But you don't have to give up your Nashville dreams. There are 15 affordable cities within 45 minutes of downtown where home prices start under $250,000. Some even rank among Nashville’s best suburbs. You can still get small-town charm with big-city access.

You could save $300,000+ on a home by moving just 20–30 minutes outside Nashville. That's serious money back in your pocket.

The Short List: 5 Cheapest Nashville Suburbs

• Dickson: Mid-$300s median sale price, 40-mile drive
• White Bluff: Mid-$300s median sale price, 30-mile drive
• La Vergne: Mid-$300s median sale price, 20-mile drive
• Columbia: High $300s/Low $400s median sale price, 45-mile drive
• Springfield: High $300s/Low $400s median sale price, 30-mile drive

Next on the list for affordability: Ashland City and White House (low $400s).

What Makes a Nashville Suburb Actually Affordable?

Living costs in Tennessee are influenced by a range of factors—it's not just about the home price on the listing. Smart buyers consider the total cost of suburban living.

The Real Numbers That Matter

The average Nashville home price is in the low $500s. Compare that to these suburban ranges:

• Cheapest suburbs: Mid-$200s to $300s
• Mid-range suburbs: Low-to-mid-$300s
• Higher-end affordable suburbs: Mid-$300s to $400s

That's up to $300,000+ in savings compared to Nashville proper!

Don't Forget These Hidden Costs

Living in the suburbs means you'll likely need a car. Gas, insurance, and maintenance add up. A 30-minute commute each way could cost about $200–$300 per month in gas alone.

Many suburban homes have HOA fees ranging from $50 to $500 per month. Tennessee property taxes vary greatly by county, but the rates in suburbs are often lower than those in Davidson County.

Consider a real example: a $500,000 home in Dickson, where the total property tax rate is 2.400, vs. one in Nashville, with a rate of 3.254.

• Dickson: $500K x .02400 = $12,000
• Nashville: $500K x .03254 = $16,270

For the same home, your tax bill in Dickson would be $4,270 less than in Nashville. That can translate to an extra mortgage payment each year, which could, in turn, save you thousands more in interest by paying your mortgage off faster.

The 15 Most Affordable Places to Live Near Nashville

Each of these suburbs offers something different. Find the one that fits your lifestyle and budget. And remember, more than just home prices impact affordability, and additional factors are accounted for in our rankings.

1. Dickson - $350,000 Median Home Price

Drive to Nashville: ~40 miles

Best for: Nature lovers who don't mind the drive

Dickson tops our list as the most affordable option with homes starting in the mid-$200s.

One of the best small towns in Tennessee, you'll find historic charm with modern conveniences. The Clement Railroad Hotel Museum showcases the town's railroad heritage. Montgomery Bell State Park has amazing hiking, fishing, and camping right in your backyard.

Most homes in Dickson are single-family houses with larger lots. New construction is available, but you'll find great deals on established neighborhoods, too.

2. La Vergne - $360,000 Median Home Price

Drive to Nashville: ~20 miles to downtown

Best for: First-time buyers who want convenience

La Vergne sits right next to Percy Priest Lake, giving you water access without waterfront prices. The location is hard to beat—you're close to downtown Nashville but far enough out to get more space for your money.

The area has several parks and recreational centers. Residents also appreciate the Rutherford County school district options. You'll find a mix of established neighborhoods and newer developments.

3. Watertown - $450,000 Median Home Price

Drive to Nashville: ~42 miles

Best for: Those who want small-town charm and maximum affordability

Watertown feels like stepping back in time. This small community offers the lowest cost of living on our list, but you'll trade convenience for savings. Most residents don't mind the longer drive because homes in Watertown start in the high $200s, with most homes topping out in the $600s.

The town has a strong community feel, with local events throughout the year. If you're looking for the most house for the minimum money, Watertown delivers.

4. Columbia - $400,000 Median Home Price

Drive to Nashville: ~45 miles

Best for: History lovers and those wanting larger properties

Columbia calls itself the "Antebellum Homes Capital of Tennessee." You'll find beautiful historic architecture mixed with modern amenities. Many homes here come with larger lots than you'd find closer to Nashville. Columbia is also one of the top affordable towns near Franklin.

On the low end, you’ll find prices in the $200s, but Columbia’s luxury homes can top $2 million.

The downtown area has been revitalized with local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The arts and music scene is growing, giving you entertainment options without the Nashville price tag.

5. Whites Creek - $475,000 Median Home Price

Drive to Nashville: ~12 miles

Best for: Commuters who want the shortest drive possible

Whites Creek offers the best of both worlds—affordable prices with a quick commute to downtown. An outer neighborhood of Nashville, it falls under the Davidson County umbrella. Residents benefit from Nashville’s schools, and you can be downtown in 15–20 minutes on most days.

The area is growing quickly due to its prime location. If you work downtown but want suburban living, this might be your perfect match. Home prices are rising here, so don't wait too long.

6. Goodlettsville - $425,000 Median Home Price

Drive to Nashville: ~15 miles

Best for: Job seekers and those looking for economic opportunity

Goodlettsville isn't just a bedroom community—it's an economic hub. Major corporations like Tyson Foods and Dollar General have headquarters here. That means job opportunities right in your backyard.

The area offers historic attractions like Mansker's Station and plenty of parks. You'll find established neighborhoods with mature trees alongside newer developments. Look for prices as low as the mid-to-upper $200s.

7. Smyrna - $425,000 Median Home Price

Drive to Nashville: ~25 miles

Best for: Active households who love recreation

Smyrna is on Percy Priest Lake, which provides easy access to boating, fishing, and water sports. This location has also helped to make Smyrna one of the best places to retire in Tennessee.

The town has invested heavily in parks and recreation facilities, including the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center.

