Mount Juliet, Tennessee, is a charming city situated just east of Nashville, making it an attractive option for those who want a suburban lifestyle while still enjoying proximity to a major urban center. With its roots in agriculture and its modern development in commercial and residential areas, Mount Juliet has grown significantly over the past few decades. Once considered a small, quiet town, it has become a desirable destination for families, professionals, and retirees alike, drawn by its strong community atmosphere, access to outdoor recreation, and reputable school system.
As more people relocate to Middle Tennessee, Mount Juliet stands out as a town that offers a blend of rural charm and suburban convenience. Its proximity to Nashville, with its bustling economy and vibrant cultural scene, makes it an appealing option for those who want to live near the big city but prefer a slower pace of life. The city’s growth has led to the development of new shopping centers, residential communities, and recreational facilities, making it a modern, family-friendly place to live.
However, like any city, Mount Juliet has its challenges. With rapid growth comes increased traffic, rising housing prices, and concerns about overdevelopment. While many appreciate the quieter, family-oriented environment, others may find the city lacking in certain cultural and entertainment options typically found in larger urban areas. In this article, we will explore 13 pros and 12 cons of living in Mount Juliet, TN, providing you with a comprehensive look at what life is like in this evolving suburban city.
Pros Of Living In Mount Juliet, TN
1. Proximity To Nashville
One of the key reasons many people are drawn to Mount Juliet is its proximity to Nashville. Located just 20 miles from downtown Nashville, Mount Juliet allows residents to enjoy a suburban lifestyle while being only a short drive away from all that a major city has to offer. This closeness is especially appealing to those who work in Nashville but prefer to live in a quieter, family-friendly area. Residents can easily access Nashville’s renowned music scene, cultural institutions, dining, and entertainment without dealing with the hustle and bustle of city life on a daily basis.
2. Affordable Housing Compared To Nashville
While housing prices have been increasing due to the area’s popularity, Mount Juliet remains more affordable than Nashville. Homebuyers can find a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, at lower prices compared to homes within Nashville’s city limits. For families and first-time buyers, the ability to purchase a home in a safe, growing community without paying the high premiums of city living makes Mount Juliet an attractive option. Additionally, the variety of neighborhoods caters to different lifestyle preferences, whether you’re looking for a quiet, rural setting or a more suburban feel.
3. Low Crime Rates
Mount Juliet is considered a very safe place to live, boasting lower crime rates compared to the national average. The city has worked to maintain its small-town charm even as it has grown, and its safety is a major draw for families and retirees. The low crime rates create a sense of security for residents, allowing them to feel comfortable letting their children play outside or taking a walk around their neighborhood. This safety factor contributes significantly to the quality of life, giving residents peace of mind.
4. Top-Rated Public Schools
For families with children, the quality of the school system is a critical factor in choosing where to live, and Mount Juliet delivers on this front. The city is part of the Wilson County School District, which is known for its high-performing schools. Several schools in Mount Juliet have earned top ratings for academic excellence, extracurricular programs, and sports. Parents can feel confident that their children will receive a solid education in a supportive learning environment, with opportunities for advanced placement classes, athletics, and the arts. The presence of good schools is one of the reasons why Mount Juliet has become so popular with young families.
5. Abundant Outdoor Recreation
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Mount Juliet. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, with close access to Percy Priest Lake and Old Hickory Lake, both of which offer ample opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. There are also numerous parks, trails, and green spaces where residents can hike, bike, picnic, or simply enjoy the fresh air. This abundance of outdoor activities makes Mount Juliet an ideal location for families, retirees, and individuals looking for a healthy, active lifestyle. With such a variety of options, it’s easy to spend time outdoors year-round.
6. Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Mount Juliet is often described as an excellent place to raise a family. Its safe neighborhoods, good schools, and abundance of recreational activities make it a top choice for families with children. The city organizes family-friendly events throughout the year, such as holiday parades, festivals, and outdoor movie nights, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging. Parents can feel confident that they’re raising their children in a supportive, family-oriented environment where neighbors look out for one another and there’s a genuine sense of camaraderie among residents.
