The largest cities in Tennessee are known for their unique contributions to music, industry, and Southern charm. From the bustling streets of Nashville to the scenic vistas of Chattanooga, Tennessee’s big communities highlight the state’s diverse appeal.
A wide, landlocked Southern state, Tennessee is nicknamed the Volunteer State. It’s a popular place to live thanks to its natural beauty, thriving urban centers, and no state income tax. Whether you’re seeking vibrant music scenes, historic landmarks, or outdoor adventures, Tennessee’s cities have something for everyone. Let’s explore the ten most populated spots in Tennessee and uncover what makes each one special.
Here are the ten biggest cities in Tennessee, in order of the highest to lowest populations:
1. Nashville, TN
As the capital and biggest city in Tennessee, Nashville is home to 689,447 residents as of the 2020 census. Known as “Music City,” it’s the heart of the country music industry, housing iconic landmarks like the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. It’s also been called the “Country Music Capital”, “Athens of the South”, and “Nashvegas”.
Beyond music, Nashville boasts a thriving food scene with Southern staples and innovative cuisine. Its vibrant neighborhoods, such as East Nashville and The Gulch, offer a mix of cultural experiences, from art galleries to craft breweries. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy Centennial Park, home to a full-scale replica of the Parthenon.
From its iconic country music landmarks to its growing tech and healthcare industries, Nashville continues to shape the cultural and economic landscape of the South. It has a blend of creativity, history, and opportunity making it a magnet for artists, entrepreneurs, and tourists alike.
2. Memphis, TN
Memphis is located along the Mississippi River in Western Tennessee. Famous as the birthplace of blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll, it’s home to legendary Beale Street and historic Sun Studio, where icons like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash recorded. It recorded a population of 633,104 in the 2020 census.
The city’s cultural significance extends to the National Civil Rights Museum, housed in the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. Memphis also offers culinary delights, particularly its world-famous barbecue, celebrated at the annual World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest.
With its rich musical heritage and pivotal role in civil rights history, Memphis stands as a city that shaped the nation’s cultural and social landscape. It has been called the “Home of the Blues”, “Grind City”, and “Bluff City”. Whether it’s music, history, or mouthwatering barbecue, Memphis’ unique contributions to American culture make it a city like no other.
3. Knoxville, TN
Tucked away in northeast Tennessee, Knoxville has the nickname of “Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains”. It boasted a 2020 census population of 190,740. The city’s vibrant downtown features Market Square, a hub for local shops, restaurants, and events. Knoxville is also home to the University of Tennessee, whose campus is a focal point of the city’s energy.
The city celebrates its heritage with landmarks like the Sunsphere, a remnant of the 1982 World’s Fair, and the East Tennessee History Center. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby trails, rivers, and parks, including Ijams Nature Center.
Knoxville’s mix of urban vibrancy and access to natural beauty makes it a destination that appeals to a wide range of people. Its nearby mountains and thriving local arts scene make it a city full of adventure and creativity. Some nicknames for it include “Marble City”, “Heart of the Valley”, “Queen City of the Mountains”, “K-Town”, “Scruffy City”, and “Knox Vegas”.
4. Chattanooga, TN
Nestled along the Tennessee River, Chattanooga is nicknamed “Chatt”, “Chattown”, “Gig City”, “Nooga”, and “River City”, and officially “Scenic City”. The city’s Riverwalk stretches for miles, offering picturesque views and recreational opportunities. Known as the “Scenic City”, it’s renowned for attractions like Lookout Mountain, Rock City, and the Tennessee Aquarium. had a population of 181,099 in 2020.
Chattanooga’s revitalized downtown is home to a thriving arts scene and innovative technology sector. The city has earned recognition as one of the most sustainable and forward-thinking urban centers in the region, with initiatives like its Gig City project, which introduced the fastest internet speeds in the country.
Combining natural wonders with modern innovation, Chattanooga provides an experience that’s both relaxing and inspiring. Its combination of breathtaking natural landscapes and cutting-edge technology cements its reputation as one of the South’s most innovative cities.
5. Clarksville, TN
Located northwest of Nashville, Clarksville’s strong ties to the military are evident in its proximity to Fort Campbell, a major U.S. Army installation. Local history is showcased at attractions like the Customs House Museum and Cultural Center. In the 2020 census, Clarksville had a population of 166,722.
