Murfreesboro, Tennessee — City Guide & Map
Your comprehensive guide to the geographic heart of Tennessee. Population, neighborhoods, distances, and everything you need to know about Murfreesboro, TN.
Murfreesboro, TN at a Glance
Murfreesboro is the county seat of Rutherford County and the sixth-largest city in Tennessee with a population of approximately 170,000. Located 35 miles southeast of Nashville along Interstate 24, Murfreesboro serves as the geographic center of Tennessee. The city is home to Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), a vibrant downtown centered on the historic Public Square, and one of the fastest-growing communities in the southeastern United States.
Interactive Murfreesboro TN Map
Interactive City Map
High-resolution geographic data for Murfreesboro, TN
Key Districts & Neighborhoods
Historic Downtown
Centered around the Public Square and the Rutherford County Courthouse. A hub for shopping, dining, and professional services. Home to Friday Night Live, the Farmers Market, and Christmas on the Square.
Explore the Public Square →North Murfreesboro
Home to upscale residential areas, the Gateway district, and major retail centers like The Avenue and Stones River Town Centre.
MTSU Campus Area
The geographic heart of Middle Tennessee State University, featuring student housing, campus-centered amenities, and a vibrant college-town atmosphere.
Blackman / West Boro
Fast-growing residential sectors with excellent schools and easy access to I-24.
Distances from Murfreesboro
| Destination | Distance | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Nashville, TN | 35 miles | 35-45 min |
| Smyrna, TN | 12 miles | 15-20 min |
| La Vergne, TN | 18 miles | 20-25 min |
| Eagleville, TN | 20 miles | ~25 min |
| Shelbyville, TN | 33 miles | ~40 min |
| Chattanooga, TN | 120 miles | ~2 hours |
| Nashville Airport (BNA) | 30 miles | 30-40 min |
How Do You Spell Murfreesboro?
Murfreesboro, Tennessee is one of the most commonly misspelled city names in the United States. The city is named after Colonel Hardy Murfree, a Revolutionary War hero, and the correct spelling is M-u-r-f-r-e-e-s-b-o-r-o. Here are some common misspellings and alternate search terms people use when looking for Murfreesboro, TN:
Common misspellings and alternate searches:
No matter how you spell it, you have found the right place! Murfreesboro, Tennessee (often shortened to "The Boro") is a thriving city in the heart of Middle Tennessee.
About Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Murfreesboro was established in 1811 and named after Colonel Hardy Murfree, a hero of the American Revolution. The city served as the capital of Tennessee from 1818 to 1826 and has been the county seat of Rutherford County since its founding. During the Civil War, the Battle of Stones River (December 31, 1862 – January 2, 1863) was fought on the outskirts of the city and remains one of the deadliest battles of the war.
Today, Murfreesboro is one of the fastest-growing cities in Tennessee and the southeastern United States. With a population approaching 170,000, the city has grown significantly from its roots as a small county seat. The presence of Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), the largest undergraduate university in the state, brings over 20,000 students to the area and contributes to a vibrant cultural and economic scene.
The historic Public Square, centered around the Rutherford County Courthouse, remains the heart of the community. Downtown Murfreesboro has experienced a significant renaissance in recent years, with new restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues joining long-established businesses. The city hosts popular community events throughout the year including Friday Night Live, the Main Street Farmers Market, and Christmas on the Square.
Quick City Facts
- Population: ~170,000 (2025 est.)
- County: Rutherford (County Seat)
- State: Tennessee (Central)
- Founded: 1811
- Geographic Center: Murfreesboro is the geographic center of Tennessee
- Major Interstates: I-24, I-840
- University: Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)
- Nashville Distance: 35 miles (35-45 min drive)
- ZIP Codes: 37127, 37128, 37129, 37130, 37131, 37132
Frequently Asked Questions About Murfreesboro, TN
What is the population of Murfreesboro, TN?
Murfreesboro, Tennessee has a population of approximately 170,000 residents as of 2025, making it the sixth-largest city in Tennessee. The greater Murfreesboro metropolitan area, which includes much of Rutherford County, has a population exceeding 350,000. Murfreesboro is one of the fastest-growing cities in the southeastern United States.
How far is Murfreesboro from Nashville?
Murfreesboro is approximately 35 miles southeast of Nashville, Tennessee via Interstate 24. The drive from downtown Nashville to downtown Murfreesboro takes approximately 35 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Murfreesboro is part of the Nashville metropolitan statistical area.
How far is Eagleville, TN from Murfreesboro?
Eagleville, Tennessee is approximately 20 miles southwest of Murfreesboro via US-231 (Shelbyville Highway). The drive takes about 25 minutes. Eagleville is a small town in southern Rutherford County known for its rural character and local farms.
What is the main street in Murfreesboro?
The main street in Murfreesboro is Main Street (also known as West Main Street and East Main Street), which runs through the heart of downtown and passes directly through the historic Public Square. Main Street is home to many of Murfreesboro's most popular restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
Is Murfreesboro a good place to live?
Murfreesboro is consistently ranked among the best places to live in Tennessee. The city offers a lower cost of living compared to Nashville, excellent schools including Middle Tennessee State University, a thriving downtown with restaurants and events, abundant parks and recreation, and easy access to Nashville via I-24. The city's rapid growth reflects its appeal to families and professionals alike.
What is Murfreesboro, TN known for?
Murfreesboro is known as the geographic center of Tennessee, home to Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), and the site of the Civil War Battle of Stones River. The city features a vibrant historic downtown centered on the Public Square, numerous parks and greenways, and a thriving local food and music scene. Murfreesboro was also the state capital of Tennessee from 1818 to 1826.