7. Strong Community Spirit
Despite its growth, Mount Juliet has retained a strong sense of community. Many residents are involved in local events, volunteer organizations, and neighborhood activities, helping to maintain a welcoming and supportive environment. The city’s community spirit is reflected in its local businesses, schools, and churches, where people come together to celebrate milestones, support local causes, and build lasting relationships. This community-driven atmosphere makes Mount Juliet feel more like a small town, where people know each other by name and are willing to lend a helping hand.
8. Access To Shopping And Dining
Over the past several years, Mount Juliet has experienced a commercial boom, bringing in a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Providence Marketplace, a large retail complex, is one of the city’s most popular destinations, featuring major retailers, boutiques, restaurants, and a movie theater. Residents no longer need to travel to Nashville for their shopping needs, as Mount Juliet offers a good variety of stores and eateries. This convenience is a major perk for residents, as it saves time and provides plenty of local options for weekend outings or quick errands.
9. Lower Property Taxes
Compared to Nashville and other nearby cities, Mount Juliet benefits from lower property taxes, which is a major advantage for homeowners. Lower taxes can make owning a home more affordable in the long run, reducing the financial burden on families and retirees. For those looking to settle down and invest in real estate, Mount Juliet’s lower taxes make it an appealing option, allowing homeowners to enjoy the perks of suburban living without the steep costs associated with larger cities.
10. Mild Climate
Mount Juliet enjoys a mild climate, typical of the southeastern United States. While summers can be warm and humid, the overall weather is generally pleasant throughout the year. Winters are short and mild, with occasional snowfall but nothing extreme. This makes it easy for residents to enjoy outdoor activities year-round without worrying about harsh winters or unbearable summers. The moderate climate also adds to the city’s appeal for those who enjoy gardening, hiking, or simply spending time outside.
11. Growing Local Job Market
While many residents commute to Nashville for work, Mount Juliet’s local economy has been growing steadily. The presence of major employers, such as the Amazon distribution center, has provided job opportunities in industries like retail, logistics, and healthcare. Additionally, the city has seen an increase in small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures, creating more local job opportunities. This growing job market is an appealing aspect for those looking to work close to home without the long commute into Nashville.
12. Proximity To Quality Healthcare
Mount Juliet offers convenient access to quality healthcare facilities. While there are several clinics and urgent care centers within the city, residents are also just a short drive from some of Nashville’s top hospitals, including Vanderbilt University Medical Center. This proximity to world-class healthcare is a significant advantage, particularly for families with young children, seniors, or those with specific medical needs. Having access to specialized medical services close by provides peace of mind for residents.
13. Well-Maintained Infrastructure
As Mount Juliet continues to grow, the city has made considerable investments in its infrastructure. Roads are well-maintained, and the city has expanded its utilities and services to meet the needs of the increasing population. Public services such as trash collection, emergency services, and utilities are reliable and efficient, contributing to the overall quality of life. The city is also working on traffic management and public transportation options to improve accessibility as it grows.
Cons Of Living In Mount Juliet, TN
1. Traffic Congestion
One of the main downsides of living in Mount Juliet is the increasing traffic. As the city grows and more people move to the area, roads have become more congested, particularly during peak commuting hours. Many residents work in Nashville, and the daily commute can be frustrating, especially on highways like I-40. Although the city is working to improve infrastructure and manage traffic flow, the rapid growth has led to challenges in keeping up with the demands of a larger population.
2. Rising Cost Of Living
While Mount Juliet was once considered an affordable alternative to Nashville, the cost of living has been steadily rising as demand for housing increases. Property values have gone up, and the competition for homes has made it harder for some buyers to find affordable options. Additionally, the cost of everyday goods and services has risen in recent years, making it more expensive for families to maintain their standard of living. For those on a tight budget, the rising cost of living could be a concern.
3. Limited Cultural And Entertainment Options
Although Mount Juliet offers a variety of shopping and dining options, it lacks the cultural amenities found in larger cities like Nashville. For residents who enjoy frequenting museums, art galleries, theaters, and live music venues, Mount Juliet may feel somewhat limited. While the city does host community events and festivals, those looking for a more vibrant cultural scene often have to make the drive into Nashville, which can be inconvenient for some.
