Murfreesboro, TN — Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about living in, visiting, or moving to Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
About Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Murfreesboro is a city of approximately 165,000 people located 34 miles southeast of Nashville in Rutherford County, Tennessee. It is the sixth-largest city in the state and one of the fastest-growing cities in the southeastern United States. Murfreesboro is home to Middle Tennessee State University, the Stones River National Battlefield, a historic downtown Public Square, and a diverse dining and entertainment scene. The city offers a lower cost of living than Nashville while providing easy interstate access to the Nashville metropolitan area.
About Murfreesboro
What is Murfreesboro, TN known for?
Murfreesboro, Tennessee is known as the geographic center of the state, home to Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), and the site of the Stones River National Battlefield from the Civil War. The city is also recognized for its historic downtown Public Square, a growing food and craft beer scene, and its position as one of the fastest-growing cities in the southeastern United States. Murfreesboro serves as the county seat of Rutherford County.
What county is Murfreesboro, TN in?
Murfreesboro is the county seat of Rutherford County, Tennessee. Rutherford County is located in the central part of the state and is one of the fastest-growing counties in Tennessee. The county also includes the cities of Smyrna, La Vergne, and Eagleville.
What is the population of Murfreesboro, TN?
Murfreesboro has a population of approximately 165,000 residents, making it the sixth-largest city in Tennessee. The broader Rutherford County area has a population exceeding 340,000. The city has experienced significant growth over the past two decades, with population increasing by over 50% since 2000.
What is the zip code for Murfreesboro, TN?
Murfreesboro, Tennessee uses several zip codes: 37127, 37128, 37129, 37130, and 37131. The 37130 zip code covers the downtown and central Murfreesboro area, while 37128 and 37129 cover the newer suburban areas to the north and west.
Location & Getting Around
How far is Murfreesboro from Nashville?
Murfreesboro is approximately 34 miles southeast of Nashville, Tennessee. The drive takes about 35-45 minutes via Interstate 24, depending on traffic. During rush hour, the commute can take 50-70 minutes. Murfreesboro is one of the closest mid-sized cities to Nashville and is part of the Nashville metropolitan area.
How far is Murfreesboro from the Nashville airport?
Murfreesboro is approximately 28 miles from Nashville International Airport (BNA). The drive typically takes 30-40 minutes via I-24 West. There is no direct public transit connection, so most travelers drive or use rideshare services.
Is there public transportation in Murfreesboro?
Murfreesboro has the Rover bus system operated by the city, which provides fixed-route bus service throughout the city. Routes connect major destinations including MTSU, the downtown square, shopping centers, and medical facilities. The city does not have rail or commuter train service to Nashville.
Living in Murfreesboro
Is Murfreesboro a good place to live?
Murfreesboro is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in Tennessee. The city offers a lower cost of living compared to Nashville, quality schools in the Rutherford County School System, a growing job market, and a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The city has a mix of suburban neighborhoods and urban amenities, with easy access to Nashville for additional cultural and employment opportunities.
What is the cost of living in Murfreesboro, TN?
The cost of living in Murfreesboro is generally lower than the national average, though it has increased with the city's growth. Housing costs are lower than Nashville, with median home prices and rental rates below the Nashville metro average. Tennessee has no state income tax, which is a financial benefit for residents. Groceries, utilities, and transportation costs are close to national averages.
What are the best neighborhoods in Murfreesboro?
Popular neighborhoods in Murfreesboro include the downtown area near the Public Square for walkability and historic charm, Salem area for established suburban homes, Blackman area in the southwest for newer developments and highly-rated schools, and the Northfield area for newer construction. Each area offers different price points and proximity to schools, shopping, and employment centers.
How are the schools in Murfreesboro?
Murfreesboro is served by the Rutherford County School System and Murfreesboro City Schools. The area has several highly rated public schools, including schools in the Blackman cluster and Siegel cluster. Private school options include Providence Christian Academy and The Webb School (in nearby Bell Buckle). Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is the largest undergraduate university in Tennessee.
Things to Do
What are the best things to do in Murfreesboro?
Murfreesboro offers a variety of activities including visiting the Stones River National Battlefield, exploring the downtown Public Square shops and restaurants, attending events at the Murfreesboro Center for the Arts, visiting the Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, walking or biking the Greenway system, attending Friday Night Live concerts downtown in summer, shopping at the Farmers Market, and exploring Barfield Crescent Park. The city also has a growing craft brewery scene and a full events calendar year-round.
What outdoor activities are available in Murfreesboro?
Murfreesboro has an extensive parks system including Barfield Crescent Park (which includes Wilderness Station), Old Fort Park with a golf course and disc golf, the Stones River Greenway trail system for walking and biking, and the Stones River National Battlefield for hiking. Nearby Percy Priest Lake offers boating, fishing, and swimming. The city maintains over 20 parks and recreational facilities.
What events happen in Murfreesboro?
Murfreesboro hosts numerous events throughout the year. Regular events include Friday Night Live concerts on the Public Square (summer), the Saturday Farmers Market, and First Friday art walks. Annual events include Uncle Dave Macon Days, Christmas on the Square, Oaklands Mansion events, and various festivals at Cannonsburgh Village. The Discovery Center, Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation, and local venues host family activities, workshops, and performances year-round.
Food & Dining
What are the best restaurants in Murfreesboro?
Murfreesboro has a diverse restaurant scene with over 100 locally-owned dining options. Popular restaurants include The Alley on Main for upscale American, Puckett's for Southern BBQ, Marinas on the Square for Italian, Simply Pure Sweets for French pastries, and Jack Brown's for craft burgers. The downtown Public Square area has the highest concentration of independent restaurants. The city also has a growing international food scene with Mexican, Thai, Indian, Greek, and Mediterranean options.
Are there good coffee shops in Murfreesboro?
Murfreesboro has a thriving coffee culture with several locally-owned coffee shops. Popular options include Just Love Coffee Cafe, Brass Horn Coffee Roasters, Joanie's on the Public Square, Dapper Owl Coffee Pub & Bakery, and Bean Loft Coffee Company. Many of these shops offer specialty espresso drinks, local roasts, and workspace-friendly environments with Wi-Fi.
Business & Economy
What are the major employers in Murfreesboro?
The largest employers in the Murfreesboro area include Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), Rutherford County Government, Murfreesboro City Schools, Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital, State Farm Insurance, and Nissan (manufacturing plant in nearby Smyrna). The city has a diversified economy spanning education, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and professional services.
How do I start a business in Murfreesboro?
Resources for starting a business in Murfreesboro include the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce, the Tennessee Small Business Development Center at MTSU, SCORE Nashville (free mentoring), and the City of Murfreesboro Economic Development office. The city offers a business-friendly environment with Tennessee's lack of state income tax and a growing consumer base.
Explore Murfreesboro
Things to Do
Attractions, activities, and day trips in Murfreesboro
Restaurant Guide
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Business Directory
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Events Calendar
Upcoming events, concerts, and festivals
Public Square Guide
Explore shops, restaurants, and events downtown
Day Trips
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