Trying to find the best place to live near Nashville? Franklin and Brentwood should always top the list.
Both cities offer easy access to Nashville, great lifestyle perks, and strong real estate markets, making Brentwood and Franklin a common buyer choice, with options like condos in Nashville, TN appealing to urban-focused buyers.
For buying a home in Franklin or Brentwood, we’ll break down everything you need to know, including:
- Every city’s lifestyle and vibe
- Market trends and home pricing
- School ratings and options
- Commute times and accessibility
This guide will help you find the community that best suits your plans, whether relocating or exploring your options.
Location & Community Overview
Franklin, TN: Where History Meets Modern Living
Franklin perfectly blends a family-friendly atmosphere with beautiful historical charm, attracting families, creatives, and entrepreneurs alike. If you’re considering making Franklin your home, you can find a variety of homes for sale in the Franklin that combine timeless character with vibrant community living.
Highlights of Franklin:
- Historical Charm: Stroll down Main Street and feel the rich history come alive with beautifully preserved architecture.
- Arts and Culture: Franklin has a thriving creative scene, from art galleries to live music.
- Vibrant Downtown: Enjoy a calendar packed with community events, boutique shopping, and cozy cafes.
- Franklin Main Street Festival: The city’s heart during the annual event brings live music, food vendors, and artisans, a local favorite.
Nearby Landmarks:
- CoolSprings Galleria: A major dining and shopping destination just minutes away.
- Carnton Plantation & Carter House: People can glimpse the historic sites, which serve as proof of the Civil War
Brentwood, TN: A Sophisticated Suburban Retreat
Just north of Franklin, Brentwood offers an upscale, quieter lifestyle with a strong sense of community. Whether you’re looking for larger homes or an affordable townhouse in Brentwood, you can enjoy lush green spaces and a peaceful suburban feel while staying close to Nashville.
Highlights of Brentwood:
- Upscale Living: The neighborhoods here are executive-style, providing luxurious homes and spacious lots.
- Family-focused: It has become a top choice for families because of the top-rated schools and plenty of parks.
- Professional Community: Professionals, including corporate executives who appreciate a short commute and a serene home life, are very much attracted to this place.
Nearby Landmarks:
- Crockett Park: One of Brentwood’s largest parks, which includes community events, playgrounds, and sports fields.
- Brentwood Library: Family programming and various resources are excellent in this community hub.
Franklin and Brentwood offer different lifestyles. Whether you’re attracted to Franklin’s vibrant energy or the peaceful environment in Brentwood, you’ll find a community that feels like home in both.
Real Estate Market Comparison: Franklin vs. Brentwood (2025)
Home Prices
- Franklin: Median list price is around $720,000, while the median sold price is around $700,000.
- Brentwood: Expect a higher median list price of $1.3 million, as the homes are being sold for close to $1.25 million.
Both markets give tough competition, although Brentwood is seen as having the upper hand.
Inventory and Home Styles
- Franklin: has about 350 active listings, including charming historic homes, classic Colonials, and cozy Craftsman styles.
- Brentwood: Around 280 active listings, dominated by sprawling luxury estates, sleek contemporaries, and gated communities.
The homebuyers in Franklin get to experience timeless character, while Brentwood buyers enjoy the modern luxury and exclusivity.
Property Types
- Franklin: Franklin is known for its historic homes, many of which date back to the 19th century.
- Brentwood: It is celebrated for the luxury estates, which often feature resort-style facilities, private gyms, and guest houses.
Appreciation Trends and Investment Potential
- Franklin: The value is growing by about 4% each year because people find it attractive and enjoy the sense of community.
- Brentwood: Home prices here are increasing by about 5–6% because more people want expensive, high-end homes, and few are available.
Investment Insight: Although both markets are strong, Brentwood offers faster growth, while Franklin provides stability.
Schools & Education
Education is a key aspect of comparison when it comes to the areas. Here’s an overview of the best school districts Franklin vs Brentwood TN.
