Don't expect to be able to walk anywhere in Murfreesboro. Most everything is about a 15 minute drive, and that's if you don't have to go all the way across town.
Crime is not pervasive here. What you should look for would be college students who are under age drinkers or drunk drivers. Although crime is on the rise, the rate increase is eclipsed strongly by population increase.
Much of the area is populated with college-educated people, being home to the largest undergraduate university in the state. Also, much of the population moved here from somewhere else for a job or to raise their kids.
It is politically conservative- Republican state reps, voted Bush 04/00.
Plenty of churches, that's for sure. Ft. God everywhere. Franklin still takes the cake as being the most religious area in Middle TN.
There aren't many shaded sidewalks except in the E. Main St. area, which is also the historic home "district". I scare quote district because it's not that big. You have to keep in mind, ~75% of Murfreesboro is less than 15 years old, meaning most of the trees are either newly planted or recently dozed, but if you look hard enough, you can find it. This area is near the low income district, too, and would be the only place where you could conceivably walk from home to anywhere within reason.
For shady tree region, you should look towards southwest Nashville, like Hilsboro, Bellemeade, or Brentwood. However, these areas are much more expensive to live in. But if you're from SF, it's still cheaper.
Hope this is helpful!