The Ultimate Renter's Guide To Nashville

Nashville has consistently been at the top of lists of the best places in the United States to live. The housing market continues to thrive, and the city is constantly experiencing growth. With competitive prices, plenty of things to do, and family-friendly housing options, it’s no wonder Nashville is attracting and becoming home to so many people. Considering a move to the Nashville area? This guide will provide you with tips and stats so that you can make the best decision about where to plant your roots in this eclectic city.

Neighborhood Vibe

Experts Say…
“East Nashville is cool. Just no other way to say it. It’s a trendy, hip area that has become one of the most desirable places to live. The East Nashville community attracts young professionals, musicians, and entrepreneurs. It’s a progressive and diverse community where you wave to your neighbors as you stroll to locally owned shops, eateries, and breweries. There is an energy that flows effortlessly here.” —Michelle Glass, affiliate broker with Parks Realty
“I feel Nashville has a young, energetic vibe going on right now. Many young entrepreneurs and start-up companies are coming out of the woodwork in Nashville. Lots of relocation from larger cities, looking to plant roots in a more economical city that has a fun and lively feel.” —Andra Brewer, licensed real estate agent with Benchmark Realty
“Nashville has a great vibe. Fun and new, exciting and hip, traditional and relaxed!” —Jennie Zagnoev, affiliate broker with Zeitlin & Co.

What Should a Renter/Buyer Know?

What Makes the Neighborhood Desirable?

Experts say…
“East Nashville has so many local spots, each with its own local flair! It’s nice to experience that fun charisma in a neighborhood. I grew up in West Nashville, and it’s nice to know there is so much to do in so many areas of this thriving city!” —Jennie Zagnoev, affiliate broker with Zeitlin & Co.
“It’s like Mayberry meets SoHo, with its Southern charm and cool vibe. Locally owned shops from a hardware store to a juice bar to corner grocery, you literally do not have to seek out the big box stores, and the residents like it that way. The charm of Victorian- and Craftsman-style homes with the redevelopment of the outlying area appeals to many natives and newcomers to Nashville.” —Michelle Glass, affiliate broker with Parks Realty
“Nashville has tons of great places to see and things to do. Even free events and places that people don’t know about. The Nashville libraries are great. The Parthenon is super cool. East Nashville has such a close proximity to downtown that it’s pretty hard to beat. I can get over the river and be parked downtown in 15 minutes. You can ride a bike downtown in 30 minutes! The community is diverse and close-knit. People are fun, full of energy and make for very interesting people watching. Don’t believe me? Come to our annual Tomato Art Festival or the East Nashville Beer Festival!” —Andra Brewer, licensed real estate agent with Benchmark Realty

Recommended Eats and Drinks

Experts say…
“Pharmacy Burger Parlor and Beer Garden. You hear more about their burgers, but their shakes are pretty darn good. Two Ten Jack. On my list to try. Nashville’s first Japanese pub. Lockeland Table. A great farm to table menu and happy hour. Five Daughters Bakery. Mouthwatering 100-layer cronuts. A-mazing.” —Michelle Glass, affiliate broker with Parks Realty

“East Nashville offers so many great places to eat. My top picks in the neighborhood would be Local Taco, 5 Points Pizza, Graze, Wild Cow.” —Andra Brewer, licensed real estate agent with Benchmark Realty

“I love going to Sperry’s for dinner, where you walk in, and everybody knows your name! Their salad bar is top notch, and all of the dressings are homemade. Coffee at Dose is so delicious! My newest favorite spot for any time of day is Funk Seoul Brother for a sushi burrito on Scarritt Place. It’s quick and easy and so flavorful!” —Jennie Zagnoev, affiliate broker with Zeitlin & Co.

Nearby Universities and Colleges

Vanderbilt University
2201 West End Ave., Nashville, TN, USA
Belmont University
1900 Belmont Blvd., Nashville, TN, USA
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)
1301 E. Main St., Murfreesboro, TN, USA

Neighborhood Disadvantages

Experts say…
“Options are limited for rentals. Properties that might have been owned for rental income are selling for top dollar and being renovated and flipped. As well as available rentals simply not being on the market long, things go quickly here.” —Michelle Glass, affiliate broker with Parks Realty
“It’s a little farther out than some are used to, or would prefer.” —Jennie Zagnoev, affiliate broker with Zeitlin & Co.
“Home prices and rentals have risen dramatically in the last few years. If you haven’t made a move, you may be priced out of the area. My only other complaint is many of the commercial areas don’t offer enough parking, but that’s a citywide issue.” —Andra Brewer, licensed real estate agent with Benchmark Realty

Neighborhood Stats

Median Household Income (2015): $51,393
Average Age: 34–39
Population (2014): 644,014
Average Rent Cost (2015): $915
*All statistics are taken from City-Data.com

Architectural Sites and Landmarks

The Parthenon
Designed by William Crawford Smith in Classical style
2500 West End Ave., Nashville, TN, USA
Tennessee State Capitol
Designed by William Strickland in Greek Revival style
600 Charlotte Ave., Nashville, TN, USA
Belmont Mansion
Designed by William Strickland and Adolphus Heiman in Greek Revival and Italianate style
1900 Belmont Blvd., Nashville, TN, USA
Experts say…
“Many Craftsman bungalows and historic homes are found throughout East Nashville.” —Andra Brewer, licensed real estate agent with Benchmark Realty

Green Spaces

landscape with balloons floating in the air

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