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Tennessee is a state in the southeastern United States, ranking as the 16th most populous and 36th largest by area, covering approximately 109,153 km². As of 2025, it has a population of around 7 million, resulting in a population density of about 64 inhabitants per km².
Nashville, located in Davidson County, serves as the state capital and is the most populous city, with an estimated 729,505 residents in 2025. The broader Nashville metropolitan area has grown significantly, reaching over 1.35 million people.
Memphis, situated in Shelby County, is the second-largest city with a 2025 population of approximately 610,919. It spans an area of 815 km², yielding a population density of roughly 750 inhabitants per km².
largest cities of Tennessee listed by population and also find area, density, county:
| Rank | City Name | Population | Area (km²) | Density (per km²) | County (Primary) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Memphis | 729,505 | 839.15 | 740 | Shelby |
| 2 | Nashville | 660,388 | 1,367.25 | 483 | Davidson |
| 3 | Knoxville | 190,740 | 269.79 | 707 | Knox |
| 4 | Chattanooga | 184,086 | 374.43 | 492 | Hamilton |
| 5 | Clarksville | 166,722 | 256.27 | 651 | Montgomery |
| 6 | Murfreesboro | 152,769 | 145.11 | 1,053 | Rutherford |
| 7 | Franklin | 83,454 | 108.15 | 772 | Williamson |
| 8 | Jackson | 68,205 | 140.25 | 486 | Madison |
| 9 | Johnson City | 66,391 | 112.18 | 592 | Washington |
| 10 | Hendersonville | 61,753 | 95.33 | 648 | Sumner |
| 11 | Bartlett | 57,854 | 83.41 | 694 | Shelby |
| 12 | Kingsport | 55,442 | 136.64 | 406 | Sullivan |
| 13 | Smyrna | 54,070 | 59.70 | 906 | Rutherford |
| 14 | Cleveland | 47,356 | 69.70 | 679 | Bradley |
| 15 | Brentwood | 45,373 | 106.68 | 425 | Williamson |
| 16 | Collierville | 45,302 | 103.60 | 437 | Shelby |
| 17 | Spring Hill | 44,963 | 70.52 | 638 | Maury / Williamson |
| 18 | Gallatin | 44,431 | 83.03 | 535 | Sumner |
| 19 | La Vergne | 38,126 | 64.97 | 587 | Rutherford |
| 20 | Cookeville | 34,842 | 91.84 | 379 | Putnam |
| 21 | Mt. Juliet | 34,991 | 63.86 | 548 | Wilson |
| 22 | Lebanon | 33,900 | 99.62 | 340 | Wilson |
| 23 | Morristown | 30,431 | 71.28 | 427 | Hamblen |
| 24 | Oak Ridge | 31,402 | 232.41 | 135 | Anderson / Roane |
| 25 | Bristol | 27,147 | 84.31 | 322 | Sullivan |
10 Tennessee Cities by Educational Attainment & Tourist Attractions
Here is a combined table for the top 10 cities in Tennessee, ranking them by educational attainment and listing a major tourist attraction for each.
| Rank | City Name | % with Bachelor’s Degree+ | Major Tourist Attraction(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brentwood | 72.5% | The Factory at Franklin (proximity), historic homes, parks |
| 2 | Franklin | 66.8% | Historic Downtown, Carnton Plantation, Main Street Festival |
| 3 | Collierville | 63.1% | Historic Town Square, Morton Museum of Collierville History |
| 4 | Nashville | 46.6% | Country Music Hall of Fame, Broadway Honky Tonks, Parthenon |
| 5 | Oak Ridge | 45.9% | American Museum of Science and Energy, Manhattan Project Park |
| 6 | Knoxville | 43.9% | World’s Fair Park, Sunsphere, Market Square, UTK |
| 7 | Johnson City | 39.3% | Blue Plum Festival, Tipton-Haynes Historic Site, proximity to hiking |
| 8 | Chattanooga | 38.2% | Tennessee Aquarium, Rock City, Ruby Falls, Lookout Mountain |
| 9 | Memphis | 34.5% | Graceland, National Civil Rights Museum, Beale Street |
| 10 | Jackson | 29.8% | Rusty’s TV and Movie Car Museum, Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum |
FAQs
It’s a hub for the healthcare industry and home to the headquarters of many major companies, notably LifePoint Health and Tractor Supply Company. It’s also known for its pristine parks, extensive trail system, and luxurious estates.
Absolutely. Franklin was the site of one of the Civil War’s bloodiest battles. The Carnton plantation house was used as a field hospital, and its floors are still stained with the blood of wounded soldiers. The city is often cited as a hotspot for paranormal activity due to this tragic history.
