Wolfchase - Memphis, TN

After the signing of the Chickasaw Treaty in 1818, white settlers began moving into Tennessee. Farmers and plantation owners first settled in the area now called Appling. In 1829, Union Depot became the last stagecoach way station west of Nashville. In 1866, the nearly 100 residents of Union Depot incorporated into the city of Bartlett. The city remained relatively unscathed during the Civil War and didn't suffer any major destruction during the reconstruction years. A the city continued to grow, it eventually joined its neighbor Memphis, which had been founded to its west in 1819. Developed in the 1980s, the neighborhood of Appling lies between these two areas. Locals learn about area history at the Bartlett Historical Society Museum, and they embrace art and culture in the halls of Memphis museums, such as Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, or by watching plays at Theatre Memphis.

In Appling, restaurants sit along Highway-64, and the mostly low-priced options include burger, sub and pizza shops interspersed with a few Italian and ethnic eateries. Residents new to pho as well as those who've been eating it for years dine at Noodle Star. In spite of an unassuming and even boring interior, this restaurant serves top-notch authentic Vietnamese food and sushi. The homemade broth at this eatery doesn't feature any overpowering spices but rather a comforting blend of well-balanced flavors. In addition to pho and noodles, locals rave about the egg rolls, quail and dumplings. At the 1776 Deli and Eatery, locals enjoy deli sandwiches named to honor the forefathers. For a fresh treat, order the John Hancock, a sub topped with bacon, roast beef, lettuce, tomato provolone and mayo. For something extra special, come for the "date night" special — two entrees and a bucket of ammunition to use at the attached gun range. Ty's Smokehouse serves authentic BBQ at affordable prices. For lunch, enjoy a range of specials including pig tails and fries or smoked turkey and mac and cheese for less than $5, or come in the evening for some country-fried steak or rib tip burgers. Appling residents also rave about the Mojo Cafe. This eatery plays 80s music and serves dishes with anachronistic names such as Elvis treats. Diners cite the burgers topped with candied bacon as one of their favorites, but they also enjoy the tater tots covered in gravy and the fried catfish sandwiches. In the evening, sports bar and smoky pubs constitute the entertainment options in Appling. At Bubba's Ale House and Grille, sport fans munch on hamburgers and jalapeno poppers. Although the bar welcomes Titan's fans, most of it patrons cheer for the Packers. Cheeseheads even tailgate in front of this pub before big games air. Another local favorite, Hadley's Pub, serves up discount ribeye, and bands grace its stage with live music four nights per week. For something divine, order the fried cheese bites as an appetizer, follow it with one of Hadley's sandwiches and then dive into a homemade slice of cake for dessert.

In Appling, parking along residential streets costs nothing, and most businesses have parking lots for their customers' convenience. To reach downtown Memphis, drivers simply need to hop on Sam Cooper Boulevard. A bus runs through the neighborhood every 90 minutes, Monday through Friday, and it takes approximately 40 minutes to travel from Appliing to North downtown Memphis. Riders who need to reach Central Station should plan to transfer and spend 15 minutes on a second bus. Memphis boasts a growing bicycle culture, and Appling cyclists can reach downtown via the Shelby Farms Greenline Trail. Walkers find Appling relatively safe but not convenient. Cabs and Uber cars serve the area, but rather than trying to hail a car in the street, riders should call in advance.

Centrally located in Appling, Elmore Civic Park features playground equipment for the kids, and it also has a walking or jogging path for adults who want a workout. If your doggy needs some exercise, check out Shelby Farms Dog Park. This area has a large area for dogs to play off the leash, and it carries a positive reputation for attracting a responsible and friendly crowd of owners. For free outdoor fun, locals attend the annual Cordova Festival in September. Held in the open area near the Cordova Community Center, this festival has music, art and food vendors.

In Memphis, renters pay an average of $656 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, which goes for an average of $767 for a one-bedroom apartment, giving this area a higher cost of living than the metro area average. In Appling, you can find a pint of beer for $3. A bus ticket into the city costs less than $3 during rush hour, and gas station owners charge 12 percent less than the national average for a gallon of gas. Together, these elements work together to make Appling affordable.

In Appling, shoppers find a range of big box stores, large grocery stores, and supply stores on the main drag. Appling residents visit other parts of Memphis to find specialty shops, such as the Dean of Fashion, Celery Ladies' Upscale Resale, and Heather Boutique and Spa. At the Dean of Fashion, shoppers find fashions for full-figured women. The shop features cool pink walls and has old-school salon chairs scattered throughout. Get your hair braided or your toenails polished as you look for the perfect outfit. For shoppers who want Louis Vuitton, Prada, or other top labels at a discount, Memphis offers Celery Ladies' Upscale Resale, a women's consignment shop. Heather Boutique and Spa is like spending the day with an older sister. At Heather, visitors can choose from a range of spa experiences, natural skincare products, and designer clothing. For groceries, locals shop at large chains such as Kroger's and Aldi. If they crave local fruit and veggies, they head to the Bartlett Station Farmer's Market or to the farmers market at the Memphis Botanical Gardens.