Moving to a new city, especially one like Nashville, was a big shift. Everything changed when I left Kansas City. In this video, I want to walk you through my experience living in Nashville, Tennessee so far. And if you’re thinking about moving here, there’s a lot I wish I would have known. If you’ve ever moved across state lines, what was the hardest part? Was it leaving your community, starting from scratch, or adjusting to a new culture? Drop it in the comments—I want to hear what your move was like.
Growing up, I always knew I wanted to create a different life outside of Kansas City and start a new journey in a new city. In high school, I played baseball and was committed to play at the University of Maine. During COVID, that opportunity was no longer there—I lost my roster spot since I was recruited last and was lower on their depth chart. At the very last minute, I had the opportunity to earn a walk-on position at Belmont University, which initially got me to Nashville. Fast forward, I came to Belmont as a student, but that baseball opportunity was no longer there. I always knew that if baseball wasn’t part of God’s plan for me anymore, I wanted to start real estate. During my first year as a student, I was trying to figure out Nashville, Belmont, and life here. I had a strong calling from the Lord to pursue a real estate license. I didn’t really understand it at the time since I was so focused on being a student, but I decided to get licensed, started pursuing real estate while in school, and within six months I was busy enough that I had to choose between staying a student or going full-time into real estate. Ultimately, I chose real estate—and it’s been such a blessing. Now here we are today, living in Nashville and continuing to run and operate my real estate business.
What also drew me to Nashville was the abundance of opportunity. I didn’t know specifically what I was going to do when I came here, but there’s just so much possibility. Everyone can really paint their own path and find a community here. Growing up, I always craved that southern community, something I felt I lacked back home. That’s why I was so excited to move here—to experience it. My first impression of Nashville was just how giving and open-handed people were. So many people poured into me, loved me, welcomed me, and made me feel right at home. I’ve been blessed to find community at Belmont and at Zeal Church here in Nashville, where small groups and church friends have been such a huge part of my journey. Being immersed in Nashville’s culture, exploring neighborhoods, and meeting new people—all of it has shown me how unique and special this city truly is.
Southern hospitality has been easy to embrace because it aligns with my personal values. It’s taught me to slow down, be intentional with people, and really learn who they are so I can best serve them. I love that Nashville always has something new to do—whether it’s catching a Predators game, a Titans football game, Vanderbilt athletics, trying new restaurants and coffee shops, or exploring neighborhoods. Nashville is full of micro-neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. For example, 12 South is one of my favorites, while East Nashville is more artsy and creative. There’s truly something for everyone here.
Some of my favorite local spots include Frothy Monkey in 12 South—it has amazing outdoor seating under the trees and such a friendly community feel. I also love The Well Coffeehouse near Music Row and Lipscomb University for its younger, vibrant energy. For food, Five Points Pizza is a go-to with its New York–style slices and locations in East and West Nashville. Dicey’s Pizza in Wedgewood-Houston is another favorite—it’s unique, with great outdoor seating and a fun, energetic vibe. And of course, Nashville is known for its hot chicken, so Prince’s Hot Chicken is my top pick. While Hattie B’s is popular, Prince’s is the true original Nashville staple. For upscale dining, I highly recommend Fifth & Taylor in Germantown. The neighborhood’s historic charm, brick buildings, and high-end food make it one of the best dining experiences in the city.
Since Nashville is known as Music City, my favorite live music venues include Bridgestone Arena—where the Predators play and major artists perform—Ascend Amphitheater, an intimate outdoor venue along the Cumberland River, and the Municipal Auditorium, which hosts events like The Belonging Co. Conference. Beyond the big venues, Nashville has countless hole-in-the-wall spots and writer’s rounds in East Nashville, Midtown, and downtown where you can hear up-and-coming artists perform.
Some of my favorite community events in Nashville include CMA Fest—held each year at Nissan Stadium—which brings artists and fans from around the country. Oktoberfest is another great one, celebrating Nashville’s German roots, and the Tomato Art Fest in East Nashville is always a fun time. What really surprised me about Nashville was how strong its music culture is. Growing up in Kansas City, I didn’t experience anything like it. Most of my friends here are in the music industry in some way, and living here has taught me so much about that world.
Something else I didn’t realize before moving here is that Nashville is also the healthcare capital of the U.S., with around 90% of businesses connected to the healthcare industry. It’s also a huge entrepreneurial city. Many people from places like Silicon Valley have started businesses here because Tennessee is so business-friendly and financially incentivizing.
By the way, my name is Sam Gray, and I’m a realtor with Compass based right here in Nashville, Tennessee. Just like many of you, I was looking for a city that made sense for my business and the life I wanted to build. Real estate felt like a natural fit for me after relocating because I could relate to people moving to a new city and starting from scratch. My purpose in life is to love, serve, and impact people—and real estate gives me that platform. After stepping away from baseball, I knew entrepreneurship was my path. I previously owned an aerial photography and videography business in Kansas City serving realtors, and I loved the competitive, creative side of it. Real estate aligns perfectly with who I am.
Nashville’s rapid growth created the perfect opportunity for me to jump into the industry. Hundreds of people move here every day, and it’s been such a blessing to start from scratch in a city like this. It’s given me the opportunity to create something special—to build a business, serve incredible clients, and meet amazing people. I’ve also grown personally, building intentional relationships, meeting my best friends, and growing in my faith.
I learned the Nashville market quickly by walking and driving through every neighborhood. You pick up so much more by being there in person rather than just studying maps. I still take nighttime drives to explore micro-neighborhoods and stay familiar with the city’s constant evolution. Showing homes daily has taught me the nuances of each area—the commute times, the architecture, the community feel. I also research new developments and inventory daily so I’m always up to date on the market. Talking with Nashville natives has been invaluable, hearing their stories about the city’s growth and future. Nashville’s market continues to outperform most major cities because of ongoing relocation and corporate investment. Companies like Oracle moving their headquarters here have fueled even more growth—and it’s not slowing down anytime soon.
After hearing all this, can you see why Nashville has become such a big part of my story? If you’re considering moving here, what questions do you still have? Let me know in the comments. For more videos about Nashville and what it has to offer, make sure to check out the videos on the screen. Thanks for watching—I’m Sam Gray, and I’ll see you in the next one.
Make sure to check out my YouTube video by clicking this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCumxznR-GgKpZWMmYtBpI4w/videos?sub_confirmation=1
