Center of Tennessee
Murfreesboro Is the Geographic Heart of the Volunteer State
Located at the crossroads of Tennessee, Murfreesboro serves as the geographic center of the state and a thriving hub for business, culture, and community.
Murfreesboro: The Center of Tennessee
Geographic Location
Near the center of Tennessee
Marked on Old Lascassas Pike
Distance to Nashville
34 miles southeast
~35 minutes via I-24
Growth Status
Fastest-growing in TN
Rutherford County seat
The Geographic Center of Tennessee
Murfreesboro holds the distinction of being located near the geographic center of Tennessee. A historical marker on Old Lascassas Pike commemorates this significant geographic feature, making Murfreesboro one of Tennessee`s most strategically positioned cities. This central location has shaped the city`s development and importance throughout Tennessee`s history.
The city`s position at the heart of Tennessee makes it uniquely situated to serve as a connector between regions. Whether traveling from Memphis in West Tennessee to Knoxville in East Tennessee, or from the plateau regions of Middle Tennessee, the path often leads through Murfreesboro. This geographic advantage has made the city a natural crossroads for commerce, culture, and community.
Why Murfreesboro`s Central Location Matters
Travel Connectivity
Roughly equidistant from Memphis and the Smoky Mountains, Murfreesboro`s central position makes it an ideal hub for travel and exploration across Tennessee.
Business Hub
The central location attracts businesses seeking to serve customers across Middle Tennessee. Murfreesboro`s strategic position reduces travel time to key markets.
Regional Gateway
As the geographic center, Murfreesboro serves as a natural gateway to exploring different regions of Tennessee with minimal travel time.
One of Tennessee`s Fastest-Growing Cities
Murfreesboro`s central location, combined with affordable cost of living and proximity to Nashville, has made it one of the fastest-growing cities in Tennessee. The city offers the benefits of a growing metropolitan area without the high cost of living found in larger urban centers. Home to Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), a strong job market, and excellent schools and infrastructure, Murfreesboro continues to attract residents, families, and businesses from across the region and the nation.
Gateway to Middle Tennessee
From its central location in Middle Tennessee, Murfreesboro serves as a perfect base for exploring the region. Nashville is just 34 miles away via I-24, making it easy to access the state capital`s attractions, restaurants, and entertainment. Yet Murfreesboro offers its own vibrant downtown, cultural attractions, dining, and entertainment options.
Day trips from Murfreesboro can take you to waterfalls in the Cumberland Plateau, historic sites across Middle Tennessee, outdoor recreation, shopping, and dining experiences. The central location makes Murfreesboro an ideal home base for experiencing the best of Tennessee without long commutes or travel times.
Things to Do in Murfreesboro
Discover Local Attractions
Explore Murfreesboro`s vibrant downtown, museums, parks, and cultural attractions.
View Things to Do →Local Events Calendar
Find upcoming events, festivals, concerts, and community activities happening in Murfreesboro.
View Events →Business Directory
Browse Murfreesboro`s business community with our searchable directory of local businesses.
View Businesses →Local News
Stay informed with the latest news and updates about Murfreesboro and Rutherford County.
Read News →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the geographic center of Tennessee?
Murfreesboro is near the geographic center of Tennessee, with a marker on Old Lascassas Pike commemorating this distinction. This central location makes Murfreesboro an important hub for the state.
Is Murfreesboro the center of Tennessee?
Yes, Murfreesboro is recognized as being near the geographic center of the state of Tennessee. The location is marked with a historical marker on Old Lascassas Pike, acknowledging this significant geographic feature of the city.
How far is Murfreesboro from Nashville?
Murfreesboro is approximately 34 miles southeast of Nashville, about a 35-minute drive via Interstate 24 (I-24). This proximity to Tennessee`s capital city makes Murfreesboro an ideal location for business, commuting, and accessing Nashville`s entertainment and cultural attractions.
Why is Murfreesboro growing so fast?
Murfreesboro is one of the fastest-growing cities in Tennessee due to several key factors: its central location in Middle Tennessee, affordable cost of living compared to Nashville, proximity to Nashville for employment and entertainment, the presence of Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), a strong and diverse job market, and excellent infrastructure and schools. The city`s geographic position makes it an attractive hub for residents and businesses.
What county is Murfreesboro in?
Murfreesboro is located in Rutherford County, Tennessee. As the county seat, Murfreesboro serves as the administrative and cultural center of Rutherford County, one of the fastest-growing counties in Tennessee.
What county is Eagleville TN in?
Eagleville is also located in Rutherford County, Tennessee. Many communities in the surrounding Middle Tennessee area, including Eagleville, are part of the broader Rutherford County region centered around Murfreesboro.