The city of Brentwood is just a few miles south of Nashville, the country music capital of the world. In fact, Brentwood is actually a suburb of the state's capital. Home to over 41,000 residents, Brentwood is well-loved by the individuals who have chosen to grow roots in the area. The city offers a number of restaurants, bars, parks, and activities for residents to enjoy throughout the year.

Despite its proximity to the large city of Nashville, Brentwood offers its residents a rural feel in most neighborhoods. For those planning a move to the area, the following information details all there is to know about relocating to Brentwood.

10 Reasons Brentwood Is a Great Place to Live

1. Plenty of Schools: Brentwood is known for its 50 public schools catering to students of all ages.
2. Strong Sense of Community: The city boasts a tight-knit community feel, with plenty of community events, local clubs, and organizations that foster a strong sense of belonging among residents.
3. Easy Nashville Commutes: Located off I-65, living in Brentwood provides easy drive times to Downtown Nashville.
4. Beautiful Parks and Recreation: The city is home to numerous parks, trails, and green spaces, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and leisure. 
5. High-Quality Housing: Brentwood is synonymous with luxury. The most expensive neighborhoods in Brentwood are proof!
6. Convenient Location: Situated just south of Nashville, Brentwood provides easy access to the amenities and job opportunities of the city while maintaining a quieter, suburban feel. This location is perfect for those who work in Nashville but prefer to live in a more peaceful setting.
7. Economic Stability: Brentwood's economy is robust, with low unemployment rates and a strong job market, particularly in sectors like healthcare, education, and finance. This economic stability makes it a wise investment for homebuyers.
8. Rich Cultural Scene: Although Brentwood itself offers a serene suburban lifestyle, its proximity to Nashville means residents can easily enjoy the vibrant music scene, cultural events, and culinary delights of the capital city.
9. Luxury Amenities: The area is home to upscale shopping centers, gourmet dining options, and luxury spas and fitness centers, catering to the sophisticated tastes of its residents.
10. Outdoor Activities: Beyond the parks and trails, Brentwood's location in the rolling hills of Tennessee offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and boating at nearby lakes and rivers.

Cost of Living in Brentwood

Brentwood stands out as one of the state's most expensive cities, with a cost of living approximately 40% higher than the national average in the United States. This elevated cost of living is even more pronounced when compared to the rest of Tennessee, with expenses about 55% higher, marking Brentwood as one of the priciest municipalities within the state. The factors contributing to this high cost of living encompass various aspects of daily life, from housing to groceries and transportation, reflecting the premium quality of life and amenities available to the residents of Brentwood.

The housing market in Brentwood significantly contributes to its high cost of living, with the median home price hovering around $1.2 million. This market presents a broad range of properties, where homes in Brentwood's most affordable neighborhoods start at around $500,000. On the other end of the spectrum, the most luxurious real estate in Brentwood can command prices between $5 million and $10 million, showcasing the city's appeal to those seeking exclusive and opulent living spaces.

Over 90% of residents in Brentwood own their homes, which has created a competitive rental market. Whether renting an apartment, condo, or home, few units are available and those that are boast a high monthly rent. A studio begins at $1,200, and the average one-bedroom apartment starts at $1,310. Single-family home rental prices range from $1,590 to $2,510 or more.

The average resident in Brentwood receives an annual salary of $63,000. A household in Brentwood can expect to generate $151,722, which is over $100,000 more than the average United States household. Better still, Tennessee does not have a state income tax, which saves Brentwood residents 4.6% of their income on average every year. However, the Brentwood area does have a high sales tax of 9.3%, which is 2% higher than the United States average. Overall, the high salaries and lack of income tax do significantly counteract the high cost of living in Brentwood.

Brentwood Job Market

The Brentwood area is expected to see over a 50% growth in its job market over the next decade. The city has continued to grow over the years and welcomed many businesses into the area. In fact, a number of large corporations have created their headquarters in Brentwood, including Tractor Supply Company, LifePoint Health, Comdata, MDsave, and Kirklands. Comdata is the largest employer with over 1,110 employees, while Tractor Supply Company employs 854 workers. Other large employers include AT&T, DaVita, Cogent, Lattimore Black Morgan & Cain, and the City of Brentwood.

Popular Industries in the Area

Brentwood is home to numerous businesses in a variety of industries. The proximity to Nashville has encouraged rapid growth in industries across Brentwood. The largest of these industries include education and health care, employing over 8,000 Brentwood residents. Other popular industries in Brentwood are science, finance, insurance, retail, and entertainment, employing nearly 7,000 residents combined.

Things to Do in Brentwood

Brentwood offers its residents a variety of things to do every season. From indoor and outdoor physical activities to restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, there is something for everyone to do in Brentwood. Anyone with a spirit of adventure, appreciation for music, and taste for the best Southern food in the area can and will enjoy living in Brentwood.

Outdoor Activities

The outdoor activities in Brentwood were created with residents and their four-legged friends in mind. Over 14 parks are open year-round for residents to enjoy, and Brentwood's best trails are always a delight. Other outdoor activities in Brentwood include the Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory, Williamson County Indoor Sports Complex, and Brentwood Skate Center.

