above make up about two-thirds of all the industries in Nashville.
Nashville also houses various companies such as the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nissan North America, HCA Healthcare Inc., Bridgestone Americas Inc. and Walgreens.
6. The Climate In Music City
In general, Nashville experiences hot, humid summers and generally cool winters, typical of the Upper South.
You can expect snow mainly in January and February, although the snowfall is usually not heavy, perfect for a winter picture!
Rainfall is typically greater in November and December and spring, while August to October are usually the driest months.
Spring and fall in Nashville are prone to severe thunderstorms, which may bring tornadoes, large hail, and damaging wind.
In a nutshell, the best weather in Nashville is probably in the summer months, but temperatures are expected to be pleasant for most of the year, so you can enjoy the outdoors as much as you want!
That being said, let’s explore outdoor recreation options in Nashville, shall we?
7. Parks And Outdoor Recreation in Nashville
Nashville is home to various open spaces and parks where you can carry out different kinds of activities:
- Walk, jog, cycle or see migratory birds and other local wildlife along the Cumberland River
- Watch the animals at the Nashville Zoo in Grassmere
- Visit Shelby Park for playgrounds and tennis courts, dog parks and golf courses
- Visit monuments or walk along the walking trails in Centennial park
There are so many places for you to explore all year round!
8. The Music In Music City
Although Nashville’s musical culture is rooted in country music, the city has spurned musicians from various genres, including hip-hop and classical piano. Music City indeed boasts a large population of musicians and supporters of all kinds of music!
Nashville is laden with melodic songs from bars and restaurants to even street corners, be it country or not.
Music venues such as The Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium and Bluebird Cafe have hosted top names, including Taylor Swift, Garth Brooks and Phill Vassar.
Just like New Orleans, you can also find the streets of Broadway being lined with street musicians!
9. Festivals In The Music City!
Once you’re living in Nashville, Tennessee, you’ll never get bored!
Throughout the year, find yourself attending the many festivals and entertainment events and enjoying the food, music, drinks, and activities.
- Attend the Nashville Whiskey Fest to raise a glass with industry leaders in the world of whiskey
- If you’re into movies and films, then check out the Nashville Film Festival, one of the oldest film festivals in the South
- Sing and dance along to country bops at the annual Country Music Association (CMA) Fest
- Celebrate the ultimate Southern Treat at the National Banana Pudding Festival
Conclusion About Moving To Nashville Secret Guide
So there you have it! 9 untold facts about Nashville, Tennessee, that you ought to know before you move here!
From the weather and music scene to the job market and parks, consider yourself informed! There’s plenty of activities, festivals and amenities in Nashville to keep anyone from being bored.
Here at Sanelo, we are ready to help you should you choose to relocate to Nashville!
Want to find out more about other cities near Nashville? Read up on our guides to moving to St Louis, Louisville and Charlotte!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Moving to Nashville TN
Do I Need A Car In Nashville?
Unless you’re planning to live in Downtown Nashville where it is walkable, you’d probably either need a car.
Otherwise, you could make use of ride-sharing platforms like Uber and Lyft. Public transportation is available, but neighbourhoods and attractions are quite spread out to walk between.
Is Nashville Worth Moving To?
Yes! With an affordable cost of living, plenty of employment opportunities and educational growth, as well as tons of outdoor recreation, it’s worth moving to Nashville!
Do I Need To Engage Professional Movers If I Choose To Relocate To Nashville?
Engaging professional movers will make your moving experience much more enjoyable as they’re trained and well-equipped to handle all your logistics. Sanelo will enrol you into our shipment protection so that you can have peace of mind.
Can I Engage Sanelo If I Am Moving To Nashville From Another Country?
Yes! Sanelo provides relocation services for both international moving and local moving, so it does not matter where you’re relocating from.
Here are some of our resources you may refer to for a quote to get things started on the moving process: