Moving to Murfreesboro, TN
Cost of Living, Neighborhoods & Relocation Guide
Discover why Murfreesboro is one of Tennessee\'s fastest-growing cities. Explore neighborhoods, affordability, schools, and what makes this community an ideal place to call home.
Why Choose Murfreesboro for Your Relocation?
Affordable Living
Below national average costs
Growing Community
~165,000 residents & rising
Strategic Location
34 miles from Nashville
Quality of Life
Family-friendly, vibrant culture
Cost of Living in Murfreesboro
One of the primary reasons families and professionals relocate to Murfreesboro is the affordable cost of living. Murfreesboro offers significantly lower housing costs compared to Nashville and other major Tennessee metropolitan areas, making homeownership and comfortable renting accessible to a wide range of budgets.
Beyond housing, Murfreesboro residents benefit from reasonable costs for utilities, groceries, dining, and services. This affordability advantage extends across the board, allowing residents to save money while maintaining a high quality of life. The city\'s expanding economy and job market mean that affordability doesn\'t come at the expense of opportunity or amenities.
For those relocating from high-cost metropolitan areas, Murfreesboro presents an opportunity to dramatically improve financial flexibility while accessing modern infrastructure, entertainment, and educational institutions. The combination of lower living costs and proximity to Nashville\'s job market makes Murfreesboro an attractive option for remote workers and those seeking work-life balance.
Best Neighborhoods in Murfreesboro
The Avon
A newer residential development known for its modern homes and strong community amenities. Ideal for families seeking contemporary living with established services and activities.
Blackman
Offers suburban charm with convenient access to shopping, dining, and schools. A popular choice for families seeking balanced community living.
Salem
Features established neighborhoods with mature trees and distinctive local character. Attractive to those seeking established communities with personality.
Northfield
Known for excellent schools and safe communities. A top choice for families prioritizing education and family-oriented neighborhoods.
Lascassas Pike Area
Offers diverse residential and commercial opportunities with good access to main corridors. Convenient for those seeking accessibility and variety.
Downtown Core
For those seeking urban living, downtown Murfreesboro offers walkable neighborhoods with restaurants, shops, and entertainment nearby.
Each neighborhood in Murfreesboro offers distinct advantages. Consider your priorities—whether that\'s proximity to schools, access to downtown, newer construction, or established community feel—when exploring neighborhoods during your relocation search.
Schools & Education in Murfreesboro
Murfreesboro is home to the Rutherford County Schools system, which operates numerous elementary, middle, and high schools serving the city and surrounding areas. The school system is committed to academic excellence, offering a range of educational programs and extracurricular activities for students of all interests and abilities.
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is a major public university located in Murfreesboro, providing higher education opportunities and contributing to the city\'s intellectual and cultural vitality. The university brings research, cultural events, and employment opportunities to the region.
In addition to public schools, Murfreesboro offers several private school options for families seeking alternative educational approaches. These institutions provide diverse learning philosophies and curricula to meet various family preferences and student needs.
Public Schools
Rutherford County Schools operates quality schools focused on academic achievement and student development.
Higher Education
Middle Tennessee State University offers undergraduate and graduate programs with strong research and community partnerships.
Private Schools
Multiple private institutions provide alternative educational approaches and specialized programs.
Weather & Climate in Murfreesboro
Murfreesboro experiences four distinct seasons typical of Middle Tennessee, offering variety without extreme weather patterns. Winters are mild with occasional freezing temperatures, while summers are warm and often humid. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and natural beauty as the landscape transforms.
The area receives an average of 50 inches or more of rain annually, which supports the region\'s lush, green landscape and abundant natural vegetation. This moderate climate makes Murfreesboro attractive to those relocating from areas with more extreme weather, such as very hot summers or harsh winters. The seasonal variation provides an enriching quality of life without the challenges of climate extremes.
Things to Do in Murfreesboro
Moving to Murfreesboro means access to a vibrant community with diverse attractions, entertainment, dining, and outdoor recreation. The city offers something for everyone, whether you\'re interested in cultural attractions, outdoor activities, shopping, dining, or community events.
Downtown Murfreesboro has undergone significant revitalization, with restaurants, shops, galleries, and entertainment venues creating a walkable, lively downtown experience. Nearby parks and outdoor recreation areas provide opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
Outdoor Recreation
Parks, trails, outdoor activities, and natural attractions throughout Murfreesboro and surrounding Middle Tennessee.
Explore Parks & Outdoors →Dining & Food
Diverse restaurants, cafes, and food experiences from casual to fine dining throughout the city.