Franklin
Franklin welcomes a healthy mix of private and public schools with options like:
- Ben Franklin Elementary
- Country Dale Elementary
- Pleasant View Elementary
- University School of Nashville
- Montgomery Bell Academy
- Montgomery Bell Academy
Brentwood
Brentwood allows residents to choose from multiple private and public schools, namely:
- Brentwood School
- Holly Trees Primary School
- St Joseph the Worker Catholic Primary School
- Brentwood Ursuline Convent High School
Educational institutes at both the areas offer quality education to students while shaping their future. Additionally, students also have the option to pursue higher education in neighboring cities.
Commute & Accessibility
Interjection with Highways:
Both Franklin and Brentwood share easy commuting for its residents. The areas are well connected to Nashville and downtown, typically located at 15–20 minutes distance.
Some easy access highways around the area include:
- I-65
- I-40
- I-24
Public Transportation:
Public transport options are limited around the area. You can find your daily commute with WeGo Public Transit that runs a few buses and express routes.. However, it’s best to have a car since the service frequency often falls short around Franklin and Brentwood.
Walkability:
Areas like The Gulch, East Nashville, and 12 South are pedestrian-friendly, offering local shops and dining within walking distance. In contrast, more suburban areas tend to require driving.
Lifestyle & Amenities
Franklin: A Blend of Charm and Community
Franklin beautifully balances historic charm with modern living.
- Family-Friendly Events: Something like seasonal festivals or outdoor concerts always brings the community together.
- Local Boutiques and Farmers’ Markets: Spend your weekends browsing through unique shops and fresh products.
- Old-Town Feel with Modern Comforts: Cobblestone walkways, historic homes, and trendy cafes create a unique atmosphere where past and present meet beautifully.
Brentwood: Luxury Living at Its Finest
Brentwood offers a peaceful, high-class lifestyle tailored for comfort and privacy.
- Exclusive Communities: Huge estates, safe neighborhoods, and private country clubs define everyday living.
- Recreational Elegance: Play golf at beautiful, well-kept courses or relax at the best spas and wellness centers.
- Quiet Sophistication: You can shop at fancy stores and walk along peaceful streets with many trees. Even though it feels calm and far from the busy city, everything you need is still very close.
Who Should Consider Each Area?
Franklin: A Perfect Fit for Families and Creatives
Franklin offers a charming, small-town vibe with a vibrant, walkable downtown. It’s a fantastic match for:
- Families looking for excellent schools, community events, and safe neighborhoods.
- Creatives are drawn to the city’s rich music, art, and cultural scene.
- Walkability lovers who enjoy coffee shops, boutiques, and local eateries all within strolling distance.
Franklin feels like home if you want that cozy, connected feeling without giving up amenities.
Brentwood: Ideal for Executives and Privacy Seekers
Brentwood is polished, private, and all about space and luxury. It’s the right choice for:
- Executives wanted a peaceful retreat with quick access to Nashville’s business hubs.
- Privacy seekers who prefer gated communities and larger, upscale homes.
- Families who prioritize elite schools and private country clubs.
Brentwood delivers it beautifully if you want sophistication, space, and exclusivity.
Local Testimonials: Real Experiences That Speak Volumes
Hearing directly from satisfied buyers makes all the difference. Here’s what some local customers had to say:
- A Seamless Experience: “From start to finish, the process was effortless. I felt supported at every step!” — Shawn S.
- Outstanding Quality: “The attention to detail was impressive. Every promise made was delivered — and more.” — Raul M.
- Trust Built Over Time: “At first, I was hesitant. But seeing the commitment and transparency won me over.” — Nilofer P.
Why Testimonials Matter
Testimonials offer genuine, first-hand insights that help you see the real value of a product or service. They quickly build trust and boost your confidence by showing authentic experiences. Plus, real success stories are easy to relate to, making your decision safer, smarter, and more personal.
Final Thoughts: Which is Right for You?
Both options come with their pros and cons. One might offer more flexibility, while the other promises stability and long-term value. The best choice comes down to your lifestyle, goals, and budget. Are you looking for freedom or investment? Short-term comfort or long-term growth? Take the time to weigh what matters most to you. Remember, you don’t have to figure it out alone— contact trusted real estate brokers in Nashville, TN, like the Zivak Realty Group to help you find the perfect fit for your next move!
