Crank up the volume – you’re heading to the Music City! With live shows every night, skyline views, and Southern cooking on every corner, Nashville offers a one-of-a-kind living experience full of adventure, community, and, of course, music.
Whether you’re drawn to Nashville for its career opportunities, creative scene, or signature Southern flair, it’s important to find the right neighborhood for your wants and needs. However, with so many unique communities to choose from, narrowing it down can feel overwhelming. So, before you sign a lease and lace up your cowboy boots, take a look at five of the best neighborhoods in Nashville for renters.
The five best neighborhoods in Nashville for renters are:
Germantown
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Nashville: $1,655/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Germantown: $1,863/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Germantown: 717 square feet
Why Germantown is good for renters
Germantown sits just north of downtown Nashville and spans about 18 historic blocks, making it one of the city’s most walkable neighborhoods. Once home to German craftsmen in the 1850s, today it blends restored Victorian architecture with sleek new apartment buildings. The neighborhood is also a foodie’s dream, packed with brunch spots, artisan bakeries, and upscale dining all within a short stroll. With modern 1-bedroom units averaging around 720 square feet, Germantown offers renters a stylish mix of city energy and neighborhood charm.
Keep in mind
Because of its proximity and popularity, rents tend to be higher than in more outlying neighborhoods, and availability may move quickly.
The Gulch
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Nashville: $1,655/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in The Gulch: $2,063/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in The Gulch: 753 square feet
Why The Gulch is good for renters
If you want a trendy, upscale neighborhood with nightlife, high-end dining, and walking distance to many amenities, The Gulch stands out. This centrally located hotspot is known for its sleek high-rises, modern apartments, and easy access to high-end dining, nightlife, and boutique shopping. From rooftop lounges to some of Nashville’s most Instagram-worthy murals, The Gulch delivers a polished, walkable environment tailor-made for the ultimate urban lifestyle.
Keep in mind
The cost is substantially higher compared with many Nashville neighborhoods, so the budget threshold is steeper. Also, unit sizes in the premium spectrum may still be moderate (~750 sq ft) despite the price.
Hillsboro Village
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Nashville: $1,655/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Hillsboro Village: $1,332/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Hillsboro Village: 769 square feet
Why Hillsboro Village is good for renters
Hillsboro Village offers a charming, college-town-adjacent vibe near Vanderbilt and Belmont Universities, with cozy streets full of independent shops, cafés, and local staples like the Belcourt Theatre. The area blends historic architecture with newer mixed-use buildings, giving it a stylish yet laid-back feel. It’s one of Nashville’s most walkable neighborhoods, offering renters a strong sense of community just minutes from downtown. Hillsboro Village delivers the feel of being near the action, but with its own distinct neighborhood flavor.
Keep in mind
Because it’s smaller and less voluminous in terms of large apartment communities compared with downtown, your choices may be more limited, and pricing may vary widely depending on building and finish.
The Nations
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Nashville: $1,655/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in The Nations: $1,661/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in The Nations: 707 square feet
Why The Nations is good for renters
Located in West Nashville, The Nations has transformed from an industrial area into one of the city’s most creative and fast-growing neighborhoods. Known for its colorful murals, local breweries, and revitalized streets, it offers renters a unique mix of urban grit and modern style. The neighborhood features updated townhomes, mid-rise apartments, and plenty of green space, including easy access to the nearby Cumberland River. With slightly lower rent prices than trendier downtown spots and a laid-back, artsy atmosphere, The Nations is a solid pick for renters who want character, value, and room to grow.
Keep in mind
Being slightly further out, you may face a longer commute to downtown or main job hubs, and have fewer luxury amenities compared with neighborhoods like The Gulch.
Green Hills
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Nashville: $1,655/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Green Hills: $1,937/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Green Hills: 752 square feet
Why Green Hills is good for renters
Green Hills is a polished, suburban-feeling neighborhood known for its upscale shopping and spacious rental options. Home to The Mall at Green Hills—featuring brands like Nordstrom, Apple, and Louis Vuitton—it offers a premier retail experience just 15 minutes from downtown. Renters also enjoy close proximity to restaurants, coffee shops, and well-maintained parks, all within a quiet, residential setting. With newer apartment communities and larger floor plans, Green Hills is ideal for those who want a little more room without giving up convenience.
Keep in mind
Though more moderate than premium downtown neighborhoods, rent is still above many outer-ring or less central areas; you’ll want to budget accordingly.
Explore Apartments for Rent in Nashville on Apartments.com
Ready to explore apartments for rent in Nashville? Start your search on Apartments.com! Whether you’re drawn to the collegiate energy of Hillsboro Village or the upscale feel of The Gulch, your perfect home awaits in the Music City!
Use our advanced search filters to narrow down Nashville listings by price, square footage, amenities, and more. Doing so will streamline your search and get you just one step closer to starting your next chapter in Nashville.
This guide to the best neighborhoods in Nashville for renters is based on data and insights from CoStar Group, including rental availability, average one-bedroom rent prices relative to the citywide average, and average unit sizes as of November 2025. Neighborhoods were selected by evaluating key lifestyle factors such as walkability, access to public transportation, proximity to parks and cultural destinations, and overall renter appeal. Each pick offers unique strengths, making it easier for renters to find the right fit based on their individual preferences and priorities.
FAQs
Is Nashville a good place to live?
Yes, Nashville is a good choice for renters who value a lively music and cultural scene, growing job opportunities, and a mix of urban and residential living options.
Is Nashville an expensive place to live?
Compared with many U.S. cities, Nashville is moderately expensive. Rent and cost of living are above national averages, especially in popular neighborhoods. You’ll pay a premium for central, trendy areas, while some outer neighborhoods may offer more value.
What’s the average rent in Nashville?
The average rent in Nashville is about $1,655 per month as of November 2025.
What salary do I need to live in Nashville?
To live comfortably in Nashville, renters should make $5,516 per month or $66,192 per year. This ensures you don’t spend more than 30% of your monthly income on rent.
