Overall City Sentiment Score
“We moved to Lebanon for the schools, but stayed for the neighbors.” This sentiment captures how many locals feel about living in Lebanon, TN. In 2025, Lebanon’s overall sentiment score falls between 75-85 out of 100, influenced by a strong sense of community pride, affordable housing options, and a safe, family-friendly vibe. While some residents express concerns about managing growth and preserving Lebanon’s small-town charm, the overall emotional tone remains positive.
Social Media Buzz in Lebanon
On local Facebook groups like “What’s Happening in Lebanon, TN,” residents actively share community updates, event announcements, and recommendations. The tone is largely upbeat and helpful, with neighbors quick to offer support or advice. As one member posted, “I love how this group feels like an extended family. Whether you need a plumber or a lost pet sighting, someone always steps up to help.”
Twitter and Instagram showcase Lebanon’s vibrant local culture, from the historic downtown square to popular festivals like the Wilson County Fair. User-generated content often features glowing reviews of local businesses and appreciation for the city’s natural beauty. “Just spent the perfect Saturday exploring the Castle Heights area and grabbing lunch at Town Square Social. Reminded me why I fell in love with Lebanon all over again! 🌿❤️ #LebanonTN #SmallTownCharm”
Local News Tone
Lebanon’s local news outlets, such as The Wilson Post and The Lebanon Democrat, strike a balance between celebrating community successes and addressing challenges. Headlines like “Lebanon High School Robotics Team Wins State Championship” and “City Council Approves Funding for New Community Center” reflect a sense of pride and progress.
However, the news also tackles concerns over managing growth, with articles like “Planning Commission Debates Zoning Changes to Preserve Green Space” and “Residents Voice Traffic Concerns at Town Hall Meeting.” The overall tone suggests a community actively engaged in shaping its future while preserving its small-town roots.
Review-Based Public Perception
On review platforms like Google and Nextdoor, Lebanon earns praise for its friendly neighbors, safe streets, and convenient amenities. One Google reviewer wrote, “Lebanon offers the perfect blend of Southern hospitality and modern convenience. Great schools, beautiful parks, and a historic downtown with locally-owned shops and restaurants. It’s a wonderful place to raise a family.”
Neighborhood-specific reviews on Nextdoor highlight the unique charms of different areas. A resident of the Tuckers Crossroads area shared, “We love the peace and quiet out here. Neighbors look out for each other, and there’s a real sense of community.” Downtown residents rave about the walkability and charm, with one noting, “Living in the historic district means I can stroll to my favorite coffee shop or catch a concert on the square. It’s like something out of a Hallmark movie!”
Comparison to Nearby Cities
| City | Sentiment Score | Key Strengths | Growth Challenges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lebanon | 80/100 | Strong community, safety, affordability | Managing growth, preserving charm |
| Mt. Juliet | 78/100 | Great schools, shopping, family-friendly | Traffic congestion, rapid development |
| Murfreesboro | 75/100 | Job opportunities, dining, recreation | Rising costs, sprawl, identity |
Compared to nearby cities like Mt. Juliet and Murfreesboro, Lebanon stands out for its strong community bonds and affordability. While all three cities boast great schools and family-friendly amenities, Lebanon’s historic charm and slower pace of life appeal to those seeking a tight-knit community feel.
What Locals Are Saying
“As a young professional, I appreciate that Lebanon offers an easy commute to Nashville without the big city price tag. I can afford a house here on a single income, which would be tough in the suburbs closer to the city.” – Jenna, 29, marketing specialist
“Lebanon has been the perfect place to retire. We have a great group of friends in our neighborhood, and there’s always something going on at the senior center. Plus, the low cost of living means we can spoil the grandkids when they visit!” – Bob, 68, retired teacher
“I’ve lived in Lebanon my whole life, and while it’s grown over the years, it still has that small-town feel. People here care about their neighbors and take pride in the community. It’s not perfect, but it’s home.” – Mark, 45, small business owner
“Remote work has allowed our family to prioritize quality of life, and Lebanon delivers. We have space to spread out, great schools for the kids, and a supportive community. We do worry about growth changing the vibe, but for now, we couldn’t be happier.” – Lisa, 36, remote project manager
Conclusion: Is Lebanon a Happy City?
Based on local sentiment, Lebanon emerges as a city where happiness runs deep. Residents consistently praise the strong community bonds, affordable living, and family-friendly atmosphere that make Lebanon a beloved hometown. While locals recognize the challenges that come with growth, they remain optimistic about preserving the small-town charm that defines Lebanon’s character.
For those considering a move to Lebanon, the city’s high sentiment scores and glowing resident reviews paint a picture of a welcoming, tight-knit community that takes pride in its history while embracing progress. As one lifelong resident put it, “Lebanon isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place to put down roots and be part of something special.”
Of course, happiness is subjective, and what matters most is finding a community that aligns with your values and lifestyle. To dive deeper into whether Lebanon could be your happy place, explore our guides on affording the cost of living, salary requirements, and housing options in Lebanon. With its strong sentiment scores and resident satisfaction, Lebanon is well worth considering for your next hometown.