Largest cities in Tennessee

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Tennessee, known for its rich musical heritage and southern hospitality, is a state that offers a high quality of life and a strong sense of community. With a population of approximately 7 million, it ranks as the 16th most populated state in the U.S. Tennessee has experienced rapid population growth, driven by its attractive living conditions and economic opportunities. Bordered by Kentucky and Virginia to the north, North Carolina to the east, Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi to the south, and Arkansas and Missouri to the west, Tennessee offers a variety of living environments across its roughly 345 cities and towns.

Living in Tennessee provides residents with numerous benefits, including a low cost of living, a mild climate, and a rich cultural scene. The state's moderate population density allows for vibrant community life and ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Tennessee's economy is diverse, with strengths in manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. The state's rapid population growth supports sustainable development and economic stability. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Tennessee, based on data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, offers a comprehensive overview of Tennessee cities by population, highlighting the state's most significant urban centers.

Nashville Population: 692,022 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 1,233 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,454 Med. Household Income: $93,264

Nashville, TN, known as 'Music City,' offers a unique blend of musical heritage and Southern hospitality. Located in central Tennessee, Nashville is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Franklin and Murfreesboro enhance its status as a central point in the region. Nashville's blend of live music venues, historic landmarks, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Memphis Population: 674,455 Livability Score: 70

Area Size: 822 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,125 Med. Household Income: $61,386

Memphis, TN, known as 'Home of the Blues,' offers a unique blend of musical history and Southern charm. Located in southwestern Tennessee, Memphis is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Southaven and Germantown enhance its status as a central point in the region. Memphis's blend of live music, historic landmarks, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Knoxville Population: 193,504 Livability Score: 74

Area Size: 256 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,960 Med. Household Income: $62,453

Knoxville, TN, known as "The Marble City," is renowned for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Located in eastern Tennessee along the Tennessee River, Knoxville is approximately 180 miles northeast of Nashville and 110 miles south of Lexington, KY. This medium-sized city is known for its beautiful landscapes and historical significance.

Chattanooga Population: 187,734 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 370 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,313 Med. Household Income: $71,099

Chattanooga, TN, known as "The Scenic City," offers a vibrant lifestyle with stunning natural beauty. Located in southeastern Tennessee along the Tennessee River, Chattanooga is approximately 120 miles northwest of Atlanta, GA, and 130 miles southwest of Knoxville. This medium-sized city provides a unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor activities, making it a highly desirable place to live.

Clarksville Population: 160,664 Livability Score: 83

Area Size: 254 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,639 Med. Household Income: $84,368

Clarksville, TN, known as "The Queen City," is a vibrant community with a rich history and a strong sense of pride. Located in northern Tennessee, Clarksville is approximately 50 miles northwest of Nashville and 50 miles south of Hopkinsville, KY. This medium-sized city is celebrated for its beautiful parks, historic sites, and thriving arts scene.

Murfreesboro Population: 146,103 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 151 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,505 Med. Household Income: $90,378

Murfreesboro, TN, known as 'The Heart of Tennessee,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in Rutherford County, Murfreesboro is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Nashville (34 miles) and Franklin (40 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Murfreesboro's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Franklin Population: 83,480 Livability Score: 74

Area Size: 108 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,010 Med. Household Income: $147,192

Living in Franklin, TN offers a unique blend of Southern charm, historical significance, and modern amenities. Located just south of Nashville, Franklin is known for its beautifully preserved downtown area, which is rich with history and filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The cityâ€™s historic homes, battlefields, and museums provide a glimpse into the past, making it a place where history comes alive.

Jackson Population: 69,498 Livability Score: 62

Area Size: 151 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,189 Med. Household Income: $64,192

Johnson City Population: 69,135 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 112 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,603 Med. Household Income: $61,646

Bartlett Population: 61,391 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 84 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,902 Med. Household Income: $121,594

Full list of the largest cities in Tennessee

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Nashville	692,022	1,233	$93,264	76
2	Memphis	674,455	822	$61,386	70
3	Knoxville	193,504	256	$62,453	74
4	Chattanooga	187,734	370	$71,099	78
5	Clarksville	160,664	254	$84,368	83
6	Murfreesboro	146,103	151	$90,378	76
7	Franklin	83,480	108	$147,192	74
8	Jackson	69,498	151	$64,192	62
9	Johnson City	69,135	112	$61,646	75
10	Bartlett	61,391	84	$121,594	73
11	Hendersonville	59,856	81	$112,622	70
12	Kingsport	55,254	138	$61,471	71
13	Smyrna	52,802	77	$97,061	74
14	Collierville	52,243	93	$171,503	75
15	Cleveland	46,880	70	$66,762	70
16	Brentwood	44,025	107	$235,878	72
17	Spring Hill	42,910	70	$134,284	73
18	Gallatin	41,372	82	$90,850	66
19	Columbia	40,814	83	$75,114	62
20	Germantown	40,725	52	$182,733	69
21	Mount Juliet	36,915	64	$138,769	71
22	La Vergne	36,426	65	$97,902	64
23	Lebanon	36,126	99	$86,698	70
24	Cookeville	34,916	92	$60,434	76
25	Morristown	30,738	71	$48,963	64
26	Maryville	30,172	44	$96,964	72
27	Oak Ridge	29,938	221	$83,178	78
28	Bristol	27,756	84	$61,633	73
29	Farragut	23,607	41	$161,503	76
30	Shelbyville	22,648	48	$65,045	64
31	East Ridge	21,728	21	$70,911	71
32	Tullahoma	20,737	61	$73,203	66
33	Sevierville	17,729	62	$65,099	58
34	Springfield	17,576	35	$71,850	61
35	Goodlettsville	17,430	37	$83,219	63
36	Dyersburg	16,887	45	$61,410	64
37	Dickson	16,026	52	$79,456	62
38	Seymour	15,784	33	$90,144	64
39	Greeneville	15,421	44	$60,514	66
40	Athens	14,414	40	$53,962	62
41	Elizabethton	14,021	25	$56,817	66
42	McMinnville	13,998	29	$53,957	64
43	Soddy-Daisy	13,883	60	$75,292	68
44	Portland	13,381	37	$83,743	66
45	Lakeland	12,926	61	$157,562	68
46	White House	12,599	29	$119,216	71
47	Middle Valley	12,498	25	$107,780	66
48	Lewisburg	12,475	35	$63,361	59
49	Crossville	12,131	53	$55,544	61
50	Red Bank	12,075	17	$67,342	72

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Tennessee, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.