With so many desirable areas across Middle Tennessee, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start or which location truly fits your lifestyle.
For many luxury buyers, the question eventually becomes:
Where should we live: Brentwood, Franklin, or Nashville?
While there are many incredible pockets across the region, most luxury buyers ultimately narrow their decision to these three core areas. Each offers a distinct lifestyle, pace, and definition of luxury.
As local real estate experts deeply rooted in Williamson County and Nashville, we help buyers make this decision by focusing on how they want to live, not just what the home looks like on paper.
This guide walks through what to consider first, then breaks down what Brentwood, Franklin, and Nashville truly offer so you can choose with clarity and confidence.
Start With the Big Picture: What Are You Really Looking For?
Luxury buyers often come to us with a location in mind, but after conversations, tours, and lifestyle mapping, that location sometimes changes.
Before comparing Brentwood, Franklin, and Nashville, ask yourself:
- Lifestyle: Quiet and private or energetic and walkable?
- Home Style: Estate homes, new construction, historic charm, or luxury condos?
- Lot Size & Privacy: Acreage vs. neighborhood living
- Schools: Public vs. private, proximity, and long-term value
- Commute & Access: Downtown, airport, and daily drive preferences
- Community Feel: Family-focused, social, or low-key?
- Long-Term Investment: Appreciation, resale demand, and market stability
Once these priorities are clear, you can start to see which areas align best with what you want.
Brentwood: Refined, Private, and Exceptionally Located
Best for: Executives, relocating families, buyers seeking privacy with convenience
Brentwood is known for understated luxury. With rolling hills, gated communities, and estate-style homes, it offers a polished, residential lifestyle just 15–20 minutes from downtown Nashville.
What Defines Brentwood Luxury
- Large estate homes and custom builds
- Gated communities and private neighborhoods
- Top-rated Williamson County Schools
- Quick access to I-65, Green Hills, and Cool Springs
- A quiet, refined atmosphere with upscale amenities nearby
The Lifestyle
Brentwood appeals to buyers who want space, privacy, and prestige without sacrificing proximity. While it isn’t walkable in the traditional sense, daily conveniences, fine dining, and shopping are easily accessible.
Why buyers choose Brentwood: Predictability, long-term value, and a peaceful luxury lifestyle close to the city.
Franklin: Character, Community, and Elevated Living
Best for: Buyers who want charm, connection, and a strong sense of place
Franklin offers a rare blend of historic character and modern luxury. From its iconic downtown to newer luxury developments and countryside estates, Franklin provides variety while maintaining a cohesive community feel.
What Defines Franklin Luxury
- Historic downtown with boutiques, dining, and events
- Luxury neighborhoods, custom homes, and gated communities
- Larger lots, rolling land, and equestrian properties
- Strong schools and family-oriented amenities
- Easy access to Cool Springs shopping and corporate hubs
The Lifestyle
Franklin attracts buyers who value community and charm just as much as the home itself. You can enjoy a walkable downtown atmosphere, seasonal events, and then retreat to a private residence minutes away.
Why buyers choose Franklin: Timeless appeal, lifestyle depth, and a balance of tradition and growth.
Nashville: Urban Energy and Lifestyle Flexibility
Best for: Buyers seeking walkability, culture, and proximity
Nashville offers the most diverse luxury landscape in Middle Tennessee. From the urban core of Downtown to walkable districts like The Gulch, the city provides options for buyers who want to be close to the action.
What Defines Nashville Luxury
- High-end condos and penthouses downtown
- Walkable districts like The Gulch with dining, fitness, and nightlife
- Proximity to major employers, entertainment, and sports venues
- Access to top private schools and cultural institutions
The Lifestyle
Living in Nashville means choice and energy. Some buyers prioritize skyline views and concierge living, while others want a central neighborhood close to everything.
Why buyers choose Nashville: Walkability, cultural access, and lifestyle convenience.
So, How Do Luxury Buyers Decide?
- Choose Brentwood if privacy, prestige, and proximity matter most.
- Choose Franklin if you want charm, community, and long-term lifestyle value.
- Choose Nashville if walkability, culture, and flexibility are top priorities.
Many buyers explore all three before making a final decision, and that process often brings clarity they didn’t expect.
Your Local Experts in Williamson County & Nashville
At The Jernigan Group, we specialize in guiding luxury buyers through nuanced location decisions across Brentwood, Franklin, and Nashville. Our role isn’t just to show homes, it’s to help you understand the lifestyle, market dynamics, and long-term implications of where you choose to live.
Whether you’re relocating, upgrading, or simply exploring options, we’re here to be your trusted local resource.
Luxury living starts with choosing the right place to call home.