Restaurants, Breweries, and Bars

While Brentwood is home to a number of excellent restaurants, Mere Bulles, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, and Vittles are rated as the best restaurants in Brentwood year after year. When residents aren't in the mood for luxurious dishes, they can be found stopping around the city for the area's best Southern food.

Breweries can quickly be accessed by taking a short drive to Nashville. The closest of these breweries to Brentwood is The Black Abbey Brewing Company. Other highly rated breweries in the area include Harding House Brewing Co., Nashville Brewing Company, and Jackalope Brewing Company.

Almost every restaurant in Brentwood offers a full-service bar. Those seeking out the local watering holes in order to make new friends and connect with locals can visit the Corner Pub, The Edge Bar & Grill, and 55 South most nights of the week.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Brentwood city limits is limited to bars. Most bars offer some late-night fun over the weekends. Those seeking more variety in their nightlife will need to visit Franklin and Nashville. Both cities offer clubs, high bars, and adult arcades.

Brentwood Climate

Brentwood has a climate comfort index of 7.3 out of 10, making it one of the most comfortable areas in both Tennessee and the United States. With over 210 days of sunshine each year, residents in Brentwood experience more sunny days than other cities in the United States. Fortunately, the area only sees 120 days or less with precipitation, which means there is more time to get outside and enjoy everything Brentwood has to offer.

The average summer high in Brentwood is 89º F. Only 38 days in the summer exceed 90° F, which makes the summer more comfortable than other areas in Tennessee. On the other hand, the winter low is 26° F, and over 90 days fall below freezing. However, only four inches of snow cover Brentwood every year. The area experiences rain all year long and typically accumulates over 50 inches.

The most pleasant months of the year in Brentwood are May, September, and October due to the average 70-degree temperature and light breeze. Brentwood is just far enough north that residents can even enjoy a change in the leaves when autumn begins.

Brentwood Traffic

The average Brentwood resident has a commute of 25 minutes or less. This is just slightly less than the United States average of 26 minutes. Over 85% of residents rely on their own vehicles to get to and from work every day. Nearly 7% carpool, which slightly helps the rush-hour congestion. Over 8% of Brentwood residents work from home, and the number is expected to increase each year.

The City of Brentwood has worked over the years to improve its traffic. Nearly 50 intersections in the city can be monitored throughout the day through the city's Traffic Operations Center, which has improved traffic conditions over the years and has helped residents reach their destinations sooner. Plans are in place to add more intersections to the network. The long-term goal is to have all intersections on the network to ensure optimal traffic conditions at all times.

Alternative Routes

Within Brentwood city limits, people can take Franklin Road/U.S. Highway 31 in place of Interstate 65. The Traffic Operations Center keeps most traffic lights at a 4-minute-or-less wait during the heaviest congestion.

Residents can take a more scenic drive to Nashville by taking Highway 431 to the west and Highway 41A to the east. These routes only add 10 minutes to the drive and have significantly less traffic. If Brentwood residents are traveling into Nashville often, it is always recommended for them to take the highways in place of the interstates in order to avoid traffic.

Brentwood Public Transportation

Public transportation options in Brentwood are limited. However, the city has the A-1 Brentwood/Franklin Taxi company, which offers special rates to the airport and even certain local routes.

Those looking for regional public transportation can turn to the Nashville Metropolitan Transit Authority. With stops throughout the region, Brentwood residents can get to their destination quickly and safely. A one-way pass is $2, while an all-day pass is $4. Those who ride often can opt for a seven-day pass for $20, a 20-ride pass for $40, or a 31-day pass for $65.

Brentwood Schools

To fully embrace the educational opportunities in Brentwood, explore the diverse range of schools available in the area. With a total of 50 schools in Brentwood, you have access to a wide array of educational options. The city provides more than $230,000 per year to support technology advancements in Brentwood classrooms. Over the past three decades, the amount donated has exceeded $5 million, ensuring that classrooms are always up-to-date. 

Private schools in and around Brentwood encourage choice. Currey Ingram Academy is renowned for its specialized approach to education, catering to students with unique learning needs from kindergarten through 12th grade. The day and boarding school is dedicated to empowering students with learning differences to achieve their fullest potential. With a strong emphasis on individualized learning plans, the academy offers a supportive environment that includes small class sizes, specialized instruction, and a wide range of therapies and services tailored to meet the diverse needs of its students. Brentwood Academy is known for its comprehensive educational program that combines rigorous academics, competitive athletics, and a deep commitment to Christian values. Serving students in grades 6 through 12, the academy prides itself on developing the whole person—intellectually, physically, socially, and spiritually.

Final Considerations for Moving to Brentwood

Brentwood offers its residents a variety of activities that are fun for all. Despite the higher cost of living, most Brentwood residents make an above-average salary and will see the job market continue to grow. With comfortable temperatures, a short commute time, and proximity to Nashville, there are many benefits of living in the Brentwood community whether people seek outdoor adventures or want to learn something new while in the comfort of historical buildings, Brentwood continues to bring new offerings to the area.

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