Browse Restaurants →Events & Festivals
Year-round community events, festivals, concerts, and cultural celebrations happening throughout Murfreesboro.
View Events Calendar →Family Activities
Kid-friendly attractions, activities, and entertainment perfect for families with children of all ages.
Browse Kids Activities →Getting Around Murfreesboro
Murfreesboro is located approximately 34 miles southeast of Nashville, with a typical drive time of 35-45 minutes via Interstate 24 (I-24). This convenient proximity to Tennessee\'s capital city provides access to extensive employment opportunities, world-class entertainment, dining, shopping, and cultural attractions.
Most residents rely on personal vehicles for daily transportation, though public transit options are available through the Murfreesboro Transit Authority. The city\'s growing infrastructure and road systems make commuting manageable, whether you\'re traveling within Murfreesboro or to nearby Nashville.
Many professionals choose to live in Murfreesboro while working in Nashville, benefiting from the lower cost of living, community feel, and shorter commute compared to living directly in Nashville. The I-24 corridor provides efficient access, and remote work opportunities have made Murfreesboro increasingly attractive to professionals seeking to avoid daily commutes entirely.
Murfreesboro Zip Codes
Murfreesboro is served by seven primary zip codes, each covering different areas of the city and surrounding regions:
37127
37128
37129
37130
37131
37132
37133
When searching for homes, schools, and services, knowing your zip code helps identify neighborhood boundaries and local resources. Real estate agents and local services often organize information by zip code to help new residents navigate the city.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Murfreesboro
What is the population of Murfreesboro, TN?
Murfreesboro has a population of approximately 165,000 residents as of 2025, making it one of the fastest-growing cities in Tennessee. The city has experienced significant growth over the past decade, driven by its affordable cost of living, proximity to Nashville, and strong job market. This steady growth reflects Murfreesboro's appeal as a destination for families, professionals, and businesses relocating to Middle Tennessee.
What is the cost of living in Murfreesboro?
The cost of living in Murfreesboro is below the national average, making it an attractive destination for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life. Housing costs, in particular, are significantly lower than in Nashville and other major Tennessee cities. This affordability extends to groceries, utilities, and services, allowing residents to stretch their budgets further while enjoying a vibrant community with excellent amenities.
What are the best neighborhoods in Murfreesboro?
Popular neighborhoods in Murfreesboro include The Avon, known for its newer residential developments and community amenities; Blackman, offering a mix of suburban charm and convenient access to shopping and dining; Salem, featuring established neighborhoods with mature trees and local character; Northfield, attractive to families seeking good schools and safe communities; and areas along Lascassas Pike, which offer both residential and commercial opportunities. Each neighborhood has its own unique appeal and community feel.
What zip codes does Murfreesboro have?
Murfreesboro is served by seven primary zip codes: 37127, 37128, 37129, 37130, 37131, 37132, and 37133. These zip codes cover different areas of the city and surrounding regions. Understanding the zip codes can be helpful when searching for neighborhoods, schools, and local services during your relocation planning.
What are schools like in Murfreesboro?
Murfreesboro is home to the Rutherford County Schools system, which serves the city with numerous elementary, middle, and high schools. The area also has Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), a major public university. Additionally, Murfreesboro offers several private school options for families seeking alternative educational environments. The city's schools are known for their commitment to academic excellence and student development.
What is the weather like in Murfreesboro?
Murfreesboro experiences four distinct seasons typical of Middle Tennessee. Winters are mild with occasional freezing temperatures, while summers are warm and often humid. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and natural beauty. The area receives an average of 50+ inches of rain annually, supporting the region's lush landscape. The moderate climate makes Murfreesboro attractive to those seeking relief from extreme weather patterns found in other regions.
How far is Murfreesboro from Nashville?
Murfreesboro is approximately 34 miles southeast of Nashville, with a typical drive time of 35-45 minutes via Interstate 24 (I-24). This convenient proximity allows residents to access Nashville's extensive job market, entertainment venues, dining, and cultural attractions while enjoying the lower cost of living and community feel of Murfreesboro. Many professionals work in Nashville while choosing to live in Murfreesboro.
Is Murfreesboro a good place to live?
Yes, Murfreesboro is an excellent place to live for families, young professionals, and retirees. The city combines affordability with quality amenities, strong schools, a diverse job market, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation. Its proximity to Nashville provides access to major employment and entertainment, while the city maintains its own vibrant downtown and community character. The combination of growth, opportunity, and livability makes Murfreesboro an increasingly popular relocation destination in Tennessee.
Resources for Relocating to Murfreesboro
Use these resources to plan your move and learn more about the Murfreesboro community: