Buying a home near Nashville? Prices are wild, but there are still budget-friendly neighborhoods near Nashville where you don’t have to sell a kidney to afford a house.
First-time home buyers want value. You want a solid investment, good schools, and a place that won’t drain your bank account every month. I hear you. The good news? There are still places out there where you can plant your roots without going broke.
Why Nashville’s Getting So Pricey
Here’s the thing—Nashville exploded. Everyone and their cousin wants a spot here. Tech companies, entrepreneurs, musicians, remote workers—it’s a melting pot. But that also means home prices have skyrocketed. The days of grabbing a cheap house in East Nashville? Gone. Now, if you’re set on finding something affordable near Nashville, you need to look in the right places. You’re not alone—plenty of first-time home buyers are asking the same questions.
Affordable Neighborhoods Near Nashville for First-Time Buyers
1. Madison
Madison is one of those spots where people are still sleeping on the value. Just 15 minutes north of downtown Nashville, it’s got solid homes at way better prices compared to the rest of the city.
Why Madison?
- Home prices are lower than East and West Nashville.
- Access to Gallatin Pike means you’re close to shopping, restaurants, and parks.
- Bonus: The music scene is slowly creeping in thanks to the affordability.
Average Home Price: Around $350,000 (Still way less than what you’ll pay closer to downtown.)
2. Antioch
Antioch has had a reputation in the past, but let’s be real—it has improved BIG TIME. More families are moving in, developers are paying attention, and homes are still relatively cheap.
Why Antioch?
- Seen as ‘up and coming,’ but still affordable.
- 15-20 minutes from downtown depending on traffic.
- Close to Percy Priest Lake—great if you like the outdoors.
Average Home Price: Around $330,000
3. Donelson
Donelson is one of those areas that’s getting hotter, but you can still land a starter home without insane bidding wars.
Why Donelson?
- Close to both downtown and the airport (travelers, take note).
- The Music City Star commuter train runs here, which is rare in Nashville.
- Tons of parks, bars, and restaurants—young professionals love this place.
Average Home Price: Around $370,000
How to Know If a Neighborhood Fits Your Budget
Here’s where a lot of first-time buyers mess up—they only look at the home price. But there’s more to affordability than just the number on Zillow.
Pay attention to:
- Property taxes: Some areas look cheap but tax rates will eat you alive.
- Homeowners insurance: Older homes may have higher premiums.
- HOA fees: Hidden fees that can turn a cheap home into an expensive one.
- Commute costs: If gas prices shoot up, will you regret living farther out?
Balancing all these costs with your mortgage is key to making sure you’re not house-poor.
Bonus: Hidden Gems You Shouldn’t Overlook
Sure, Madison, Antioch, and Donelson are great, but let’s talk about a few less obvious affordable neighborhoods near Nashville that give great value.
White House
This town, about 30 minutes north of Nashville, is growing fast. It feels suburban, but home prices are still reasonable.
Pros:
- Small-town feel with Nashville access.
- Good schools, making it a solid pick for families.
Average Home Price: Around $315,000
La Vergne
Right next to Smyrna but generally cheaper when it comes to housing. If you work in Rutherford County or even downtown Nashville, this area is worth checking out.
Pros:
- Easy highway access—Nashville’s about 25-30 minutes away.
- Lower crime rates compared to other budget-friendly options.
Average Home Price: Around $320,000
FAQs
Is it worth buying a house near Nashville right now?
If renting is more expensive than your mortgage payment, yes. Mortgage rates are up, but if you buy in an area set to appreciate, you’re making a smart move.
Where is the cheapest place to live near Nashville?
Areas like White House, La Vergne, and parts of Antioch still offer affordability compared to the rest of the city.
Will Nashville home prices go down?
Unlikely. Demand is high, and even with rate hikes, people still want to move here. If you’re planning long-term, now is still a good time to buy.
How much money do I need to buy a home in Nashville?
That depends on the area, but a solid starter home within 30 minutes of the city will likely require a budget of at least $300,000.
Final Thoughts
Nashville’s not cheap anymore, but there are still budget-friendly neighborhoods near Nashville where you can buy your first home without going broke. You just need to know where to look. If you want more tips on investing in affordable housing markets.