Murfreesboro, Tennessee Real Estate and Community Information

Murfreesboro is located a half-hour from Nashville. Known for its pedestrian-friendly greenways, excellent schools, and robust economy, Murfreesboro is home to Middle Tennessee State University, historic Cannonsburgh, and Nissan. The city has a population of approximately 100,000.

History

Formerly known as Cannonsburgh before it was named after Colonel Hardy Murfree, Murfreesboro’s history dates back to the early 19^th century when it was recognized as the first capital of Tennessee. Murfreesboro evolved from an agricultural community to the “Athens of Tennessee” when several colleges and academies chose the city as their home. In the latter half of the 20^th century and into the 21^st, manufacturing and industrial growth has contributed to Murfreesboro’s stable economy.

Shopping and Dining

Although its proximity to Nashville is a bonus to Murfreesboro residents, at 35 miles distant from the state capital the city has its own identity and economy and boasts a variety of shopping and dining opportunities. The Avenue is an open-air, pedestrian mall with both local and national retailers. The Oaks is located in Murfreesboro’s Gateway Project, and includes stores, restaurants, and offices. A Murfreesboro mainstay, Stones River Mall has an open-air promenade called The Shops at Stone River. The city has more than 80 restaurants representing cuisine from around the world. Local favorite restaurants include Demos’ Restaurant, B. McNeel’s, The Chop House, and Reeves Sain Soda Shoppe.

Parks and Recreation

Murfreesboro has over eight parks in addition to wetlands and greenways. The “Boro” also has a trio of community centers and its comprehensive Greenway System comprises of the Stones River, Lytle Creek, and Gateway trails for hiking, walking, running, skating, and bicycling. There are ten miles of trails along the river with water access for kayaking and canoeing. Murfreesboro museums and historic sites include the Discovery Center, a nature center; Cannonsburgh Village, a living history museum and reconstructed townsite; Stones River Battlefield, a 650-acre park and Civil War cemetery; Sam Davis Home, a museum named for a Confederate Civil War soldier; and Rutherford County Courthouse, one of six remaining pre-Civil War courthouses. Murfreesboro hosts an annual jazz festival, JazzFest, and an Old-Time music festival, Uncle Dave Macon Days. The city hosts a “Middle Half” marathon as well.

Living

Murfreesboro’s outstanding growing economy, quality of life, cost of living, and educational opportunities have drawn national attention. Business Week has named Murfreesboro as one of “The Best Places to Raise Your Kids.”  Rutherford County is ranked in the Top 50 for job growth, and Forbes Magazine ranked the Nashville metro area as one of the “Best Places for Business and Careers.” Real estate in the area includes historic homes and newer subdivisions. The median home value is around $180,000. There are several desirable neighborhoods with excellent schools and affordable housing, including Memorial Blvd/Thompson Lane, Dillton/Mankinville, Compton/Shiloh, Middle Tennessee State College/Blue Raider Dr./Mount Olive, Broad St./Bradyville Pike/Fosterville/Christiana, and Leanna.

Schools, Health, Transportation

Murfreesboro is served by Murfreesboro City Schools and Rutherford County Schools, which have earned some of the highest scores in the state. The teacher-student ratio is 1:22 for elementary schools and 1:30 for middle and high schools. Murfreesboro’s elementary schools have earned excellent GreatSchools ratings and Murfreesboro High School’s football program draws passionate supporters. There are a number of private schools in the area as well. Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is the largest university in the state with world-renowned programs in aerospace, business, mass communication, and recording. Murfreesboro is also home to area community colleges and trade institutions.

For acute health care, Middle Tennessee Medical Center is the area’s local hospital. The Regional Transportation Authority offers public transportation. There is a Relax & Ride service to Nashville for commuters. The local airports are Murfreesboro Municipal Airport, Nashville International Airport and Smyrna Airport. Interstate 24, U.S. Routes 41, 70S, 231, and State Routes 1, 2, 10, 96, 99, 268, and 840 are the city’s major arterials.

If you are thinking about buying or selling a home, give us a call at (615) 397-4024 or send us an email to explore your options and to find out when is the best time for you to make a move.