A new study calculated the “Fastest Growing Cities in America,” and the towns at the top might surprise you — there’s a whole lotta Texas (not so surprising), a little California (not surprising) and, at No. 13: Middle Tennessee’s own charming college town, Murfreesboro (kinda surprising!).
The calculations were based on population increases between July of 2014 and ’15, and focused on cities with more than 50,000 people. Sure, we’ve heard a steady din of shouts about Nashville’s speedy growth. But if it’s seemed like Nashville’s neighbors to the southeast were being forgotten, that apparently couldn’t be further from the truth.
What’s the draw toward the geographical center of the state and former Tennessee capital? Just guesses, but: there’s having Middle Tennessee State University based there, bringing lots of jobs and a jolt of exciting creativity and culture (it’s the largest undergraduate university in Tennessee, with about 25,000 students); there’s historic charm (from Main Street/the Square to the time-capsulesque Cannonsburgh Village); and the proximity to Nashville and affordable cost of living probably don’t hurt, either.
As Murfreesboro blooms, city reps are laser-focused on making the growth work well, too — Murfreesboro 2035, a two-year comprehensive planning process focused on improving transportation, housing, historic preservation, economic development and more is under way, with lots of input/contribution from ‘Boro citizens.
So, it’s an exciting time to be in Murfreesboro — which means it could be a good time to consider calling it home.
If you’re giving some thought to exploring the ‘Boro, here’s a quick cross section of what the housing market looks like, with homes on the market now that caught our eyes.
Homes on the market in Murfreesboro, TN:
2365 Bridgeway St
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
PRICE: $269,900
More inclined toward the easy upkeep of townhome living? This one is expansive, as townhomes go — 2100-plus square feet — with lots of upscale details, a two-car garage and large screened-patio, so you’re not missing out on outdoor living space, even as you’re avoiding spending your weekends on outdoor chores. Plenty of community perks, too, including a pool and a gym.
2627 Tellyman Ave
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
PRICE: $289,900
Well-kept red brick family homes are all around Murfreesboro — this one’s a nice example. Room to spread out, with 4 beds, 3 baths, and 2600-plus square feet, plus a manicured, fenced lot for kids/dogs/enjoying the out-of-doors.
2408 Dewington Drive – Lot 189
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
PRICE: $334,999
With growth comes lots of new, upscale construction — it abounds in Murfreesboro right now, at per-square-foot prices that are a fraction of most Nashville neighborhoods. Take this new, large family home, with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and 2733 square feet: You have hardwoods, granite, major master suite, bonus room with wet bar and more, at $123 a square foot asking.
617 Cranor Rd
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
PRICE: $309,900
Brick builds don’t do it for you? This cute, custom property has a Craftsman-style exterior mix of stone and wood, and lots of details that stand out, plus a huge property — more than 5 acres.
550 East Main Street E
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
PRICE: $489,900
That historic charm mentioned above? Here yo go. Built in 1890, with 5 beds, 4 1/2 baths and almost 5,000 square feet, this Main Street beauty is seriously breathtaking, with original details (the hardwoods, woodwork and fireplaces will have any historic home aficionado making googley eyes) and smart and tasteful updates. Asking price: $101 a square foot.
801 Mooreland Ln
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
PRICE: $8,900,000
Looking for luxury? Murfreesboro has its share of expansive, upscale estates too. This is something of an extreme example, but it’s extremely fun to ogle. With more than 23,000 square feet, every one of those feet truly fit for royalty, the home has a basketball court, tennis court, indoor and outdoor pool, bowling alley… it even has its own little waterfall.
Intrigued by the idea of growing Murfreesboro? We’d be glad to show you around, and give you a sense of how far your budget can go there. (That goes for any other part of Middle Tennessee, too.) Give us a call and tell us about what you have in mind!