Widowed gal 50 looking for a change (Murfreesboro, Franklin: areas, small town, growing)

[creeksitter]

Nashville is really the only major city that is going to check off all your boxes.

Why do you say this?

I am not politically conservative nor religious so a mixed community would be nice

All of the "major" cities have a mix of politics and religion. Even some of the smaller places like Cookeville and Johnson city could work. The key to walkability is to choose a home that is close to commercial amenities. Just because you can't throw a dart and find every house in town to be suitable doesn't mean the OP can't find one.

[JOinGA]

Originally Posted by swissmiss05

Hi,
I was thinking of making a move to Tennessee. I have lived in Florida for ten years now and it’s getting too congested and impolite for me.

I would love a smaller home or condo near restaurants etc. I have a small dog so dog park close would be nice. I am not politically conservative nor religious so a mixed community would be nice.

A bit of property would be good too. Not huge just enough to barbecue and have space for my dog. I am widowed now so an area with other singles people would be good also.

I have a budget that is flexible.

Thank you in advance for your advice.
Swissmiss

I moved to Knoxville as a single, retired woman. I have found it very easy to meet people here through the Y, political activity (not conservative) and Meetup groups (hiking and dining). I am not personally in a walkable area, but that option does exist. After living in Atlanta, I really enjoy how accessible things are in a smaller city. Definitely consider Knoxville!

[mattec]

The historic Cooper-Young area of Memphis would check all of your boxes. There are a lot of cute renovated shotgun houses within walking distance to the shops and restaurants of C-Y. Its also a short drive or bike ride to the Midtown Kroger and Fresh Market. Memphis is also the most progressive and diverse city in the state.

[swissmiss05]

Thank you to all that responded. Greatly appreciated. Particularly to Knoxville lady and Memphis person. I was thinking also about Memphis but some people told me it’s not safe etc. I like a mix of nationalities makes life much more interesting.

To Creeksitter above answer I did not understand. Seemed angry that I wanted a less conservative area. Please explain.

[creeksitter]

To Creeksitter above answer I did not understand. Seemed angry that I wanted a less conservative area. Please explain.To Creeksitter above answer I did not understand. Seemed angry that I wanted a less conservative area. Please explain

.

No, I wasn't angry at you. I was a little peeved at whoever said only Nashville checked your boxes. That felt like uninformed or narrow minded thinking.

[AppalachianAngler]

Originally Posted by creeksitter

.

No, I wasn't angry at you. I was a little peeved at whoever said only Nashville checked your boxes. That felt like uninformed or narrow minded thinking.

That was me. I have lived in all 3 Grand Divisions, including Memphis, Nashville and multiple small towns in East TN, so I think I have a pretty good perspective that is not uninformed whatsoever. It is just my opinion. You are welcome to yours. I'm not peeved at anyone like you appear to be.

Yes, of course you can find exceptions in almost every place. Probably every town in the State. I love Johnson City (I lived in Jonesborough) and would myself move there in a heartbeat. It has a small population of progressive folks. But is is, by far, overwhelming conservative and religious. The latter in addition to being a very small city also lends itself to not having as many single people either.

[swissmiss05]

Hey guys,
Thanks for clearing all the up. I think Appalachiananger? Understands my concerns.
I think Nashville proper might be good fit for me East Nashville areas that are racially and politically mixed. I like being around all types of people .

One woman mentioned Knoxville to me? Would that be a consideration? Please let me know.

[durangokid_colorado]

I'm a 63 year old male, retired and just bought a new built home near Austin Tx. I love the area and people here but the property taxes are rediculous. I may revert back to my original plan which is to settle in around Cookeville-Crossville Tn. I know, I have a new home and how do I recoup my investment. The market around Austin is insanity I figure I will be able to sell within one year and recoup entire cost plus closing fees and hopefully moving cost. I love eastern Tn its a really beautiful area and the cost of living is really nice

[WakeMed]

Nolensville TN has at least one dog park and seems to have really nice people.

[JOinGA]

Originally Posted by swissmiss05

Hey guys,
Thanks for clearing all the up. I think Appalachiananger? Understands my concerns.
I think Nashville proper might be good fit for me East Nashville areas that are racially and politically mixed. I like being around all types of people .

One woman mentioned Knoxville to me? Would that be a consideration? Please let me know.

Cost of living is going to be lower in Knoxville than it is in Nashville. Having relocated here from Atlanta metro, I appreciate the smaller city vibe with less traffic than you will find in Nashville. Knoxville just elected a new mayor. Although the race is non-partisan, the left-leaning candidate won.