Skip to main content

How to Choose Which Nashville Suburb to Live In (and Why Franklin & McEwen Northside Are Top Picks)

September 5, 2025

Moving to the Nashville area is exciting, but choosing the right suburb can feel overwhelming. Each community offers its own unique vibe, amenities, and lifestyle perks. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, here’s how to narrow down your options—and why Franklin, TN, and McEwen Northside should be at the top of your list.


What to Consider When Choosing a Nashville Suburb

Before diving into specific neighborhoods, think about what matters most to you:

  • Commute Time: How far do you want to be from downtown Nashville or your workplace?
  • School Quality: Families often prioritize top-rated schools.
  • Lifestyle & Amenities: Do you want a walkable community, outdoor recreation, or a vibrant dining scene?
  • Housing Costs: Nashville suburbs range from affordable to luxury living.
  • Community Vibe: Some suburbs feel like small towns, while others offer an urban, mixed-use experience.

Why Franklin, TN, Is One of the Best Nashville Suburbs

Franklin consistently ranks among the top suburbs in the Nashville metro area—and for good reason:

  • Historic Charm Meets Modern Living: Downtown Franklin is a National Register district with 16 blocks of boutiques, restaurants, and cultural attractions. It’s perfect for those who love a small-town feel with big-city conveniences.
  • Top-Rated Schools: Franklin is part of Williamson County Schools, one of the highest-performing districts in Tennessee.
  • Thriving Job Market: Major employers like Nissan North America, United Healthcare, and Mars Petcare call Franklin home, making it a hub for professionals.
  • Outdoor Recreation: From Natchez Trace Parkway to Timberland Park, Franklin offers plenty of hiking, biking, and scenic spots.
  • Safety & Community: Franklin’s crime rate is significantly lower than state and national averages, making it one of the safest cities in Tennessee.

Pro Tip: Franklin homes are in high demand, with median prices often above $800K, but the investment is worth it for the quality of life.


Why McEwen Northside Is Perfect for Modern Living

If you love the idea of living in Franklin but want a more urban, walkable lifestyle, McEwen Northside is your answer.

  • Luxury Apartments & Amenities: Think resort-style pools, fitness centers, co-working spaces, and pet-friendly perks.
  • Walkable Community: Located in Cool Springs, McEwen Northside offers easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment—all within steps of your front door.
  • Live, Work, Play: This thoughtfully planned district combines residential, retail, and office spaces, creating a vibrant, connected community.
  • Convenient Location: Just minutes from I-65, you can reach downtown Nashville quickly while enjoying the perks of suburban living.

Final Thoughts

When choosing a Nashville suburb, consider your lifestyle priorities. If you want historic charm, top schools, and a family-friendly vibe, Franklin is hard to beat. If you prefer a modern, walkable community with luxury amenities, McEwen Northside offers an unmatched experience.

McEwen Northside Apartments logo symbol

A luxury apartment community in Franklin, TN, featuring modern design and resort-inspired amenities.