Finding the best small town to live in Tennessee is pretty hard, especially since there are SO MANY gorgeous and sweet small towns in Tennessee to raise a family. Whether you’re looking for an affordable home near the city, a quiet country ranch house, or a suburb for the kids we have the perfect place for you to settle down. Grab a cup of coffee and go on a drive, folks – through our beautiful state to your new home in one of the best small towns in Tennessee.

10. Tellico Plains
Tellico Plains, TN 37385, USA
Guillame Capron - Flickr
Tellico Plains is known as one of the most beautiful towns in Tennessee, a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the east. If you're looking for affordable homes, gorgeous views and a spot deep in the country then this might be the spot for you.
9. Spring Hill
Spring Hill, TN, USA
Michael Noirot - Flickr
Spring Hill is a little bit bigger, a small town that experienced a massive growth spurt due to all the new home construction and job opportunities. Roughly forty-five minutes to an hour outside of Nashville, Spring Hill boasts great schools and a solid mix between country and suburban atmospheres.
8. Bell Buckle
Bell Buckle, TN 37020, USA
Official Bell Buckle Chamber - Facebook
Known for its annual RC Cola and Moon Pie Festival, the tiny town of Bell Buckle boasts historic homes and one of the sweetest communities in the state.
7. Pulaski
Pulaski, TN 38478, USA
Ahren - Flickr
Pulaski has less than 10,000 inhabitants, but still has a great school system and cute downtown area. Wander downtown and buy one of their highly affordable homes if you're looking for solid country living in the heart of the south. It's also revered as one of the best towns for foodies in Tennessee.
6. Townsend
Townsend, TN 37882, USA
Martin Lewison - Flickr
You can visit the Great Smoky Mountains from Townsend as well as the Tuckaleechee Caverns, both perfect for day trips and family time out and about in nature, which is part of the reason Townsend is touted as best small town in Tennessee.

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5. Walland
Walland, TN 37886, USA
Kevin Oliver - Flickr
Only 259 people live in Walland, and most tend to attribute the rural community to the famed Blackberry Farm and its restaurant, which has been named one of the best in the world. It's a lush, stunning area that's perfect for loners and nature lovers alike.
4. Arlington
Arlington, TN, USA
Town of Arlington, Tennessee Government - Facebook
Located in Shelby County, Arlington is a great suburb of Memphis for the daily commuter. Infused with a lush greenery and expanding park system, this is a great spot for folks beginning their family.
3. Sewanee
Sewanee, TN, USA
Michael Hicks - Flickr
One of the most overlooked town in Tennessee, Sewanee is tucked away in the hill country! Roughly two hours from Nashville, Sewanee is home to the University of the South and tends to be one of the younger cities in the state. Small and tight, this is one community that would welcome you with open arms.
2. Covington
Covington, TN, USA
Brent Moore - Flickr
Tipton County is one of the fastest growing in the state, and Covington is the largest city within it - at 9,000 inhabitants. If that doesn't give you a taste of the rural county we don't know what will! It's got something else going for it, too. It's among the most historic towns in Tennessee.
1. Columbia
Facebook/Columbia Council

So, do you agree? Are these the best small towns in Tennessee? What other towns would you add to this list? Tell us!

If you’re looking for a little something more to do, consider taking a trip to these lesser-known state parks in Tennessee.

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More to Explore

Best Small Towns In Tennessee

Daniella DiRienzo | May 12, 2022

What is the most scenic town in Tennessee?

There are so many beautiful towns in Tennessee, but when it comes to the most scenic town in Tennessee, that distinction goes to Gatlinburg. Over the years, the picturesque town has received numerous accolades, including being dubbed one of the most beautiful towns in the U.S. in 2018 by Architectural Digest. Definitely worthy of the praise, Gatlinburg is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true, serving as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. There are several ways to take in the town’s stunning sights – from hiking to a tram ride.

Where is the creepiest town in Tennessee?

The best small towns in Tennessee aren’t the only towns that belong on your bucket list. There’s also Elkmont, the most famous ghost town in Tennessee. Sure, the area is home to one of the largest and busiest campgrounds in Great Smoky Mountain National Park. And yes, it offers access to Little River and Jakes Creek as well as numerous hiking trails. But above all that, it’s known for being abandoned. Visitors today can explore what’s left of Elkmont, which includes a mix of dilapidated and preserved structures.

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