Whether searching for authentic culinary options or hoping to emerge as the next prominent singer-songwriter, Nashville is a city full of soul, culture, and ambition! As a top-rated Nashville moving company, we’ve learned a thing or two about our hometown, which is why we’ve put together some essential information that will have you feeling like a local in no time!
Overview & History of Nashville
Nashville wasn’t always known as Music City, USA. It used to not even be called Nashville. Originally, the city was called Fort Nashborough, after the Revolutionary War hero Francis Nash. Nashville was incorporated in 1806 as the county seat of Davidson County, TN.
Overcoming economic difficulties after the Civil War, the advent of the Grand Ole Opry in 1925 worked in tandem with an already thriving publishing industry to begin cultivating the identity of Music City. However, there’s more to Nashville than just country music. It has seen tremendous growth over the years. While some still view it as merely a tourist destination, more than 600,000 locals enjoy calling Nashville home thanks to its wide variety of social and professional opportunities.
Cost of Living in Nashville
Despite Nashville being a popular tourist destination, it still has a slightly lower cost of living than the national average, coming in at 3% less. Housing is 9% below the national average, with the average home costing around $300,000 and the median rent being about $1,000. Food and groceries are about 3% lower than the national average, and healthcare is 18% lower. Here are some helpful breakdowns to give you an idea of costs:
- Meal for one at an inexpensive restaurant: $15
- Cup of coffee: $4.50
- A gallon of milk: $2.99
- Dozen eggs: $1.78
- One-way bus ticket (local transport): $2
- A gallon of gas: $2.39
- Movie ticket: $13
- Beer (1 pint): $6
Nashville’s Job Market
Whether you’re relocating for a current position or hoping to find something new, the job market plays an instrumental role in moving to a new city. With nearly 95 people moving to Nashville daily, there must be enough jobs for all the new faces! Fortunately, Nashville consistently sees new and innovative developments. Businesses and investors regularly choose to invest in Nashville, with new projects continually moving the city forward. The high quality of life and low cost of living also contribute significantly to Nashville’s booming job market.
Several large companies operate out of Nashville, spanning industries and sparking job creation in healthcare, retail, and food. Notable companies with headquarters in Nashville include Amazon, Bridgestone Americas Inc., Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc., iHeartMedia, Nissan North America, and Saint Thomas Health.
Popular Neighborhoods
If you’re serious about moving to Nashville, then it’s time to take a closer look at some of the popular neighborhoods in the area to figure out which could be the perfect fit for you! We recommend a visit before deciding where you’d like to be!
- Edgehill: This is an excellent area for young couples or young, single professionals looking for a centrally located home. It’s located parallel to Music Row, and while it’s mainly comprised of commercial space, if you can snag a residential home in this neighborhood, you’ll be close to the action without having to be directly in it.
- Germantown: This neighborhood is one of the oldest and most eclectic in the city. It’s an excellent place for families, as it’s primarily residential. Germantown has an amazing Oktoberfest each year, and the entire city turns out to celebrate. It’s also home to some of Nashville’s favorite restaurants, such as City House and Rolf & Daughters. The area offers several housing types and is close to Nashville’s stellar farmer’s market.
- Gulch: Located just south of downtown Nashville, this neighborhood is upscale, trendy, and full of things to do. It’s an excellent place for young adults or professionals without families who want to be in the heart of downtown Nashville. Residents can enjoy an extremely walkable lifestyle in various places, such as restaurants, bars, grocery stores, fitness studios, clothing stores, music venues, apartments, condos, and a newly constructed greenway.
- Downtown: This one-of-a-kind neighborhood features live music every night of the week, as well as ongoing events going on at Bridgestone Arena, Nissan Stadium, the Ryman, and Riverfront Park. Many refer to the city (primarily because of this thriving downtown scene) as Nashvegas. While this area isn’t ideal for families, it’s an excellent place for the initial move to Nashville, as it lets you experience what Nashville is known for.
- East Nashville: As Nashville’s most eccentric and progressive neighborhood, East Nashville has a lot to offer if you’re looking for a laid-back community and undeniably great culture. The area boasts townhomes, single-family homes, duplexes, and apartments, so the variety of residents is wide; however, East Nashville residents tend to be young, hip adults and families. Getting to this neighborhood from downtown involves driving or crossing the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world.
- Hillsboro Village: This urban and walkable neighborhood has ample housing options, but you won’t see any high rises here. Many college students move to this area due to its proximity to Belmont and Vanderbilt University. There are a lot of single-family homes available, which makes this neighborhood much more family-friendly. Hillsboro Village is a great area to call home, with 15 bars and restaurants, including staples like Pancake Pantry and Fido.
Entertainment & Culture
Nashville has no shortage of entertainment, art, and culture, from trendy and tasty restaurants to its vibrant music scene. Whether you’re hoping to catch some live music, looking to wander through the North Nashville Arts District, interested in seeing an indie flick at the Belcourt Theater, or interested in doing a little hiking and biking, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Nashville, TN!
Why Is Everyone Moving to Nashville?
People from across the country are settling in Nashville for many reasons. The following are some primary reasons you should consider moving to Music City!
- The growing cosmopolitan atmosphere: This Southern star is famous for more than just music. Nashville has plenty of restaurants, a low cost of living, and a vibrant cultural environment.
- Nashville is a “smart” city: Vanderbilt University and Tennessee State University are in Nashville, as are a wide range of top-rated trade schools and choices for elementary, middle, and high schools.
- Low unemployment: Nashville’s economy is solid and stable, with an unemployment rate regularly falling below the national average. Career opportunities abound in healthcare, education, logistics, and many other fields.
- Strong communities: There are plenty of beautiful neighborhoods in and around Nashville. Belle Meade, Brentwood, Hillsboro Village, and many more provide the entire family with a high quality of life to enjoy. And with multiple communities come multiple festivals throughout the year that celebrate the region’s food, culture, and music.
- Nashville is near nature: Nashville’s geographical location means that the subtropical climate provides hot summers and mild winters. That is perfect because there are many forests, lakes, rivers, and National Parks within a short drive of the city, where you can stretch your legs, enjoy the fresh air, and relax from the daily grind throughout the year.
The Black Tie Moving team can help you move to Nashville. Contact us at (513) 647-1458 to learn more about our services and the steps our team can take care of that will make your move go a little bit easier.
Moving to Nashville
We hope this Nashville city guide has helped you to get to know Nashville a little more — and perhaps you’re ready to make the move and become the next full-time Nashville resident!
Wherever you may be moving from, Black Tie Moving is ready to help make your move to Nashville an unforgettable VIP experience! We offer comprehensive concierge moving services and can even supply quality packing and supplies to make your transition super easy!
Are you thinking of moving to Nashville? Give our team of local, industry-leading movers a call today at (513) 647-1458 and get a free quote on your moving costs! We would love to help you move from start to finish and treat you like a rock star every step!
