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Renting in Nashville? Discover the 11 most affordable Nashville suburbs to rent in 2024.
Nashville has undeniable allure as a hub for music, culture and vibrant nightlife. But living in the city may come with a hefty price tag. And you may be wondering how much rent costs in Nashville. On average, the monthly rent is $1,719 for a studio, $1,904 for a one-bedroom unit and $2,456 for a two-bedroom unit. If you’re looking to rent in the Nashville area, these prices may not fit into your budget.
In this article, we’re here to show you 11 of the most affordable Nashville suburbs to consider renting in this year. These charming suburbs offer a harmonious blend of tranquility and affordability while remaining close enough to explore Nashville’s lively city center.
#1: Dickson
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $860
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,000
Distance from Nashville: 42 miles
Apartments for rent in Dickson
Claiming the first place on our list of affordable Nashville suburbs is Dickson. About 42 miles west of Nashville, it’s a little farther from the city center. However, the rent is significantly less expensive, and you can save around $900 on a one-bedroom unit in Dickson. If you’re checking out Dickson, explore the downtown area, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and museums like the Clement Railroad Hotel Museum.
#2: Goodlettsville
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,224
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,544
Distance from Nashville: 15 miles
Apartments for rent in Goodlettsville
Just 15 miles north of Nashville is our second suburb, Goodlettsville. The area is home to about 17,300 residents, and the average rents are much less than in Nashville. For example, a one-bedroom unit in Goodlettsville costs $1,224 compared to $1,904 in Nashville. In Goodlettsville, you can find the scenic Moss-Wright Park, which offers spots for picnicking and hiking trails. You can also explore the nearby Antique District, where you can browse unique shops and discover vintage treasures, making it a charming spot for antique enthusiasts and shoppers.
#3: Spring Hill
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,290
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,524
Distance from Nashville: 33 miles
Apartments for rent in Spring Hill
For those on the hunt for budget-friendly suburban living near Nashville, Spring Hill is 33 miles to the south. The rental prices are great as the average rent for a one-bedroom unit is $1,290, compared to Nashville’s $1,904 rent. There is plenty of history in Spring Hill to explore. For example, you can tour Rippa Villa, a historic site offering tours of a Greek Revival mansion and beautiful gardens that provide a glimpse into the area’s rich history. For something outdoors, make sure to visit Harvey Park, where you can enjoy outdoor activities, including picnicking, walking trails and a playground. All these features and more make Spring Hill a stand-out among affordable Nashville suburbs.
#4: Lebanon
Average rent for a studio: $1,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,364
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,547
Distance from Nashville: 32 miles
Apartments for rent in Lebanon
Lebanon, though a little farther from Nashville at about 32 miles to the east, offers an affordable option for renters. The added commute time may be justified, as the average rent for a one-bedroom costs about $540 less than in Nashville. In Lebanon, you can explore the picturesque Cedars of Lebanon State Park, providing hiking trails, picnicking and opportunities for birdwatching amid the scenic woodlands. The city also hosts the annual Wilson County Fair, one of the state’s largest county fairs, featuring rides, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits and a wide range of activities.
#5: Smyrna
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,387
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,497
Distance from Nashville: 23 miles
Apartments for rent in Smyrna
About 23 miles southeast of Nashville, you’ll find the suburb of Smyrna, another great area to add to your list. Smyrna has about 55,500 residents — a great alternative to Nashville’s bustling atmosphere. Smyrna is home to the serene Sharp Springs Park, which offers walking trails, fishing and a beautiful lake for outdoor recreation and relaxation. You can also find the Sam Davis Home and Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area and the life of Civil War soldier Sam Davis.
#6: Gallatin
Average rent for a studio: $825
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,394
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,704
Distance from Nashville: 30 miles
Apartments for rent in Gallatin
Gallatin is the sixth spot on our list and is a well-known affordable Nashville suburb. The area has about 46,900 residents, making it feel more like a small town. Gallatin is known for Bledsoe Creek State Park, which offers boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities amidst the stunning natural surroundings of Old Hickory Lake. The town is also home to the Sumner County Museum, showcasing the history and culture of the region through a collection of artifacts and exhibits.
#7: Murfreesboro
Average rent for a studio: $1,459
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,404
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,628
Distance from from Nashville: 35 miles
Apartments for rent in Murfreesboro
Seventh on our list of renter-friendly Nashville suburbs is Murfreesboro. It’s about 35 miles southeast of downtown Nashville, but the rent prices are much less. Murfreesboro is known for its Civil War History, so you’ll find plenty of historic sites like Stones River National Battlefield and Oaklands Mansion. You can also find a variety of museums in town, like the Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, Cannonsburgh Village and the Middle Tennessee Museum of Natural History. All these attractions at a great value make Murfreesboro an intuitive pick for affordable Nashville suburbs, no matter who you ask.
#8: Columbia
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,444
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,491
Distance from Nashville: 45 miles
Apartments for rent in Columbia
If you’re a Nashville local, you’re probably familiar with Columbia. The rents in Columbia average $1,444 for a one-bedroom unit and $1,491 for a two-bedroom unit, so you’re still saving compared to Nashville. Columbia also has plenty of activities for its residents to enjoy. You can see a glimpse into history at the James K. Polk Home and Museum, where you can tour the 11th U.S. President’s ancestral home and learn about his life and legacy. For some time spent outside, check out Maury County Park, which has walking trails, a dog park and various sports facilities.
#9: Mount Juliet
Average rent for a studio: $1,689
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,581
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,939
Distance from Nashville: 20 miles
Apartments for rent in Mount Juliet
The Mount Juliet area is home to about 40,800 people and is about 20 miles east of downtown Nashville. Mount Juliet has countless outdoor activities to explore on any given day. You can visit Charlie Daniels Park, with playgrounds, walking trails and sports facilities. The area is also home to Cedar Creek Campground along the Cumberland River.
#10: Franklin
Average rent for a studio: $2,055
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,824
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $2,188
Distance from Nashville: 22 miles
Apartments for rent in Franklin
Franklin secures the 10th position on our list of affordable Nashville suburbs to consider for renting an apartment this year. This suburb has a population of 85,500 and is roughly 22 miles south of Nashville. You can tour the historic Carnton House and learn the Civil War history in Franklin. The town’s downtown district is known for its charming shops, restaurants and live music venues, providing a delightful blend of culture, cuisine and entertainment. You’ll have plenty of activities to explore while living in this charming, upscale town.
#11. Hendersonville
Average rent for a one-bedroom: $1,878
Average rent for a two-bedroom: $1,429
Distance from Nashville: 18 miles
Apartments for rent in Hendersonville
Hendersonville is the 11th and final affordable Nashville suburb on our list. You’ll find Hendersonville, situated about 18 miles northeast of downtown. Commute times can vary depending on traffic, but you’ll still save on rent costs. Hendersonville offers access to the Cumberland River, where you can enjoy boating, fishing and picnicking in a beautiful natural setting.
You can also find Rockland Recreation Area, an awesome area for outdoor activities, like hiking and relaxing by the lake, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. For those looking to see a slice of history, be sure to stop by Historic Rock Castle, a 1700s pioneer home.
If you’re looking to take the leap from renter to buyer, make sure to also check out the most affordable Nashville suburbs to buy a home.
Methodology
When finding the most affordable Nashville suburbs, affordability was based on whether a suburb’s one and two-bedroom rent was less than Nashville and under 45 miles from downtown Nashville. Average rental data from Nashville rental market trends on October 26, 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
Source: rent.com