When it comes to raising a family in Nashville, proximity to the city doesn’t have to come at the expense of peace, privacy, or community. Some of the most sought-after family-friendly suburbs sit quietly within Nashville (Davidson County) — offering beautiful homes, exceptional schools, and a lifestyle that blends Southern warmth with urban convenience.
If you’re looking to put down roots, these five neighborhoods rise above the rest:
1. Forest Hills
Vibe: Secluded, scenic, and sophisticated
Average Home Price: $2M+
Commute to Downtown: ~20 minutes
School Access: Close to top-tier private schools (Ensworth, CPA, Harpeth Hall)
With its winding roads, mature trees, and breathtaking views, Forest Hills feels like a countryside retreat — without ever leaving the city. Estate-style homes sit on generous lots, often tucked behind canopies of green. Families love the privacy, access to Radnor Lake State Park, and proximity to some of Nashville’s finest private schools.
2. Belle Meade
Vibe: Historic prestige with enduring elegance
Average Home Price: $3M+
Commute to Downtown: ~15 minutes
School Access: Close to premier private schools nearby (MBA, Harpeth Hall, Ensworth)
Few neighborhoods carry the cachet of Belle Meade. Known for its iconic estates, manicured lawns, and equestrian roots, this neighborhood blends tradition with refinement. Families are drawn to the quiet streets, proximity to Percy Warner Park, and its deeply rooted sense of Nashville history. It’s upscale living with timeless appeal.
3. Oak Hill
Vibe: Classic, understated, and family-first
Average Home Price: $2M+
Commute to Downtown: ~15 minutes
School Access: Near Ensworth, Brentwood Academy, and Lipscomb Academy
Bordering Forest Hills and Radnor Lake, Oak Hill offers the perfect blend of privacy and proximity. Wide lots, quiet streets, and traditional Southern architecture make it ideal for families seeking long-term stability. Whether you’re walking the trails at Radnor or hosting friends in a spacious backyard, life here is intentional — and beautifully laid out.
4. Green Hills
Vibe: Walkable, refined, and effortlessly convenient
Average Home Price: $1.3M+
Commute to Downtown: ~10–15 minutes
School Access: Close to Lipscomb Academy, Overbrook, and Father Ryan
Green Hills strikes a rare balance — polished but not pretentious, family-focused yet full of energy. Known for The Mall at Green Hills, boutique fitness studios, and highly rated schools, it’s ideal for parents who want convenience woven into daily life. The mix of renovated cottages and new builds offers variety, while sidewalks and shopping add a layer of livability that’s hard to beat.
5. 12 South
Vibe: Trendy, tight-knit, and full of personality
Average Home Price: $1.8M+
Commute to Downtown: ~5–10 minutes
School Access: Close to magnet programs like Meigs and Hume-Fogg
12 South is where community meets culture. Known for its historic homes, tree-lined streets, and local shops, this neighborhood delivers walkability in a way few others can. Families enjoy afternoons at Sevier Park, coffee dates at Frothy Monkey, and neighborhood events that bring everyone out on the lawn. It’s urban-suburban living with a friendly, front-porch feel.
Your Family’s Next Chapter Starts Here
Choosing the right neighborhood is about more than location — it’s about lifestyle. Whether your family is drawn to the wooded privacy of Forest Hills or the energetic charm of 12 South, Nashville offers a rare opportunity: to raise a family in a place that feels both grounded and inspiring.
Let’s find your place in Nashville.
From private showings to personalized neighborhood insights, we’re here to guide you — every step of the way. Check out more information in our neighborhood guide here or explore neighborhoods in Nashville.