Yes, fiercely so. Collierville has meticulously preserved its historic town square, which feels a world away from the hustle of Memphis. It’s a center for community events, boutique shopping, and fine dining, proudly maintaining its small-town charm despite rapid growth.
Beyond Broadway, the Parthenon in Centennial Park is a full-scale replica of the original in Athens and houses a 42-foot statue of Athena. It’s the city’s most unexpected and awe-inspiring landmark.
Its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains. It’s a prime gateway for hiking the Appalachian Trail, exploring the Cherokee National Forest, and visiting Roan Mountain, famous for its breathtaking rhododendron gardens.
In 1954, a young truck driver named Elvis Presley paid $4 to record a two-sided acetate (“My Happiness” / “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin”) at the Sun Studio store on 186 East Lafayette Street. This is considered his very first commercial recording, made as a gift for his mother. A historical marker now stands on the spot.
It was one of the first cities in the Western Hemisphere to offer gigabit internet speed to every home and business through its city-owned fiber optic network, earning it the nickname “Gig City.” It’s a major draw for tech startups and remote workers.
A little bit about 10 cities of Tennessee
1. Nashville
As Tennessee’s vibrant capital and largest city (population: 729,505), Nashville is globally revered as “Music City.” It’s the beating heart of the country music industry, home to the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and a constellation of honky-tonks along Broadway. Beyond its musical fame, Nashville is a powerhouse in healthcare, higher education, and tech innovation. The city also boasts a full-scale Parthenon replica in Centennial Park and a booming culinary scene that draws millions of visitors annually.
2. Memphis
Set along the mighty Mississippi River, Memphis (population: 610,919) is a cultural cornerstone of the American South. It’s the birthplace of blues and rock ’n’ roll, with iconic landmarks like Sun Studio and Elvis Presley’s Graceland. Memphis also played a pivotal role in civil rights history, anchored by the powerful National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel. Today, it’s a hub for logistics, education, and world-famous barbecue.
3. Knoxville
Home to the flagship University of Tennessee, Knoxville (population: 198,722) pulses with collegiate energy and Appalachian charm. As the urban gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it blends outdoor adventure with urban revitalization. Market Square and World’s Fair Park offer a dynamic mix of history, innovation, and community spirit.
4. Chattanooga
Nestled in the Tennessee River Gorge, Chattanooga (population: 191,496) has transformed from an industrial town into an outdoor and tech haven. Known as “Gig City” for its lightning-fast internet, it attracts startups and creatives alike. With the Tennessee Aquarium, Lookout Mountain, and access to rock climbing and hang gliding, it’s a magnet for nature lovers and urban explorers.
5. Clarksville
With a population of 185,690, Clarksville is deeply influenced by nearby Fort Campbell, one of the largest military bases in the U.S. This gives the city a proud, patriotic identity. As one of Tennessee’s oldest cities and home to Austin Peay State University, Clarksville blends rich history with youthful academic energy.
6. Murfreesboro
One of the fastest-growing cities in the state, Murfreesboro (population: 168,387) is a dynamic mix of heritage and progress. It hosts Middle Tennessee State University, the largest undergraduate institution in Tennessee. Once a state capital and a key Civil War site, Murfreesboro now thrives as a center of education, commerce, and suburban growth.
7. Franklin
Just south of Nashville, Franklin (population: 89,142) is a masterclass in historic preservation and modern affluence. Its beautifully restored downtown showcases Civil War landmarks alongside boutique shops and gourmet restaurants. Franklin also serves as a corporate hub, housing headquarters for major companies and a thriving, upscale community.
8. Jackson
Located in West Tennessee, Jackson (population: 69,303) is a vital logistics and manufacturing center at the crossroads of major highways. Known as the “Birthplace of Rockabilly,” it celebrates its musical legacy with pride. Jackson is also a regional leader in healthcare and education, offering a balanced mix of heritage and industry.
9. Johnson City
Anchoring the Tri-Cities region, Johnson City (population: 73,635) is a major medical and academic hub, home to East Tennessee State University and a prominent medical school. It’s a gateway to the Appalachian Mountains, offering direct access to hiking, biking, and the scenic Appalachian Trail.
10. Hendersonville
Nicknamed “The City by the Lake,” Hendersonville (population: 63,947) hugs the shores of Old Hickory Lake and was once home to country legends like Johnny Cash and June Carter. Today, it’s a thriving Nashville suburb known for its parks, family-friendly vibe, and strong community spirit.
