Living in Nashville vs. Franklin: Which Is Right for You?

Ron Michel, Curb Realty
Sep 19
2 min read

Thinking about making a move to Middle Tennessee? Two of the most popular choices are Nashville and Franklin. While these cities are only about 20 miles apart, they offer very different lifestyles. Deciding between the two often comes down to your priorities—whether that’s a lively city vibe, small-town charm, school districts, or budget.

Let’s break down the differences so you can decide which is the best fit for you.

The Lifestyle

Nashville: Known as Music City, Nashville thrives on energy, entertainment, and culture. From live music on Broadway to food halls, pro sports, and endless events, there’s always something happening. Perfect for those who want a fast-paced, urban lifestyle.

Franklin: Franklin offers a quieter, more suburban atmosphere. Its historic downtown is filled with boutiques, coffee shops, and family-owned restaurants. It’s ideal if you’re looking for small-town charm, community events, and a slower pace without sacrificing conveniences.

The Housing Market

Nashville: Home prices vary widely depending on the neighborhood. You’ll find everything from high-rise condos downtown to renovated bungalows in East Nashville and newer communities in the suburbs. Nashville’s popularity makes the market competitive.

Franklin: Franklin’s real estate leans toward spacious single-family homes, luxury builds, and master-planned communities. It tends to be pricier than Nashville on average, but many families find the value worth it thanks to schools, safety, and community appeal.

Schools & Family-Friendly Amenities

Nashville: Metro Nashville Public Schools serve the city, but many families choose private or magnet schools. Nashville does offer a wide variety of extracurriculars, museums, and kid-friendly attractions.

Franklin: Located in Williamson County—one of the top-rated school districts in Tennessee. Many families move to Franklin specifically for its strong public schools and family-focused amenities like parks and community centers.

Commute & Accessibility

Nashville: Living in Nashville means you’re closer to major employers, hospitals, universities, and entertainment. Commutes are shorter if you work in the city, though traffic can still be heavy during rush hours.

Franklin: Commuting from Franklin to downtown Nashville can take 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic. However, many residents work locally in Williamson County, where job opportunities are growing fast.

The Vibe

Nashville: Urban, energetic, trendy, and diverse. Great for young professionals, creatives, and anyone who thrives on city life.
Franklin: Suburban, family-oriented, polished, and historic. Great for families, retirees, or those seeking a quieter pace with a strong sense of community.

Which One Is Right for You?

Choose Nashville if you love city life, want endless entertainment options, or need quick access to downtown.
Choose Franklin if schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and small-town charm top your priority list.

Both cities are incredible in their own ways—and the good news? You don’t have to pick just one to enjoy. Nashville and Franklin are close enough that you can experience the best of both whenever you’d like.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Home?

Whether your heart leans toward the energy of Nashville or the charm of Franklin, I can help you find a home that fits your lifestyle and budget.

👉 Schedule a free consultation today to start your home search in Middle Tennessee.