Thinking about making Murfreesboro home? You’re not alone. This fast-growing Middle Tennessee city blends a historic downtown, a major university, and plenty of new development. If you want a clear, local view of daily life here, you’re in the right place. In this guide, you’ll learn about neighborhoods, commuting, schools, parks, costs and more so you can decide if Murfreesboro fits your goals. Let’s dive in.
Murfreesboro at a glance
Murfreesboro has grown quickly in recent years. The 2020 Census counted roughly 152,700 residents, and growth has continued. You’ll find a mix of students, families and commuters.
Middle Tennessee State University is a major anchor, along with health care, retail, logistics and manufacturing. Many residents commute to jobs in the broader Nashville metro. Fast growth brings more restaurants and shopping, but it also means busier roads and ongoing infrastructure work.
Neighborhoods and housing
You have a wide range of options, from historic streets to new master-planned communities. Here’s a quick overview of common areas and what to expect.
Downtown and Courthouse Square
If you value walkability and character, the historic downtown offers older homes, local shops and seasonal events. It’s the city’s social hub and a good choice if you like being close to restaurants and live music.
Near MTSU
Neighborhoods around the university mix student rentals, apartments and older single-family homes. Rental demand is steady because of the campus, though turnover can be higher.
Established suburbs
West and East Murfreesboro, Oaklands and Old Fort areas include mid-century homes and newer builds on larger lots. These areas appeal to buyers who want space and proximity to parks and schools.
Newer communities
You’ll find many new subdivisions and master-planned neighborhoods with single-family homes and townhomes. Amenities often include pools, playgrounds and HOA-maintained spaces.
Outlying and rural options
If you prefer more land, outlying parts of Rutherford County offer a rural feel with reasonable access to town.
Pricing snapshot
Prices rose in the 2010s and early 2020s. In recent years, median sale prices have often landed in the low to mid $300s, though conditions change and vary by neighborhood. Historic homes near downtown may command premiums for walkability and character. Newer subdivisions often compete on price, size and modern floor plans.
Schools and learning
Public schools that serve most residents are part of Rutherford County Schools. School performance varies by campus, so review the district’s resources and the Tennessee Department of Education’s report cards.
- Explore the district at the Rutherford County Schools site.
- Compare performance on the Tennessee Report Card.
MTSU adds continuing education, arts and NCAA sports to local life. You can browse upcoming performances, lectures and events on the MTSU calendar.
Rutherford County Schools
Tennessee Report Card
MTSU events calendar
Parks, trails and outdoor time
Murfreesboro’s outdoor scene is a strong quality-of-life factor. The city maintains an expanding greenway network, ballfields and community parks. Stones River National Battlefield offers trails, interpretive programs and open green space for walking and biking.
- Learn about parks and greenways through Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation.
- Plan a visit to Stones River National Battlefield with the National Park Service.
Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation
Stones River National Battlefield
Food, culture and events
Downtown is home to independent eateries, brewpubs and Southern staples alongside national chains. Farmers markets, community festivals and university-hosted events keep the calendar full. For arts and culture, you’ll see music, theater and gallery events year-round, many hosted at MTSU.
Getting around
Driving is the primary way to get around. Interstate 24 connects Murfreesboro to Nashville and Chattanooga. Commutes to downtown Nashville can take 30 to 60 minutes or more in peak hours, especially along I-24. Ongoing road projects aim to ease congestion as the region grows.
Public transit is limited compared with Nashville. Many residents rely on carpooling, ride-hailing and flexible schedules. For air travel, Nashville International Airport is typically a 25 to 45 minute drive depending on traffic.
- Check state roadway updates with TDOT.
- Explore flight options at Nashville International Airport.
Tennessee Department of Transportation
Nashville International Airport
Costs, taxes and utilities
Tennessee does not tax wages at the state level, which is a plus for many households. Murfreesboro’s overall cost of living is often lower than central Nashville, though housing and monthly costs vary by area and home type. Property taxes, assessments and utility rates differ, so it helps to review specifics for any property you are considering.
- Check property tax details with the Rutherford County Assessor.
Weather and safety
Murfreesboro has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Thunderstorms are common and the region can see occasional tornadoes. If you’re considering homes near waterways or low-lying areas, review flood maps for a clear picture of risk.
Safety and crime vary by neighborhood. To understand conditions on the ground, review official data and visit at different times of day.
- Review flood risk on FEMA’s Map Service Center.
- See local reports from the Murfreesboro Police Department.
FEMA Flood Map Service Center
Murfreesboro Police Department
Who Murfreesboro fits
- You want a mix of history and growth. Downtown charm meets new-build convenience.
- You work in the Nashville metro but prefer more space and relative affordability.
- You value access to a university’s arts, sports and adult learning opportunities.
- You like trails, parks and low-stress day trips around Middle Tennessee.
How to start your home search
Clarify your priorities first. If you commute to Nashville, focus on neighborhoods with quick access to I-24 or major arterials. If proximity to parks or specific school zones matters, map those first. Walk downtown, visit community parks and tour at different times of day to get a feel for traffic and noise.
When you are ready, work with a local team that understands micro-markets, pricing and how to stage and present your home or offer. The Janelle Sells Team brings deep Murfreesboro roots, complimentary staging, full coordination and property management support for investors. If you want a friendly, high-touch guide who knows Rutherford County inside and out, reach out to the Janelle Sells Team. Let’s find your dream home.
FAQs
Commuting from Murfreesboro to Nashville
- Typical one-way drive times range from 30 to 60 minutes or more during peak hours, largely along I-24.
Public schools in Murfreesboro and Rutherford County
- Most students attend Rutherford County Schools, and families should review the Tennessee Report Card and district resources for performance and zoning.
Walkable areas in Murfreesboro
- Downtown and nearby older neighborhoods offer the most walkability, while most suburban areas are car dependent.
Outdoor recreation options in Murfreesboro
- You can access city greenways and parks plus the Stones River National Battlefield for trails and open space.
Cost of living and taxes in Murfreesboro
- Housing costs vary by neighborhood, and Tennessee does not tax wages at the state level; review property tax details for each address.
Buying or renting near MTSU
- Rentals near campus see steady demand, while buyers seeking long-term residence often focus on areas with less turnover outside the core student zones.
