Where To Live In Nashville, Tennessee? Top 5 Neighborhoods!
One of the most common questions I get, whether you're moving here from out of state or relocating within the city, is where should I live in Nashville? The truth is, every neighborhood has its own vibe, and it really comes down to if it matches your lifestyle, your budget, and what matters most to you. So, in this video, I'm breaking down five of the top neighborhoods in Nashville, and giving you my own personal take on each neighborhood.
If you could describe your dream neighborhoods in just three words, what would they be? Quiet, walkable, family oriented? Let me know in the comments, and I would love to help match you with the right part of town.
Neighborhood Number One: 12 South
The lifestyle of this neighborhood is family-friendly and walkable. 12 South consists of a one-mile strip of retail, restaurants, local boutiques, coffee shops, and a ton of office space. Sevier Park is an anchor to this community. It hosts local farmers markets and neighborhood events. It also has plenty of places for kids to play, with basketball and pickleball courts as well. The real estate in this community includes a mix of 1920s through 1940s bungalows, and many newly renovated projects. Homes today are selling for over a million dollars, and inventory is incredibly tight. 12 South is the “it” place to be, and many people are relocating here—making it a very competitive submarket. Amenities and access are excellent—it’s just minutes south of downtown Nashville, steps from Belmont University, close to Vanderbilt University, and has easy interstate access. Popular local spots include Edley’s Bar-B-Que, Bartaco, Urban Grub, and Frothy Monkey. The vibe is vibrant and trendy, appealing to young professionals, families, and creatives. On weekends it becomes a tourist hotspot, while weekdays feel more local and relaxed.
Neighborhood Number Two: The Gulch
The Gulch is ultra-urban, walkable, and flashy. It’s a sub-neighborhood within the downtown corridor, just south of the city center. The Gulch is known for its high-rise condos, rooftop bars, and as a restaurant and retail hub. This area is popular among young professionals and executives who want proximity to work and city life without being in the heart of downtown. Real estate here mainly consists of high-rise condominiums and some townhomes. Notable buildings include The Pullman and 1212. The Gulch offers walkable access to downtown, shops, restaurants, and entertainment, plus immediate interstate access. Top hotels include The Thompson and W Nashville. Staple restaurants include Biscuit Love, Adele’s, STK, Marsh House, and Peg Leg Porker. The vibe is fast-paced, walkable, and energetic. It appeals to professionals and investors alike, offering turnkey opportunities for both long- and short-term rentals. (By the way, if you don’t know who I am—my name is Sam Gray. I’m a realtor based in Nashville, Tennessee, helping people relocate, invest, and find neighborhoods that fit their lifestyle. If you’re enjoying this breakdown, make sure to like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you never miss a new video. And if you’re watching this on TV, scan the QR code to connect with me directly.)
Neighborhood Number Three: Green Hills
Green Hills has an upscale, suburban feel while being only 15 minutes from downtown Nashville. It’s known for top-rated public and private schools, including Montgomery Bell, Harpeth Hall, Ensworth, and Lipscomb Academy. This neighborhood features quiet residential streets but is close to premier dining and retail. Real estate includes luxury tear-down new builds, classic ranch-style homes, and custom properties ranging from $2–5 million. Amenities include The Mall at Green Hills—one of the largest and most well-known shopping destinations in the city. The community vibe is affluent and family-oriented, with residents valuing top schools and proximity to downtown without the hustle of urban living.
Neighborhood Number Four: Germantown
Germantown is Nashville’s most historic neighborhood—the first established back in the mid-1800s. It blends old-world charm with modern design, featuring historic brick buildings, cobblestone-style streets, and tree-lined sidewalks alongside new developments. It’s walkable to downtown and home to the Nashville Sounds minor league baseball team. Germantown is a food lover’s paradise, packed with award-winning restaurants, local bakeries, and coffee shops on nearly every corner. This area appeals to professionals, downsizers, and young creatives seeking authenticity and character. Real estate includes renovated cottages, townhomes, condos, and new infill developments. Due to its historic overlay and limited land, it’s a competitive market. Neighborhood staples include Rolf & Daughters, City House, Butchertown Hall, and Fifth & Taylor. Nearby are the Nashville Farmers Market, Bicentennial Capitol Mall, and Oktoberfest—one of the city’s biggest annual events. Germantown feels authentic and community-driven, with a diverse mix of residents who value history and modern living in equal measure.
Neighborhood Number Five: East Nashville
East Nashville is the city’s creative and eclectic hub—home to musicians, artists, and those drawn to an indie, artsy lifestyle. It’s filled with local breweries, restaurants, and mom-and-pop shops rather than national chains. The neighborhood has a strong community vibe, with frequent local events, live music, and pop-up shows. Shelby Bottoms and Shelby Park are major anchors, offering hundreds of acres of greenways and outdoor recreation. Housing options include historic cottages, Craftsman bungalows, and modern new construction homes. Prices are more affordable compared to the other neighborhoods mentioned. Popular spots include Five Points Pizza, Rosepepper Cantina, Mas Tacos, and The Pharmacy Burger. Shelby Park alone offers over 300 acres of green space, trails, and even a golf course. The community feel is artsy, diverse, and connected—appealing to young families, first-time buyers, and investors alike. Locals say once you move to East Nashville, you’ll never want to leave—it’s that special.
For more videos about Nashville and what it has to offer, make sure to check out one of these videos on the screen. Thanks for watching!
Make sure to check out my YouTube video by clicking this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCumxznR-GgKpZWMmYtBpI4w/videos?sub_confirmation=1
