10 Reasons to Move to Nashville, TN In Your 20s

Are you in your 20s and considering a move to a vibrant and growing city? Nashville, Tennessee might just be the perfect destination for you. 

Over the past decade, Nashville has been experiencing a population boom, with many young professionals and creatives flocking to the city for its job opportunities, affordable cost of living, and thriving music and arts scene.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 reasons why Nashville is one of our best places to live in your 20s. From job opportunities to outdoor activities to food and drink culture, Nashville offers a little something for everyone. 

By the end of this article, we hope you’ll be convinced that Nashville is the perfect place to live, work, and play in your 20s.

1. Job Opportunities

Nashville is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, and with growth comes job opportunities. The city has a diverse range of industries that are thriving, including healthcare, education, technology, and finance. This means that regardless of your career path, Nashville likely has something to offer you.

One of the biggest draws of Nashville is its booming healthcare industry. Nashville is home to the largest healthcare industry in the United States, and it continues to grow at a rapid pace. 

Major healthcare companies such as HCA Healthcare and Community Health Systems are headquartered in Nashville, along with a plethora of other healthcare-related businesses. This makes Nashville a great destination for those in the healthcare field, whether you’re a nurse, doctor, or healthcare administrator.

Another growing industry in Nashville is technology. With the recent influx of tech companies, Nashville is quickly becoming known as a “Silicon Valley of the South.” Companies like Asurion, SmileDirectClub, and Eventbrite have recently opened offices in Nashville, creating a wealth of job opportunities for those in the tech industry.

If you’re interested in education, Nashville is home to many colleges and universities, including Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, and Tennessee State University. These institutions offer a variety of academic programs, from business to music to engineering, and they provide a wealth of job opportunities for those in the education field.

Overall, Nashville offers a diverse range of job opportunities across many industries, making it an attractive destination for young professionals in their 20s who are looking to jumpstart their careers.

2. Music Scene

When you think of Nashville, the first thing that comes to mind is likely its rich music history. Nashville is known as the “Music City,” and for good reason. The city has been a hub for the music industry for decades, and it continues to be a major player in the industry today.

One of the biggest draws of Nashville’s music scene is the live music. The city is home to hundreds of venues, ranging from intimate singer-songwriter spots to massive arenas that host some of the biggest names in music. Whether you’re a fan of country music or rock, jazz or blues, there’s a venue in Nashville that caters to your tastes.

In addition to live music, Nashville is also home to a variety of music-related attractions. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a must-visit for any music lover, offering a comprehensive look at the history of country music. 

The Ryman Auditorium, often called the “Mother Church of Country Music,” is another iconic music destination in Nashville, known for its incredible acoustics and historic performances.

But Nashville’s music scene isn’t just about the past. The city is also home to a thriving community of musicians and songwriters who are shaping the future of the industry. 

Whether you’re looking to break into the music industry yourself or simply want to be surrounded by like-minded music lovers, Nashville is the perfect destination.

From live music to music-related attractions to a supportive community of musicians and creatives, Nashville is the perfect place to immerse yourself in all things music.

3. Affordable Cost of Living

One of the biggest draws of Nashville for young people in their 20s is its affordable cost of living. Compared to other major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, Nashville is much more affordable, making it an attractive destination for young professionals who are just starting out.

Housing is one of the biggest expenses for most people, and in Nashville, there are plenty of affordable housing options. Whether you’re looking for an apartment in the city or a house in the suburbs, there are plenty of options that won’t break the bank. 

In addition, the cost of groceries, transportation, and entertainment in Nashville is also relatively low, making it easy to live comfortably on a budget.

One of the reasons that Nashville is so affordable is its lack of state income tax. Tennessee is one of only nine states in the United States that does not levy a state income tax, meaning that you’ll be able to keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket.

Overall, the affordable cost of living in Nashville is a major draw for young people who are looking to make the most of their salaries and build a life without breaking the bank. With affordable housing options and a low cost of living, Nashville is the perfect destination for young professionals who are just starting out.

4. Outdoor Activities

Nashville is known for its bustling city life, but it’s also home to a variety of outdoor activities that are perfect for young people in their 20s who love to explore the great outdoors. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, or water sports, Nashville has something to offer.

