The Top 5 College Towns in Tennessee

When it comes to college towns, some people are there to get an education and get out, but others love everything the college town life has to offer. From the coffee shops, to the late night options for food and the great culture that comes along with having the town built around colleges and universities.

No matter if you are on the cusp of applying for schools or have found yourself missing the life that comes from a college town, there’s plenty of options right here within Tennessee. With all those options it might be hard to see which might be right for you, but here’s a few of the best options to make the decision that little bit easier.

Martin

This is the perfect option for those looking for the college town lifestyle all while keeping life on the quieter side. It’s one of the smaller options here population wise but don’t think that translates into having nothing to do.

There’s plenty of options when it comes to food from the Martin Coffeehouse for an unforgettable latte, to The Grind Mac and Cheese Burger Bar to grab yourself the burger you didn’t know you needed.

Collegedale

College is right in the name, so it’s hard to think Collegedale isn’t going to have what you’re looking for when it comes to life in a college town. With options like Rafael’s Pizzeria and Corners Cafe, there’s going to be plenty to enjoy downtown, all while feeling comfortable knowing that the crime rate is 22% lower than the national average.

That’s a major part in what makes Collegedale a great place to get an education but also a place to stay and raise your family.

Murfreesboro

You don’t have to be studying history to be obsessed with it. If this sounds like you, Murfreesboro might be your next place to settle down. Alongside every other perk of life in a college town, you’ll also be able to explore every inch of Stones River National Battlefield as well as Cannonsburgh Village to see what life was like during the 19th century.

Knoxville

This is an amazing example of college being the thing that’s pulled you into town, but everything else there is going to have you looking at Knoxville real estate before you’re even halfway through undergrad. “What else does the town offer?” you’re asking? The list seems endless but a few highlights include Zoo Knoxville, home to over 900 different animals, as well as multiple places to get your culture fix from the Tennessee Theatre to the East Tennessee History Center and the McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture.

Memphis

Some crave the small town life of a place like Martin but others feel a little ill at ease when they get too far from the bustle of the city. For those looking not to choose between the city life and the perks of a college town, Memphis might very well be the best option.

For major universities or community college, you’ll find whatever education you are looking for in Memphis all alongside an amazing city experience.