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Thinking about living in Hendersonville in 2025? Whether you’re relocating to Middle Tennessee, looking for a suburban lifestyle near Nashville, or just curious about what this city has to offer, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Housing costs, school info, crime rates, local events, and even the best places to eat in Hendersonville TN — we break it all down. It was even featured in our 2025 list of the best places to live in Tennessee for families. If you’re looking for other great areas to consider, you might want to check that out too.
In this complete 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons, cost of living, schools, safety, things to do, and more so you can decide if Hendersonville is the right place for you or your family.
What’s Hendersonville TN Like?
Hendersonville is about 25 minutes from downtown Nashville and sits right next to Old Hickory Lake. It’s the biggest city in Sumner County, but still feels laid-back and easy to get around.
People move here for the lake life, the short distance from Nashville, and space to breathe. There are parks, restaurants, shopping centers, youth sports, healthcare, and everything you need without driving too far. It’s a popular spot for families and anyone looking for a slower pace, but still close enough to Nashville when you need it.
It’s also worth noting Hendersonville’s deep ties to music history. Several well-known artists have lived here over the years, adding to the city’s unique character and cultural roots.
Pros and Cons of Hendersonville TN
✅ Pros of Hendersonville TN
Close to Nashville
Hendersonville is only about 25 minutes from downtown Nashville, making it convenient for commuters or anyone who wants quick access to the city.
Lake access and outdoor recreation
The city offers a “lake life” lifestyle with opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and access to waterfront homes on Old Hickory Lake.
Affordable housing options
While prices have increased in recent years, there are still homes available starting around $324,900, which is relatively affordable compared to Nashville.
Suburban with full amenities
Hendersonville provides a suburban environment while still offering shopping, dining, and essential services nearby.
Public parks and community spaces
There are plenty of parks and open areas for recreation, sports, and enjoying time outdoors.
❌ Cons of Hendersonville TN
Increasing traffic
As the city grows, traffic has become heavier, especially during peak commuting hours.
Lack of public transportation
Hendersonville has limited public transit options, which may be a challenge for those who rely on it.
Limited nightlife
The area is relatively quiet in the evenings with fewer nightlife options compared to Nashville.
Limited walkability
Most areas are designed for driving, though some improvements are being made to increase walkability.
Fewer local events
While there are seasonal events and festivals, the calendar of activities may feel limited compared to larger cities.
Cost of Living in Hendersonville TN
The cost of living in Hendersonville TN is generally considered moderate compared to other parts of Middle Tennessee. Here’s a breakdown of key living expenses as of 2025:
Housing
- Median home price: $551,375
- Entry-level home prices: Start around $324,900
- Lower-end rent prices: Around $1,200/month for standard apartments (excluding outliers)
Utilities
Electricity
- Average monthly electricity bill: $170.42
- Electricity rate: 12.92¢ per kWh
(Source: FindEnergy)
Water and Sewer
- Water Rates:
- 0–2,000 gallons: $11.14 minimum
- Over 2,000 gallons: $4.65 per 1,000 gallons
- Sewer Rates:
- 0–2,000 gallons: $13.66 minimum
- Over 2,000 gallons: $5.97 per 1,000 gallons
- Estimated monthly cost:
- Single person: ~$46/month
- Couple: ~$75–$80/month (varies by usage)
Utility Providers
- Hendersonville Utility District
- Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation
- Nashville Electric Service
- Piedmont Natural Gas
Crime Rate in Hendersonville TN
Safety is often one of the most important considerations when deciding where to live. Below is a breakdown of Hendersonville’s crime rates compared to national averages based on 2023 data from the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer.
Violent Crime
Violent crimes include homicide, sexual assault, robbery, and aggravated assault.
- Population: 63,618
- Reported violent crimes: 71
- Crime rate: 111.6 per 100,000 residents
- U.S. crime rate: 368.8 per 100,000 residents
Property Crime
Property crimes include burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson.
- Reported property crimes: 572
- Crime rate: 899.1 per 100,000 residents
- U.S. crime rate: 1,872.3 per 100,000 residents
📉 Hendersonville’s property and violent crime rates are lower than the national average.
Key Demographics of Hendersonville TN
Understanding the demographics of a city can help you get a better feel for the community, economy, and lifestyle. Here are some recent statistics about Hendersonville TN, based on the most recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau.
- Population (2023): 63,618
- High school graduate or higher (age 25+): 95.4%
- Bachelor’s degree or higher (age 25+): 43.6%
- Mean commute time: 29.1 minutes
- Median household income: $91,503
Schools in Henderosnville TN
Hendersonville is served by the Sumner County School District, which includes several elementary, middle, and high schools across the area. If you’re researching schools, programs, or zoning, there are a few helpful tools to guide you.
The Tennessee Department of Education School Finder is a great starting point to explore school performance, student achievement, graduation rates, and teacher qualifications across the state. It’s especially useful for comparing schools side by side.
For more specific information on schools in Hendersonville, the Sumner County Schools website includes links to individual school pages, enrollment and registration info, zoning maps, school board contacts, and bus route details.
Things to do in Hendersonville TN
Hendersonville has plenty to offer when it comes to enjoying your free time. From getting out on Old Hickory Lake to exploring local parks, trails, and community spaces, there’s always something to do. The city also hosts several events throughout the year that bring people together, and for anyone who enjoys trying local restaurants, there’s no shortage of great spots to eat.
Events in Hendersonville TN
Hendersonville Pig Fest: Taking place in October at Veterans Park, this festival includes a backyard BBQ competition, live music, food trucks, vendors, a kids’ zone, and live pig races.
Freedom Festival: Held annually around July 4th at Drakes Creek Park, this is Sumner County’s largest Independence Day celebration, featuring live music, food vendors, and a fireworks display.
Other Events: Hendersonville also hosts a Christmas Parade and a Christmas Boat Parade during the holiday season, both of which draw large crowds and create a festive atmosphere along the lake.
Top Places to Eat in Hendersonville TN (2025 Local Favorites)
Café Rakka – A beloved Mediterranean gem featured on national TV for its bold flavors and locally sourced ingredients.
Demo’s Restaurant – Classic comfort food and pasta dishes served in a casual, family-friendly setting.
Eating Thai – Authentic Thai cuisine with a cozy vibe; known for their spicy curries and fresh ingredients. The curries there are highly recommended.
Dos Margaritas / Casa Vieja – Two of the most popular Mexican restaurants in Hendersonville. Locals debate which is better — both deliver strong margaritas, flavorful dishes, and festive atmospheres.
So, is Hendersonville TN a Good Place to Live?
That depends on what you’re looking for, but for many people, the answer is yes. Hendersonville offers a balance of outdoor activities, nearby city access, shopping, dining, and a strong sense of community. If you enjoy spending time on the lake, relaxing in a suburban setting, or being close to Nashville without living in the middle of it, Hendersonville checks a lot of boxes.
If you’re considering a move here or just want to learn more about what it’s like to live in the area, I’d be happy to help. Call me at 615 775 8303 and let’s talk about what you’re looking for in your next home.
Image Credit: Featured image by Lisa Zins, used under CC BY 2.0. Cropped and resized for formatting.