One of the biggest draws for outdoor enthusiasts in Nashville is the city’s abundance of parks and green spaces. Centennial Park, located just outside of downtown, is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. 

The park features walking trails, a lake, and the iconic Parthenon replica. Percy Warner Park and Edwin Warner Park offer hiking trails and picnic areas, as well as scenic views of the city.

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, Nashville is also home to several lakes and rivers that are perfect for water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. 

The Harpeth River and the Cumberland River are both popular spots for water sports, with several outfitters in the area that offer rentals and guided tours.

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, Nashville has plenty of biking and hiking trails. The Music City Bikeway is a 26-mile trail that winds through the city, offering scenic views of the Cumberland River and downtown Nashville. 

The nearby Natchez Trace Parkway is another popular destination for cyclists and hikers, with over 440 miles of trails and historic sites to explore.

Nashville’s abundance of outdoor activities is a major draw for young people who love to stay active and explore the great outdoors. With parks, lakes, and trails to explore, Nashville is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts in their 20s.

5. Food and Drink Scene

Nashville’s food and drink scene is rapidly growing and becoming a major draw for young people in their 20s. The city is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and breweries that cater to a diverse range of tastes and preferences.

One of the most iconic dishes in Nashville is hot chicken. This spicy fried chicken dish is a Nashville staple, and you can find it at restaurants and food trucks throughout the city. 

Hattie B’s and Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack are two of the most popular hot chicken spots in Nashville, but there are plenty of other options to choose from as well.

But Nashville’s food scene is more than just hot chicken. The city is home to a variety of cuisines, from barbecue to sushi to Italian. The Germantown neighborhood is known for its upscale dining options, while East Nashville is home to several trendy restaurants and bars. 

No matter what your taste buds are craving, Nashville has something to offer.

In addition to its food scene, Nashville is also home to a thriving craft beer industry. The city has over 30 breweries, ranging from large-scale operations to small, independent breweries. 

Many of these breweries offer tours and tastings, making them a popular destination for young people in their 20s who are looking for a fun and unique experience.

Overall, Nashville’s food and drink scene is a major draw for young people who are looking for a vibrant and diverse culinary culture. From hot chicken to craft beer to upscale dining, Nashville has something for every taste and budget.

6. Southern Hospitality

One of the things that sets Nashville apart from other cities is its reputation for southern hospitality. Nashville locals are known for their friendliness and welcoming nature, making it easy for young people in their 20s to feel at home in the city.

Southern hospitality is more than just a stereotype – it’s a way of life in Nashville. Locals are quick to strike up a conversation and offer a helping hand to those in need. This welcoming culture makes it easy for newcomers to feel like they’re a part of the community, even if they’ve only been in the city for a short time.

One of the benefits of southern hospitality is the sense of community that it fosters. Nashville is a tight-knit community, and locals are quick to welcome newcomers into the fold. This makes it easy to make new friends and form connections, whether you’re at work, out at a bar, or exploring the city.

Overall, southern hospitality is a major draw for young people in their 20s who are looking for a welcoming and supportive community. Whether you’re a native southerner or a transplant from another part of the country, Nashville’s friendly culture makes it easy to feel at home in the city.

7. Arts and Culture

Nashville is not just a city of music, but also a city of arts and culture. From museums to galleries to theaters, there is always something to see and experience in Nashville.

One of the most notable cultural attractions in Nashville is the Frist Art Museum. Located in downtown Nashville, the Frist is known for its rotating exhibitions of contemporary art and its educational programs for all ages. The museum is housed in a beautiful Art Deco building that was once the city’s main post office.

In addition to the Frist, Nashville is home to a variety of galleries and art studios that showcase the work of local and national artists. The Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood is known for its art scene, with several galleries and studios that are open to the public on the first Saturday of every month.

Nashville is also home to a thriving theater scene, with several theaters and performance spaces throughout the city. The Tennessee Performing Arts Center is the largest theater in Nashville, hosting Broadway shows, musical performances, and comedy shows throughout the year.

Overall, Nashville’s arts and culture scene is a major draw for young people who are looking to experience something new and enriching. 

8. Sports

Sports fans in Nashville have plenty to cheer about. The city is home to several professional and college sports teams, including the Tennessee Titans (NFL), Nashville Predators (NHL), and Nashville SC (MLS).

