Murfreesboro, TN vs. Nashville, TN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Deciding between Murfreesboro and Nashville, Tennessee in 2025? Let’s break down the key cost of living differences:
- 🏠 Housing costs 18% less in Murfreesboro
- 🍎 Groceries run 9% cheaper in Murfreesboro
- 🚰 Utility bills average 14% lower in Murfreesboro
- 🚗 Transportation expenses favor Murfreesboro by 11%
This cost of living comparison is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Murfreesboro vs Nashville. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Murfreesboro and Nashville. Here’s how typical rental and purchase prices compare:
| Housing | Murfreesboro | Nashville |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,280 | $1,590 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $379,000 | $452,000 |
🏆 Winner: Murfreesboro. Expect to pay around 18% less for housing in Murfreesboro compared to Nashville proper.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs also trend lower in Murfreesboro. Typical monthly utility bills:
- Murfreesboro: $128 – $165
- Nashville: $148 – $192
Both cities experience hot summers and mild winters. Murfreesboro residents save on average due to lower density and newer construction. Some neighborhoods offer off-peak utility plans.
🏆 Winner: Murfreesboro. Utility costs average 14% less in Murfreesboro.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries and everyday items cost about 9% less in Murfreesboro. Expect to pay around $3.89 for a gallon of milk in Murfreesboro compared to $4.25 in Nashville. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant averages $2-$3 cheaper in Murfreesboro as well.
🏆 Winner: Murfreesboro, but savings are less dramatic than housing and utilities.
Taxes and Fees
Both cities have the same sales tax rate of 9.25%. However, Murfreesboro’s property tax rate is notably lower at 1.2% compared to Nashville at 2.1%. For a $400,000 home, that’s a difference of $3,600 per year.
In Murfreesboro, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, while Nashville fees may be higher or à la carte. Vehicles also cost $50-$100 less to register each year in Murfreesboro.
🏆 Winner: Murfreesboro. Lower property taxes can add up to big savings for homeowners.
Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Murfreesboro | Nashville |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠 Housing | $1,280 | $1,590 |
| 🚰 Utilities | $147 | $170 |
| 🍎 Groceries | $337 | $370 |
| 🚗 Transportation | $478 | $535 |
| 💸 Misc/Taxes | $475 | $550 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,717 | $3,215 |
Lifestyle Fit
Murfreesboro offers more space for the money, with larger apartments and homes common. Traffic and commute times are also lighter. However, Nashville boasts more walkable neighborhoods and public transit.
Nashville averages 2°F warmer than Murfreesboro year-round. Summers are hot and humid in both cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Murfreesboro more affordable than Nashville?
Yes, Murfreesboro’s cost of living is around 15% cheaper overall compared to Nashville. Housing is the biggest difference, costing 18% less in Murfreesboro.
Which city has lower rent?
Murfreesboro rents average $310 less per month than Nashville for a comparable 2-bedroom apartment. Explore our guide to average monthly expenses in Murfreesboro for more details.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Murfreesboro home prices are around $73,000 lower than Nashville on average. Factor in Murfreesboro’s lower property tax rate of 1.2% vs Nashville’s 2.1% for added savings.
The Bottom Line
Murfreesboro offers a lower cost of living across the board compared to Nashville. It’s ideal for families who prefer more space over density. However, Nashville’s urban amenities, walkability, and charm make it worth the premium for many.
Budgeting a move to Murfreesboro? Drill into average expenses with our Murfreesboro cost of living guide covering housing, food, transportation, and more.