4. Concerns About Overdevelopment
As Mount Juliet continues to expand, some residents have expressed concerns about overdevelopment. The rapid growth has led to new housing developments, shopping centers, and infrastructure projects, which some feel could erode the small-town charm that initially attracted them to the area. Overdevelopment may also lead to environmental concerns, such as the loss of green spaces and increased pressure on the city’s natural resources.
5. Limited Public Transportation
Mount Juliet has limited public transportation options, which can be a drawback for those who do not own a car or prefer to use public transit. While the Music City Star commuter train provides a convenient way to travel into Nashville, there are few other public transportation services within Mount Juliet itself. Most residents rely on their cars for daily commutes and errands, which contributes to traffic congestion and can be costly for those facing long drives to work.
6. Job Opportunities Primarily In Nashville
While Mount Juliet’s local economy is growing, many residents still commute to Nashville for work. The local job market is improving, but it remains limited compared to the opportunities available in a larger city like Nashville. This can be a disadvantage for those looking to work close to home or those in specialized industries. Commuting to Nashville for employment can add significant time to residents’ daily routines, particularly during rush hour.
7. Hot And Humid Summers
Although Mount Juliet has a mild climate for most of the year, summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the 90s. The humidity can make outdoor activities less enjoyable during the summer months, and those who are not accustomed to the heat may find it uncomfortable. For residents who prefer cooler climates or who are sensitive to heat, Mount Juliet’s summer weather may be a downside.
8. Limited Nightlife
For younger residents or those who enjoy an active nightlife, Mount Juliet may feel a bit quiet. The city has a more laid-back, family-oriented atmosphere, and while there are some local bars and restaurants, the nightlife is much more subdued compared to Nashville. Residents looking for a wider variety of nightlife options, including music venues, clubs, and late-night dining, often head into Nashville to experience the city’s entertainment offerings.
9. Lack Of Diversity
Mount Juliet has a predominantly homogeneous population, which may be a disadvantage for those seeking a more diverse community. The city’s demographic makeup may not reflect the cultural and ethnic diversity that some residents are used to in larger urban areas. While the city is welcoming, its lack of diversity may be a consideration for individuals who value living in a multicultural environment.
10. Distance From Major Airports
For residents who travel frequently, Mount Juliet’s distance from the Nashville International Airport can be inconvenient. While the airport is only about a 30-minute drive away, the traffic on I-40 can make the journey longer during busy times. For those who need to travel regularly for work or leisure, the commute to the airport may be a hassle, particularly during peak traffic hours.
11. Noise From Trains
The Music City Star commuter train runs through parts of Mount Juliet, and while this provides a convenient transportation option for those commuting to Nashville, it can also bring noise. Residents who live near the train tracks may find the noise disruptive, especially early in the morning or late at night when the trains pass through. For some, this noise may be an annoyance, particularly in otherwise quiet neighborhoods.
12. Limited Higher Education Options
Mount Juliet has limited higher education options within the city itself. While there are nearby community colleges and technical schools, residents seeking more extensive higher education opportunities often have to commute to Nashville or other nearby cities. This can be a drawback for students or professionals looking to further their education without a long commute, and it may be less convenient for those seeking advanced degrees or specialized programs.
Conclusion
Mount Juliet, Tennessee, offers a wide range of advantages for those seeking a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the amenities of a larger city. Its strong sense of community, good schools, affordable housing, and abundance of outdoor recreational activities make it an appealing destination for families, retirees, and professionals. The city’s rapid growth has brought new opportunities and conveniences, while still retaining a small-town feel that many residents cherish.
However, like any city, Mount Juliet has its challenges. Traffic congestion, rising housing costs, and concerns about overdevelopment are some of the issues residents face. The limited cultural and entertainment options, along with the lack of public transportation, may be drawbacks for those looking for a more urban lifestyle. Additionally, the hot summers, distance from major airports, and noise from trains are factors to consider when deciding if Mount Juliet is the right place for you.
Ultimately, whether Mount Juliet is the ideal place to live depends on your priorities and lifestyle preferences. For those who value a family-friendly environment, outdoor activities, and proximity to Nashville, Mount Juliet offers a high quality of life. However, those seeking a more fast-paced or diverse urban experience may find that living closer to Nashville or in a different city better suits their needs. By weighing the pros and cons carefully, you can make an informed decision about whether Mount Juliet is the right place to call home.