10 Best Nashville Area Towns to Buy a Starter Home
Last Updated on April 18, 2025 by Patricia Omishakin
For first-time homebuyers, choosing the right place to live is one of the biggest decisions. The greater Nashville area has many incredible towns and neighborhoods, each offering unique benefits. Whether you prioritize commute time, school districts, entertainment options, or affordability, there’s a perfect spot for you.
To help you get started, here’s a breakdown of the 10 best towns near Nashville for first-time homebuyers.
1. Smyrna
Smyrna is a fantastic choice for first-time buyers looking for affordability and convenience. Located about 25 minutes from downtown Nashville, this growing town offers a mix of single-family homes, new construction, and townhomes at competitive prices. With great schools, parks, and a thriving local scene, Smyrna provides a welcoming suburban feel with easy access to the city.
Why Buy Here?
✔️ Strong job market
✔️ Affordable home prices
✔️ Proximity to I-24 for quick commutes
2. La Vergne
Just next to Smyrna, La Vergne is another affordable option for first-time homebuyers. It offers newer subdivisions, access to Percy Priest Lake, and a strong sense of community. La Vergne is also known for its lower property taxes compared to some other Nashville suburbs.
Why Buy Here?
✔️ Affordable home prices
✔️ Close to Nashville (about 20 minutes)
✔️ Strong community feel
3. Woodbury
Woodbury is a small town east of Murfreesboro that offers peaceful, small-town living with an easy commute to the city. It’s an excellent choice for first-time buyers looking for affordability and scenic beauty. With charming historic homes, new construction options, and wide-open spaces, Woodbury is perfect for those wanting a little more room to breathe.
Why Buy Here?
✔️ Lower home prices than many suburbs
✔️ Beautiful countryside views
✔️ Strong sense of community
4. Shelbyville
Shelbyville, located about an hour south of Nashville, is known for its rich history, friendly community, and affordable housing market. First-time buyers can find a mix of historic homes, newer developments, and rural properties at lower prices than in many other areas. Shelbyville also hosts the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, making it a unique town with deep-rooted traditions.
Why Buy Here?
✔️ Lower cost of living
✔️ Strong job market in manufacturing and agriculture
✔️ Growing real estate market
5. Gallatin
Gallatin is a beautiful, historic town about 30 miles northeast of Nashville. It’s ideal for buyers looking for more space and lower home prices while still being close to the city. The area offers a mix of charming older homes and newer developments, plus great lakefront properties near Old Hickory Lake.
Why Buy Here?
✔️ Affordable cost of living
✔️ Scenic outdoor spaces
✔️ Growing job market
6. Lebanon
Lebanon is a hidden gem for first-time homebuyers looking for affordability and space. Located about 30 minutes east of Nashville, it offers a mix of historic homes, new construction, and farmland properties. The town is also home to Cumberland University and has a growing downtown scene.
Why Buy Here?
✔️ More affordable than Nashville suburbs
✔️ Easy access to I-40 and the Music City Star commuter train
✔️ A mix of small-town charm and growth
7. Columbia
If you’re looking for a town with charm, affordability, and a growing local scene, Columbia should be on your list! Known for its historic downtown, Columbia is about 45 minutes south of Nashville and offers a variety of home styles, from historic bungalows to new builds.
Why Buy Here?
✔️ Affordable home prices
✔️ Walkable downtown with shops and restaurants
✔️ Strong sense of community
8. Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill is a small but growing town located about 45 minutes south of Nashville. It’s perfect for first-time buyers who want to escape the busyness of the city while still having easy access to major highways. The town is known for its low cost of living, strong schools, and friendly atmosphere.
Why Buy Here?
✔️ Affordable starter homes
✔️ Small-town feel with easy city access
✔️ Close-knit community
9. Clarksville
Clarksville is one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing cities and offers first-time buyers an excellent mix of affordability, job opportunities, and entertainment. Located about an hour northwest of Nashville, Clarksville is home to Fort Campbell and Austin Peay State University, bringing in a diverse and vibrant community.
Why Buy Here?
✔️ Affordable home prices compared to Nashville
✔️ Strong job market, especially in military and education sectors
✔️ Plenty of parks, shopping, and entertainment options
10. Dickson
Located about 45 minutes west of Nashville, Dickson is a great option for first-time buyers looking for affordability and space. Home prices are lower than in other nearby suburbs, and the town offers a mix of older homes, new developments, and rural properties.
Why Buy Here?
✔️ Affordable home prices
✔️ Growing job market
✔️ Easy access to I-40
Key Takeaways
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but choosing the right location is just as important as finding the right house. The Nashville area offers plenty of great options, from bustling suburban towns to peaceful communities with more space.
If you’re ready to buy a home, working with an experienced local real estate agent will help you navigate the process and find the perfect fit for your needs.
💚 Looking to buy your first home near Nashville? Call or text me at 615-730-0037—I’d love to help you find the perfect place to call home! #CallPatToChat
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