Where to Find Affordable Homes Near Nashville
If you’ve been searching for affordable Nashville suburbs, you’re not alone. As home prices in the city continue to rise, many buyers are looking beyond downtown for more space and better value. The good news? There are still great places near Nashville where you can buy a home without stretching your budget to the limit.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
- What makes a suburb affordable
- The best affordable Nashville suburbs for homebuyers
- The pros and cons of living outside the city
If you’re looking for a home near Nashville but need something within your budget, keep reading.
What Makes a Suburb Affordable?
Affordability isn’t just about home prices—it’s about what you’re actually getting for your money. When considering where to buy, here’s what matters most:
- Median home prices (January 2025 data)
- The average home price in Nashville is $822,906.
- Many affordable Nashville suburbs, like Madison ($394,832), Springfield ($380,560), and La Vergne ($410,992), offer homes at nearly half the price.
- Commute to Nashville
- Some suburbs, like Madison (15 minutes away) and La Vergne (25 minutes away), allow for an easy commute.
- Others, like Columbia and Clarksville (45+ minutes away), offer more space but require a longer drive.
- Cost of Living & Property Taxes
- Counties like Rutherford, Robertson, and Sumner tend to have lower property taxes than Davidson County.
- Daily expenses—gas, groceries, and utilities—also tend to be lower in suburban areas.
If you’re searching for a home in an affordable Nashville suburb, these communities offer the best balance of price, location, and quality of life.
Best Affordable Nashville Suburbs for Homebuyers
Madison, TN (Davidson County)
- Average Home Price (Jan 2025): $394,832
- Commute to Downtown: ~15 minutes
- Why Buy Here?
Madison is one of the few affordable Nashville suburbs still inside Davidson County. It’s a mix of older, established neighborhoods and newer developments, offering buyers a more budget-friendly option without leaving the city limits. It’s close to East Nashville, has a growing local restaurant scene, and provides easy access to downtown. Learn more about Madison, TN here.
La Vergne, TN (Rutherford County)
- Average Home Price (Jan 2025): $410,992
- Commute to Downtown: ~25 minutes
- Why Buy Here?
La Vergne is consistently ranked as one of the most affordable Nashville suburbs. It offers newer homes, strong local schools, and access to Percy Priest Lake, making it a great spot for families and first-time buyers looking for affordability without sacrificing convenience.
Smyrna, TN (Rutherford County)
- Average Home Price (Jan 2025): $463,951
- Commute to Downtown: ~30 minutes
- Why Buy Here?
Smyrna strikes a balance between affordability and amenities. With a strong job market, parks, and a great mix of new construction and established neighborhoods, it’s a growing area that still offers homes below Nashville prices.
Springfield, TN (Robertson County)
- Average Home Price (Jan 2025): $380,560
- Commute to Downtown: ~35 minutes
- Why Buy Here?
Springfield offers small-town charm, historic homes, and larger lots for those wanting more space. It’s one of the most affordable Nashville suburbs north of the city, perfect for those who don’t mind a slightly longer drive in exchange for better prices.
Columbia, TN (Maury County)
- Average Home Price: Varies, but more affordable than Williamson County
- Commute to Downtown: ~50 minutes
- Why Buy Here?
Columbia has a thriving downtown, affordable homes, and a growing job market. It’s one of the fastest-growing affordable Nashville suburbs, offering first-time buyers the opportunity to own a home without overpaying.
Clarksville, TN (Montgomery County)
- Average Home Price: Generally lower than Nashville
- Commute to Downtown: ~55 minutes
- Why Buy Here?
Clarksville is one of the most affordable cities in Tennessee, with a strong local economy and plenty of new construction. If you’re looking for an affordable alternative to Nashville, this city is worth considering.
Is Living in an Affordable Nashville Suburb the Right Move for You?
Buying outside of Nashville can save you a lot of money, but there are trade-offs. Here’s what you need to consider.
Pros of Living in the Suburbs
- More house for your money – You’ll get a bigger home and possibly new construction at a lower price.
- Lower property taxes – Counties like Robertson, Maury, and Montgomery have lower tax rates than Davidson County.
- Stronger community feel – Many suburban areas have tight-knit communities, farmers’ markets, and local events.
- More access to nature – Parks, hiking trails, and larger backyards are easier to find outside the city.
Cons of Living Further Out
- Longer commute – If you work in Nashville, commuting 45+ minutes each way can be tiring.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options – Small towns don’t always have as many restaurants or nightlife spots.
- More home maintenance – A bigger house and yard mean more upkeep.
- Resale might take longer – Homes in Nashville sell fast; further out, they may take longer to move.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy in an Affordable Nashville Suburb?
If you’re looking for a home in an affordable Nashville suburb, there are still great options that offer lower home prices, a strong community feel, and room to grow. The best suburb for you will depend on your commute, budget, and lifestyle goals.
If you’re ready to start your home search, I can help. Whether you want to be close to the city or find a quiet place with more space, let’s find the right fit for you.