Several 55+ communities have been built here, while golf courses and walking trails provide plenty of outdoor activities. Smyrna has a strong sense of town pride and hosts festivals throughout the year.

8. Murfreesboro - $500,000 Median Home Price

Drive to Nashville: ~35 miles

Best for: Those who crave college town energy and amenities

Murfreesboro is home to Middle Tennessee State University, giving the city a youthful energy. The college brings cultural events, restaurants, and entertainment you won't find in smaller suburbs.

This is Nashville's largest suburb and the sixth most populous city in Tennessee. Murfreesboro’s housing market is competitive because it offers so much. You'll find everything from starter homes in the upper $200s to luxury properties.

9. Spring Hill (Maury County) - $530,000 Median Home Price

Drive to Nashville: ~35 miles

Best for: Buyers wanting newer construction and nearby schools

Spring Hill straddles two counties, and location matters for pricing. The Maury County side offers more affordable options while still providing access to schools and new developments.

Homes in Spring Hill average around $530,000. The area has seen significant growth with new neighborhoods and shopping centers. The James K. Polk Museum and Rippavilla Plantation offer historic attractions, while the downtown area features local restaurants and shops.

Important note: The Williamson County side of Spring Hill is significantly more expensive due to the school district.

10. Lebanon - $550,000 Median Home Price

Drive to Nashville: ~33 miles

Best for: Those wanting economic growth

Lebanon has its own economic identity beyond being a Nashville suburb. The Wilson County Fairgrounds hosts events year-round, including the famous Wilson County Fair. Cumberland University adds educational opportunities to the community.

The area offers a mix of historic homes and new construction. Residents are a short drive away from both Old Hickory Lake and Percy Priest Lake. Among the homes in Lebanon, you'll find affordable housing options and some luxury properties.

The local economy is growing with retail, healthcare, and educational opportunities.

11. Gallatin - $550,000 Median Home Price

Drive to Nashville: ~30 miles

Best for: Water enthusiasts and history buffs

Gallatin is right alongside Old Hickory Lake, offering water activities and scenic views. The town has preserved its historic charm while adding modern amenities. Bledsoe Creek State Park provides camping, hiking, and lake access.

The historic town square features local shops and restaurants that enhance the Gallatin lifestyle. You'll find a good mix of housing in Gallatin, from lakefront properties to affordable neighborhoods with homes in the upper $200s further from the water.

12. Springfield - $400,000 Median Home Price

Drive to Nashville: ~30 miles

Best for: Those who prefer a rural feel with city access

Springfield offers small-town charm with easy access to larger cities, including Nashville. The downtown area has been revitalized with antique shops, local cafes, and specialty stores.Robertson County offers more space and lower population density.

The area appeals to those who want land and privacy while maintaining reasonable access to Nashville. You'll find both historic homes and new construction options.

13. White House - $410,000 Median Home Price

Drive to Nashville: ~25 miles

Best for: New construction home buyers

White House has experienced rapid growth with several major home builders creating new communities. Ryan Homes at Fields at Oakwood and Copes Crossing by Pulte Homes offer modern floor plans and amenities.

The city has invested in parks and recreation, including White House Municipal Park and Veterans Memorial Trailhead. If you want a brand-new home without custom home prices, White House has options.

14. White Bluff - $350,000 Median Home Price

Drive to Nashville: ~30 miles

Best for: Nature lovers and those who value larger lots

White Bluff offers rural charm with easy access to Montgomery Bell State Park—one of the best state parks near Nashville—and Cheatham Wildlife Management Area. The small-town atmosphere appeals to those wanting to escape city life while maintaining reasonable access to Nashville.

Most homes in White Bluff offer larger lots and more privacy than closer-in suburbs. The area attracts buyers looking for a quieter lifestyle and outdoor recreation opportunities.

15. Ashland City - $410,000 Median Home Price

Drive to Nashville: ~25 miles

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts and river lovers

Ashland City sits along the Cumberland River, offering water access and outdoor recreation. The area provides a small-town feel with natural beauty surrounding the community.

Cheatham County offers a lower population density and more space. Established neighborhoods with mature landscaping are alongside newer developments. The area appeals to those wanting outdoor activities and a slower pace of life.

The Real Trade-Offs of Suburban Living

Advantages of the Suburbs:

• More space for your money. A $300,000 budget gets you 2,000+ square feet in the suburbs vs. 1,200-square-foot condos in Nashville.
• Community feel. Smaller towns can have stronger community connections, local events, and neighborhood relationships.
• Access to nature. Most of these suburbs offer parks, lakes, or outdoor recreation within minutes of home.
• Lower daily costs. Groceries, dining, and entertainment typically cost less than downtown Nashville.

Disadvantages of the Suburbs:

• Longer commutes. Even the closest suburbs add 30+ minutes to your daily drive time. That's five-plus hours per week in the car.
• Fewer entertainment options. You won't have the restaurant variety, nightlife, or cultural events available in Nashville proper.
• Car dependency. Suburban living requires reliable transportation, and walking to dinner or work isn't realistic in most areas.
• Less spontaneity. Catching a show or meeting friends downtown requires planning and drive time.

Is Suburban Nashville Right For You?

Spend time in each suburb on weekends and evenings. Check out the local restaurants, shops, and parks. Do you feel comfortable here? Can you see yourself living in this community?

Talk to people at local coffee shops or grocery stores. They'll give you honest opinions about what it's really like to live there and help you determine whether a suburb offers the right flavor of Tennessee living for you.

If the opportunities of Nashville excite you, contact The Ashton Real Estate Group of RE/MAX Advantage with Nashville's MLS at (615) 603-3602 to get in touch with local real estate agents who can help find the perfect Nashville home for you today.