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Neighborhoods for Young Professionals in Nashville, TN

Young professionals find hipness and history in the Nashville Region’s vibrant, urban neighborhoods.

By Joe Morris on November 17, 2023

Wedgewood-Houston
Brian McCord

More than a decade after being designated by the New York Times as an “It City” (again), Nashville, TN, continues to be a magnet for new residents, particularly the younger professional, or “YoPro” cohort. These newcomers are eager to sample the area’s cuisine, culture and nightlife, and they also want to put down city roots. Happily, there are plenty of urban neighborhoods – both in Nashville proper and in the nearby, bustling downtowns of cities like Murfreesboro and Columbia – for them to explore.

Here’s a look at a few of the Nashville Region’s old, yet new, neighborhoods that offer a strong sense of community, convenience and charm.

Wedgewood-Houston in Nashville, TN

Just a few miles from downtown Nashville, the WeHo neighborhood has capitalized on its roots as a creative hub to become its own arts scene. Galleries, studios and workshops abound here, with plenty of shops, restaurants, distilleries and nightspots nestled in, as well.

“This trendy area offers a mix of modern developments and historic buildings that have been repurposed into trendy shops, bars and restaurants,” says Tonya Hamilton, vice president of relocation and business development for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty. “The neighborhood is close in proximity to downtown, and its affordable housing options have made it a desirable location for young professionals who are looking for a more urban lifestyle. In addition to its lively social scene, WeHo is home to several cultural attractions and events and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, thanks to several parks and green spaces nearby.”

Charlotte Park
Jeff Adkins

Charlotte Park in Nashville, TN

On Nashville’s west side, Charlotte Park sits near another hot spot, The Nations, and it also connects newcomers with an area that’s home to longtime residents as well as more recent transplants.

“Charlotte Park has become increasingly popular in recent years as a quiet, residential neighborhood that offers easy access to the city’s many attractions,” Hamilton says. “Many Charlotte Park homes are mid-century, ranch-style houses that have been updated with modern amenities, giving the neighborhood a comfortable and welcoming feel. The close-knit community and friendly atmosphere make it a great place for young professionals who are looking for a supportive and inclusive environment.”

Madison Near Nashville, TN

Just northeast of downtown Nashville, between the communities of Goodlettsville and Hendersonville, Madison is a vibrant and culturally diverse neighborhood. Over the years, the area has become increasingly popular among young professionals who are attracted to its convenient location, affordable housing and eclectic mix of restaurants and shops, Hamilton says.

“Madison is home to a number of apartment complexes and rental properties that offer young professionals a range of living options, from modern lofts to more traditional apartments. The area’s proximity to downtown Nashville, as well as its easy access to major highways, make it a great location for young professionals who need to commute to work or travel around the city. It also boasts a variety of cultural and recreational attractions and is home to several parks and green spaces, as well as a lot of local restaurants, bars and cafes that offer a wide range of dining and nightlife options.”

Tonya Hamilton, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty

Downtown Columbia and Murfreesboro Near Nashville, TN

Within the Nashville Region, you’ll also find Columbia and Murfreesboro, friendly communities whose downtowns are becoming home to increasing numbers of young professionals, who are looking for more affordable alternatives to big-city life. In Murfreesboro, those young professionals include Middle Tennessee State University students, many of whom choose to stay in the area after graduation.

“Downtown Columbia is charming, historical and attractive, thanks to its unique blend of Southern charm, cultural attractions and affordable living,” Hamilton says, adding that in a similar vein, downtown Murfreesboro also features a “dynamic and diverse social scene, with plenty of opportunities for networking and socializing.”

As far as housing goes, each provides everything from rental options in historic, converted spaces to new construction. Best of all, getting to and from each of these urban centers is easy, thanks to nearby major highways and public transportation options.

Coming Soon to Nashville, TN

Plans are moving forward to develop a community on the east side of the Cumberland River in downtown Nashville that will focus on affordable housing, outdoor greenspaces and safe multimodal connections for businesses.

East Bank is the new downtown neighborhood being explored by Music City elected officials, with the proposed development located on 338 acres of underutilized land along the river.

“In the heart of our city’s thriving downtown sits an exceptional opportunity to build Nashville’s next great neighborhood along the East Bank of the Cumberland River,” said Nashville Mayor John Cooper, in a press release.

Tentative plans include a 15-acre mixed-use development along North First Street, and also under consideration is a mixed-income housing area with 2,390 units called Cayce Place. Along the riverfront, there will be a public greenway for pedestrians and bicyclists.

In addition, tech giant Oracle has purchased 70 acres for a new campus that will host 8,500 employees. Meanwhile, the Tennessee Titans are planning a $2.1 billion domed stadium on an East Bank site.

Dog
Istock.com/adogslifephoto

Perks for Pooches in Nashville, TN

No matter where you choose to live, the region offers several places where you and your pup can stretch your legs and play fetch.

Dog parks can boost your dog’s physical health and serve as a tight-knit community for pet owners. Better yet, now there are two dog park cocktail bars in the Music City where your pet can actually accompany you on a date night, trivia night or happy hour.

One of the dog-friendly venues is Bark Public House, located in the Gulch neighborhood of Nashville. Bark Public allows owners to enjoy a cocktail or two while dogs run in the play yards, and other services offered at Bark Public include dog grooming, dog day care, boarding and a retail store.

Urban Dog Park is the latest canine-and-owner hangout. It’s located in The Nations neighborhood, just west of downtown Nashville. Urban Dog Park specializes in “tails, ales and cocktails,” featuring a fully stocked bar adjacent to an off-leash outdoor park that is separated for larger and smaller dogs.

And Nashville isn’t the only place in the Nashville Region where a dog park and cold brew can go well together. In Murfreesboro, Hop Springs Beer Park spans 83 acres and is largely known for staging outdoor concerts, but its indoor taproom is adjacent to a spacious dog park that also connects to a walking trail lined by a creek.

Kevin Litwin contributed to this article.

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