Nashville has long been known as Music City, a place where country legends are made, and neon lights glow along Broadway. But as the city’s reputation has grown, so have its housing prices, making it harder for renters to find affordable options in the heart of town. Fortunately, the surrounding suburbs offer budget-friendly alternatives without sacrificing access to live music, great food, and new friends. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape, outdoor adventure, or a charming downtown, the 10 affordable Nashville suburbs featured below all deliver with their own particular charm.
Nashville’s housing market at a glance
Once upon a time, you could rent an apartment in Nashville without needing to auction off some family heirlooms. But as the city has grown—bringing in musicians, tech workers, and an alarming number of bachelorette parties—housing prices have shot up like a Morgan Wallen song climbing the charts. Luckily, not all hope is lost. Just outside the city, a handful of suburbs still offer reasonably priced rentals, plus the added bonus of fewer pedal taverns blocking traffic. Before we dive into 10 of the top affordable Nashville suburbs, take a quick look at what Nashville’s housing market looks like today.
Average 1-bedroom rent in Nashville |
$1,720 |
Average 2-bedroom rent in Nashville |
$2,015 |
Median home price in Nashville |
$455,000 |
1. Dickson
Dickson is a small-town retreat with a rich past and plenty of green space.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $900
- Distance from Nashville: 42 miles west
- Drive time to Nashville: About 45 minutes
With an average 1-bedroom rent of just $900, Dickson is the most affordable suburb on this list. The Clement Railroad Hotel Museum dives deep into local history, showcasing the town’s railroad roots and Civil War-era artifacts. For those who prefer the outdoors, Montgomery Bell State Park is great for hiking, fishing, and camping, making it an ideal spot for weekend getaways. Dickson delivers affordability with a dose of Tennessee charm.
2. Franklin
Franklin blends small-town beauty with a deep sense of history.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $950
- Distance from Nashville: 21 miles south
- Drive time to Nashville: About 25 minutes
At $950 per month for a 1-bedroom, Franklin is a rare find for those who love to be surrounded by history. Downtown Franklin is a picturesque hub of historic brick buildings, boutique shops, and restaurants that keep the town buzzing. The Carnton House provides a window into the past, with guided tours that highlight the town’s Civil War significance. Franklin feels like stepping back in time—but with modern conveniences never far away.
3. Clarksville
Clarksville offers a mix of military history, outdoor adventure, and a vibrant arts scene.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,082
- Distance from Nashville: 50 miles northwest
- Drive time to Nashville: About 55 minutes
With an average rent of $1,082 for a 1-bedroom, Clarksville is a great option for those seeking affordability with a strong community feel. Dunbar Cave State Park is a must-visit thanks to the guided cave tours and hiking trails through scenic landscapes. The Customs House Museum and Cultural Center showcases local art and history, it’s a cool way to get to know the suburb a bit better. Clarksville is a city in its own right, with enough to explore that you won’t need to rush back to Nashville.
4. Madison
Madison is a laid-back suburb that still keeps you close to the action.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,110
- Distance from Nashville: 9 miles north
- Drive time to Nashville: About 15 minutes
At about $1,110 per month for a 1-bedroom, Madison is a smart choice for renters who want to stay near Nashville without the high price tag. Amqui Station and Visitors Center, a restored train depot, offers a glimpse into the area’s railroad history, while Peeler Park provides scenic trails and river access. Madison is one of those rare suburbs that balances affordability, convenience, and a slower pace of life.
5. Hendersonville
Hendersonville is a dream for those who want to be near the water.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,226
- Distance from Nashville: 18 miles northeast
- Drive time to Nashville: About 25 minutes
With an average 1-bedroom rent of $1,226, Hendersonville offers easy access to Old Hickory Lake without breaking the bank. Drakes Creek Park is a favorite among locals, with sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas. Historic Rock Castle, one of the oldest homes in the state, adds a layer of history to the town’s appeal. Hendersonville is perfect for renters who love the outdoors but still want big city amenities relatively close by.
6. Hermitage
Hermitage is steeped in history but offers plenty of outdoor fun.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,257
- Distance from Nashville: 10 miles east
- Drive time to Nashville: About 15 minutes
With an average 1-bedroom rent of $1,257, Hermitage boasts a stellar balance of affordability and accessibility. The Hermitage, the former home of President Andrew Jackson, draws history buffs year-round. Long Hunter State Park provides miles of hiking trails, fishing holes, and camping areas, making it a staple of the suburb for nature lovers.
7. Old Hickory
Old Hickory is a peaceful suburb with a strong connection to the water.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,314
- Distance from Nashville: 13 miles northeast
- Drive time to Nashville: About 20 minutes
At $1,314 per month on average for a 1-bedroom, Old Hickory is a hidden gem for those who want to live lakeside. Old Hickory Lake is the town’s centerpiece, with boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities. Old Hickory Beach is a local favorite, providing a scenic spot for picnics and summer relaxation. This suburb offers an escape from the city’s fast pace while keeping you close enough to easily visit friends living in Nashville.
8. Spring Hill
Spring Hill is a fast-growing suburb that retains its historical charm.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,315
- Distance from Nashville: 35 miles south
- Drive time to Nashville: About 40 minutes
At $1,315 per month for a 1-bedroom, Spring Hill remains one of the more affordable Nashville suburbs. This charming town is full of historic homes and even has some new townhomes and apartments popping up. Evans Park provides sports facilities and walking trails, making it a great spot for young families and seasoned outdoorsy types alike.
9. Columbia
Columbia is a cool, creative town with a rich history.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,319
- Distance from Nashville: 46 miles south
- Drive time to Nashville: About 50 minutes
Averaging $1,319 for a 1-bedroom per month, Columbia is affordable and exudes a strong sense of community. The President James K. Polk Home and Museum provides insight into the life of the 11th U.S. president. The Columbia Arts District is a popular part of town thanks to its many galleries, local shops, and eateries. Columbia is a city on the rise, making it a great place for renters looking for a creative, welcoming community.
10. Antioch
Antioch is one of Nashville’s fastest-growing suburbs, offering affordability and convenience.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,332
- Distance from Nashville: 12 miles southeast
- Drive time to Nashville: About 18 minutes
With an average rent of $1,332, Antioch is a budget-friendly option for those who want quick access to downtown Nashville. Ford Ice Center is a major draw for sports fans as one of the practice facilities for the Nashville Predators. The Ice Center also offers public ice skating, hockey leagues, and figure skating programs. Thanks to its proximity to Nashville, Antioch has seen rapid development in recent years, making it an appealing choice for renters at all stages of life.
Find your new place in an affordable Nashville suburb
The most affordable Nashville suburbs offer an impressive variety of options, from lakeside retreats in Hendersonville to historic havens in Franklin. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure in Clarksville, small-town charm in Columbia, or the best of both worlds in Hermitage, there’s a suburb to fit your lifestyle and budget. The hardest part? Deciding which one to call home.
Affordability is based on whether a suburb’s one-bedroom rent was less than Nashville’s average rent and under 55 miles from downtown Nashville. Average rental data from Nashville rental market trends in January, 2025. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