Outdoor lovers can enjoy Dunbar Cave State Park, which features hiking trails and ancient Native American petroglyphs. The Cumberland River provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and scenic walks along its banks.
Clarksville’s combination of military heritage, cultural offerings, and outdoor activities makes it an attractive place to live. It has been called the “Queen of the Cumberland”, “Gateway to the New South”, and “Tennessee’s Top Spot”. Showcasing unique attractions, like the Customs House Museum and the scenic Cumberland River, you’ll love your time in Clarksville.
6. Murfreesboro, TN
Murfreesboro is one of the fastest-growing cities in Tennessee, home to 152,769 people in 2020, “The Boto” is known for its historic roots, particularly at Stones River National Battlefield, which commemorates a significant Civil War battle. The city is also home to Middle Tennessee State University, the largest undergraduate university in the state.
Local parks, such as Barfield Crescent Park, feature hiking trails, disc golf, and picnic areas. Murfreesboro’s thriving economy and family-friendly atmosphere make it a popular choice for new residents.
It has a mix of modern amenities and Southern charm. Murfreesboro’s rich Civil War history and status as a hub for education and innovation ensure its place as one of Tennessee’s most promising cities.
7. Franklin, TN
Popular for its charming downtown, this city south of Nashville is a fast-growing city. At the 2020 census, there were 83,454 residents living in Franklin. The Franklin Theatre and Carnton Plantation are key attractions that highlight its rich history.
Main Street in Franklin is lined with boutique shops, local restaurants, and galleries, creating a vibrant cultural scene. Annual events, such as the Main Street Festival and Dickens of a Christmas, draw visitors from across the region.
Franklin’s careful preservation of Civil War landmarks and vibrant Main Street make it a quintessential destination for history and culture lovers. Experience life in one of central Tennessee’s most desirable cities.
8. Johnson City, TN
Surrounded by the rolling Appalachian Mountains, Johnson City features a rich tapestry of educational opportunities, historical significance, and outdoor recreation. As of 2020, it had 71,046 residents. The city is home to East Tennessee State University and the Gray Fossil Site, an active paleontological dig and museum that offers a glimpse into prehistoric life.
Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Buffalo Mountain Park and Winged Deer Park, which provide hiking, biking, and scenic views. The city’s growing craft beer scene and vibrant downtown add to its appeal.
The city’s Gray Fossil Site showcases its prehistoric past, while East Tennessee State University drives innovation and education in the region. This combination of historical depth and modern ambition sets Johnson City apart as a thriving Appalachian hub.
9. Jackson, TN
Located in western Tennessee, Jackson stands as a cultural and historical hub in the region. Its population was 68,205 in 2020. Famous as the birthplace of rockabilly music, the city celebrates its musical heritage at the International Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame. Casey Jones Village, a railroad-themed attraction, offers a look into the area’s history.
The city’s outdoor offerings include Cypress Grove Nature Park and Jackson Walk, a mixed-use development that combines green spaces with retail and dining. Jackson’s central location makes it a hub for transportation and commerce in the region.
The city is also home to the West Tennessee Healthcare Sportsplex, a premier baseball facility that draws tournaments and visitors from across the region, highlighting its dedication to sports and recreation. Jackson continues to innovate with projects like the AMP at the Market, which brings live music and community events to the heart of the city.
10. Hendersonville, TN
Northeast of Nashville, Hendersonville’s picturesque setting along Old Hickory Lake defines its appeal. It’s nicknamed the “City by the Lake”, showcasing abundant waterfront activities, including boating, fishing, and kayaking. The lakefront setting is a defining feature of the city’s appeal. Its population in 2020 was 61,753.
The city’s historic sites, like Rock Castle, and its modern amenities, such as The Streets of Indian Lake shopping center, provide a balance of past and present. Hendersonville’s excellent schools and family-friendly neighborhoods contribute to its popularity.
In addition to its lakefront appeal, Hendersonville boasts a growing arts scene and hosts community events like the Hendersonville Performing Arts Company’s seasonal productions, adding cultural depth to its family-friendly atmosphere. Hendersonville’s vibrant lakefront lifestyle and rich historical landmarks make it a standout community in Middle Tennessee.
From the musical heritage of Nashville and Memphis to the scenic landscapes of Chattanooga and Johnson City, these urban centers reflect the best of the Volunteer State. Tennessee’s most populated cities showcase the state’s rich history, cultural vibrancy, and natural beauty.
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