The Titans are one of the most beloved sports teams in Nashville, with a loyal fan base that fills Nissan Stadium on game days. The team has a rich history in Nashville, dating back to its days as the Houston Oilers in the 1960s.

The Predators are another popular sports team in Nashville, known for their passionate fans and high-energy games. The team has made several deep playoff runs in recent years, including a trip to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2017.

In addition to professional sports, Nashville is also home to several college sports teams, including the Vanderbilt Commodores and the Tennessee State Tigers. These teams offer a more affordable option for sports fans who want to catch a game without breaking the bank.

Overall, Nashville’s sports scene is a major draw for young people in their 20s who are looking to root for their favorite teams and be a part of a passionate fan community. With professional and college teams to support, Nashville is the perfect destination for sports fans of all stripes.

9. Education

Nashville is home to several top-notch colleges and universities, making it an attractive destination for young people who are interested in pursuing higher education. From prestigious private universities to well-respected public institutions, Nashville has something to offer students of all backgrounds and academic interests.

One of the most well-known universities in Nashville is Vanderbilt University. Founded in 1873, Vanderbilt is a private research university that is consistently ranked among the top 20 universities in the United States. 

The university is known for its strong programs in medicine, engineering, and law, as well as its commitment to undergraduate education.

Another top-tier university in Nashville is Belmont University. Belmont is a private liberal arts university that is known for its music and performing arts programs. The university is located in the heart of Nashville and has a strong reputation for its hands-on approach to education.

In addition to these prestigious universities, Nashville is also home to several other colleges and universities, including Tennessee State University, Lipscomb University, and Fisk University. 

These institutions offer a variety of academic programs, from business to music to education.

Nashville’s strong education system is a major draw for young people in their 20s who are looking to further their education and pursue their academic interests. With top-tier universities and a variety of academic programs to choose from, Nashville is the perfect destination for students who are looking to build a strong foundation for their future careers.

10. Community

Nashville is known for its strong sense of community, which is a major draw for young people in their 20s who are looking for a supportive and welcoming environment. 

Whether you’re a newcomer to the city or a lifelong resident, Nashville’s tight-knit community makes it easy to feel like you’re a part of something special.

One of the reasons that Nashville has such a strong sense of community is its size. Unlike other major cities like New York or Los Angeles, Nashville has a more manageable size, which makes it easier for residents to get to know each other and form connections. 

Whether you’re out at a bar or attending a community event, there’s always an opportunity to meet new people and build relationships.

In addition to its size, Nashville’s community is also defined by its culture of giving back. The city has a strong tradition of philanthropy and community service, with many residents volunteering their time and resources to support local organizations and causes.

Overall, Nashville’s strong sense of community is a major draw for young people who are looking to build relationships and make a difference in the world around them. Whether you’re looking to get involved in a community organization or simply want to be surrounded by friendly and welcoming people, Nashville is the perfect destination for young professionals who are looking for a supportive and tight-knit community.

Nashville, TN is a vibrant and dynamic city that offers young people in their 20s a wide range of opportunities and experiences. From its thriving job market to its rich music and arts culture, there are countless reasons to consider moving to Nashville.

One of the biggest draws of Nashville is its affordability. Compared to other major cities in the United States, Nashville offers a relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for young professionals who are just starting out. Housing is affordable, and the lack of state income tax means that residents can keep more of their hard-earned money.

Nashville’s music scene is another major draw for young people. The city has a rich musical history, and it continues to be a major player in the industry today. From live music to music-related attractions to a supportive community of musicians and creatives, Nashville is the perfect place to immerse yourself in all things music.

In addition to its music scene, Nashville is also home to a variety of outdoor activities, including parks, lakes, and biking and hiking trails. The city’s food and drink scene is also rapidly growing, with a diverse range of cuisines and craft breweries to choose from.

Nashville’s strong sense of community is another major draw for young people. The city has a tight-knit community that is defined by its culture of giving back and its welcoming and friendly residents.

Nashville is a city that offers young people in their 20s a wide range of opportunities and experiences. Whether you’re looking to further your education, start a new job, or simply immerse yourself in a vibrant and dynamic community, Nashville is the perfect destination for young professionals who are looking to make the most of their 20s.