Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving to Murfreesboro

Moving to Murfreesboro was one of the best decisions my family and I have ever made, but like any major life change, it came with its challenges. Looking back, there are a few things I wish I had known beforehand that would have made the transition smoother. If you’re planning to move to Murfreesboro, here’s some helpful information to get you started on the right foot.

Finding the right neighborhood was one of the first tasks we tackled. Murfreesboro has a diverse range of housing options, from modern apartments to spacious single-family homes. Researching neighborhoods based on our lifestyle and preferences was crucial. For families, the Blackman area on the west side of Murfreesboro is popular due to its excellent schools and proximity to shopping and dining. We found it to be a family-friendly area with newer homes and plenty of amenities.

If you prefer a more rural feel while still being close to city amenities, Walter Hill to the north might be a good fit. Siegel, located on the northeast side, also offers great schools and community amenities, making it another popular choice for families. On the southwest side, Salem is an area experiencing a lot of growth, with a mix of established neighborhoods and new construction.

Rockvale, situated further southwest, provides a quieter, country setting. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a more rural atmosphere but still want to be close to Murfreesboro.

For those who prefer a more urban lifestyle, The Avenue area offers modern apartments and condos with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. If you love character homes and being close to the action, the historic downtown area might be for you, with its charming older homes and vibrant community atmosphere. There are a ton more areas around Murfreesboro to explore, such as Christiana and Bradyville, to name a few. Hopefully that will get you started!

As a parent, finding the right schools for my kids was a top priority. The public school system in Rutherford County is very strong and well-respected, with schools receiving several accolades for academic excellence and community involvement. This gave us confidence that our children would receive a quality education.

For higher education, Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is located right in Murfreesboro, offering a wide range of programs and resources. Motlow State Community College also has a campus here, providing additional options for college-bound students.

Homeschool families will find Murfreesboro offers a supportive environment with several tutorials and community groups to help them get adjusted. These resources provide a network for parents and students to share experiences, curriculum ideas, and social activities. For private education, there are excellent options like Middle Tennessee Christian School and Providence Christian Academy, which offer strong academic programs within a faith-based framework.

Getting familiar with Murfreesboro’s main roads and layout was essential for us. The city is continually growing, and learning the key routes made navigating much easier. Old Fort Parkway, a major east-west corridor, connects to I-24 and runs through many commercial areas, making it vital for shopping and dining. Medical Center Parkway, running parallel to Old Fort Parkway, also connects to I-24 and offers access to The Avenue Murfreesboro, a large shopping center, as well as several medical facilities.

Veterans Parkway runs from the southwestern part of the city, providing access to residential neighborhoods and commercial areas. I-840, a bypass route, helps avoid inner-city traffic and connects to several main highways, making it useful for reaching the outskirts of Murfreesboro or neighboring cities. I-24, the main interstate, connects Murfreesboro to Nashville and Chattanooga, making it crucial for long-distance travel and daily commutes. Fortress Boulevard, a growing area with new developments, connects with Veterans Parkway and provides access to several new neighborhoods. Memorial Boulevard, running north-south, is lined with businesses and provides a direct route to the downtown area, while Broad Street cuts through the heart of Murfreesboro, serving as a key route for accessing various parts of the city.

The longer we lived here, the more we discovered pockets of community spread throughout Murfreesboro. Each area offers something unique, from local shops and restaurants to parks and schools. Murfreesboro is huge. Just remember Old Fort, I24, and Medical Center to start.

One of the things we love most about Murfreesboro is the variety of recreational options. Barfield Crescent Park and Old Fort Park quickly became family favorites, offering everything from hiking trails to playgrounds. The Murfreesboro Greenway System is fantastic for biking and walking, providing scenic routes that connect several parks throughout the city.

History buffs will appreciate the Stones River National Battlefield, a must-visit that is both educational and a beautiful place to explore. For indoor activities, the Discovery Center at Murfree Spring is great for kids, with interactive exhibits that can keep them entertained for hours.

We also enjoy catching concerts at Hop Springs, which offers a great outdoor venue with a lively atmosphere. For a sweet treat, Nash Creamery is our go-to spot for delicious ice cream. When we’re in the mood for a change of pace, driving into Nashville or Franklin provides diverse dining options and cultural experiences that are just a short trip away.

Building a sense of community was crucial for us, especially after moving away from friends and family. We found that getting involved in local events and activities was a great way to meet people. Murfreesboro has a lively community calendar, with events like the Main Street JazzFest and the annual Christmas Parade.

One of the most impactful ways we built our community was through our church. Alinea Church, in particular, provided us with a welcoming environment and numerous opportunities to connect with others. They offer various programs for all ages and interests, making it easier to find your niche and feel at home.

Moving to Murfreesboro has been a rewarding experience for my family and me. From exploring the housing market and finding the right schools to enjoying recreational options and building a community, every step brought us closer to making this city our home. If there’s one piece of advice I can offer, it’s to actively seek out and embrace your new community. Joining a local church, like Alinea Church, can be a wonderful way to establish connections and find support.

Remember, the journey of moving and settling in a new place is filled with opportunities. Embrace them, and you’ll find that Murfreesboro has much to offer.