living in Franklin Tennessee pros and cons

Franklin·8 min·

Here are the top 10 pros and cons of living […]

living in franklin tennessee pros and cons
Here are the top 10 pros and cons of living in Franklin Tennessee

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Cons of living in Franklin, TN

Perception VS Reality

People considering moving to Franklin, Tennessee, from out of state may have a different perception than reality. For example, we’ve taken buyers out to tour homes and gotten caught up in traffic. Our buyers were shocked that there was traffic. They were moving out of a busy area in a different part of the country and wanted to find a place with everything they were used to except without the traffic.

Culture Clash

Old versus new is a reality in Franklin, Tennessee. Some have grown up for multiple generations and resent people moving in from out of state. They don’t like the drastic changes that have occurred. They remember when Franklin was a small country town no one knew about. It was their secret. Now that the secret’s out, they feel disorientated and like their way of life is changing too much for their taste. Many of these native Tennesseans have enjoyed the benefit of selling all or portions of their land at steep profits.

The majority of residents of Franklin, Tennessee, were not born there. This provides commonality for many that are moving in from out of state. In addition, most inbound home buyers have chosen to move to Franklin because they like the small country southern charm of it. They appreciate the manners and hospitality of the culture and want to help maintain it. This appreciation and respect helps to ease the transition for those moving in and those who have lived in Franklin all or most of their lives.

Growing Pains

Franklin, TN, was a quiet, hidden, small country town. Those days are over. It’s one of the most popular inbound cities in the country. This has caused some growing pains and infrastructure issues. Franklin, Tennessee, could be considered by some to be “busting at the seams.” There are certain areas and times of the day when you can feel that in terms of traffic. Finding out how best to choose the right neighborhood regarding your logistical needs is essential.

Winter

Winter lasts from December through February. Occasionally, there is snow that typically melts by noon. The roads experience icy conditions intermittently throughout winter. Many roads are salted, but having a vehicle and tires that can handle snow and ice is a good idea.

Summer

Summer is from June through August. It can be hot and humid. Bugs such as mosquitoes are present, especially with no standing water. The greenery grows like a tropical rainforest. Schedule yard work every week during the summer.

No Mountains

The closest mountain to Franklin, Tennessee, is the Smoky Mountains. If you want an actual hike, you must drive at least 4 hours to get to it. There are trails in and near Franklin. However, they are on easy to moderate, gently rolling hills.

Hard to See a Sunset

There are so many trees and so few high points in Franklin, Tennessee, that it’s hard to get a clear view of a sunset. The same is true of a rainbow. If this is important to you, you’ll want to seek a home on one of the few high points. If the land is not cleared of trees, you’ll also need to plan to do that to get a clear view.

Tornadoes

Tornadoes do occur every year in Tennessee. Many of them touch down briefly with strong wind conditions. Many older and larger new homes have underground or partially underground basements to provide safety in case of a tornado. In contrast, many new homes are built on a slab foundation without a basement. This is often done to save on the construction budget. Tornadoes can cause substantial damage. You’ll want to consider a basement and your homeowners’ insurance policy.

Proximity to Beaches

It is an hour’s flight or a seven-hour drive to the nearest beaches. Florida and Alabama offer a wide variety of beaches. Many Franklin, Tennessee residents have second homes and investment properties in Florida.

Proximity to Skiing and Snowboarding

If you love to ski or snowboard, your nearest slopes are a five-hour drive or an hour’s flight in Indiana.

 

Pros of living in Frankin, Tennessee

  • Family Friendly
  • Slower Culture
  • Volunteer State
  • Events: music, sports, conferences
  • Jobs
  • Country Setting
  • 4 Seasons
  • Sledding Snow
  • Great Airport
  • Tons of Shopping

Franklin, Tennessee, is a charming and historic city that attracts residents and tourists for various reasons. Here are some additional pros of living in Franklin, Tennessee:

  1. Historic Atmosphere: Franklin boasts a well-preserved historic downtown with brick-lined streets, Victorian architecture, and a vibrant Main Street. Residents and visitors enjoy the charm of the city’s history.
  2. Quality of Life: The city is known for its high quality of life, offering a mix of cultural amenities, recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community.
  3. Strong Economy: Franklin has a diverse and robust economy, with a mix of industries, including healthcare, technology, and manufacturing. Low unemployment rates contribute to the city’s economic stability.
  4. Education: The Williamson County School District, which includes Franklin, is known for its high-quality schools. The area provides good educational opportunities for families with public and private options.
  5. Healthcare Hub: With the presence of the Williamson Medical Center and proximity to Nashville’s healthcare institutions, residents have access to quality healthcare services.
  6. Cultural and Entertainment Scene: Franklin hosts various cultural events, festivals, and live music performances. The city also has various restaurants, shops, and galleries, contributing to a vibrant entertainment scene.
  7. Scenic Beauty: The Middle Tennessee region, including Franklin, is known for its picturesque landscapes. Residents can enjoy the scenic beauty of rolling hills, farms, and countryside.
  8. Family-Friendly: Franklin is often considered a family-friendly community with safe neighborhoods, parks, and recreational facilities. There are numerous family-oriented events and activities throughout the year.
  9. Community Engagement: The city encourages community engagement through local events, farmer’s markets, and civic activities. Residents often feel a strong sense of belonging and connection.
  10. Proximity to Nashville: Franklin is located just south of Nashville, providing easy access to the amenities of a larger city, including professional sports, a lively music scene, and diverse cultural offerings.
  11. Outdoor Activities: The region offers various outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and water-related activities. Nearby parks and nature reserves provide opportunities for residents to enjoy the outdoors.
  12. Real Estate Options: Franklin offers a range of housing options, from historic homes in the downtown area to newer developments. The real estate market caters to different preferences and budgets.

It’s important to note that individual preferences vary, and what may be a pro for one person might not be as significant for another. Prospective residents should consider their specific needs, lifestyle preferences, and priorities when evaluating the suitability of Franklin, Tennessee, as a place to live.

While Franklin, Tennessee, is desirable for many, it’s essential to consider potential drawbacks. Here are some cons associated with living in Franklin:

  1. Cost of Living: Franklin has a relatively higher cost of living than the national average. Housing costs, property taxes, and overall expenses may be higher, particularly in specific neighborhoods.
  2. Traffic Congestion: Like many growing areas, Franklin can experience traffic congestion, especially during rush hours. Commuting to nearby Nashville may involve dealing with traffic daily.
  3. Limited Public Transportation: Public transportation options are limited, and the area is primarily car-dependent. Residents may need a personal vehicle for daily activities, as public transit services are not as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas.
  4. Weather: While Middle Tennessee generally experiences mild winters, summers can be hot and humid. Some residents may find the weather less appealing, depending on personal preferences.
  5. Population Growth: In recent years, Franklin has seen significant population growth, leading to increased development. Some residents may be concerned about the impact of ongoing growth on the city’s character and infrastructure.
  6. Education Funding: While Williamson County schools are generally well-regarded, there have been occasional concerns about funding for public education. Rapid population growth has led to increased demands on the school system.
  7. Limited Diversity: Franklin, like many suburban areas, may lack the cultural and ethnic diversity found in larger cities. This can impact the variety of cultural experiences and perspectives available.
  8. Entertainment Options: While Franklin has a vibrant local scene, some residents may find it offers fewer entertainment options than larger cities like Nashville. This may be a consideration for those seeking a more urban lifestyle.
  9. Limited Employment Diversity: While Franklin has various industries, the employment landscape may not be as diverse as in larger cities. Some residents may need to commute to Nashville for specific job opportunities.
  10. Natural Disasters: Tennessee is prone to certain natural disasters, such as tornadoes and severe storms. While not exclusive to Franklin, residents should be prepared for such occurrences.
  11. Preservation Restrictions: In the historic downtown area, there may be restrictions on renovations and changes to preserve the character of the neighborhood. This could impact those who prefer more extensive customization of their homes.
  12. Potential for Overdevelopment: Some residents express concerns about the potential for overdevelopment and the impact on open spaces and the environment as the area grows.

As with any location, the pros and cons of living in Franklin are subjective and depend on individual preferences, priorities, and circumstances. Prospective residents should weigh these factors based on their needs and lifestyle preferences.

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