Situated just across the Cumberland River from downtown Nashville, East Nashville is an area celebrated for its unique blend of historic charm, vibrant arts scene, and its progressive, bohemian vibe. As one of the city’s most eclectic and rapidly evolving districts, East Nashville is an amalgamation of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own personality and flair. Here’s an in-depth guide for those considering a move to East Nashville.
Housing: From Historic Bungalows to Modern Condos
Apartments
East Nashville boasts a variety of apartment complexes catering to diverse budgets and preferences. Notable ones include:
- Eastwood Greene: A community-focused complex that offers contemporary amenities amidst green spaces.
- Flats at Taylor Place: Modern apartments near the shopping and dining hub of East Nashville.
The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in East Nashville ranges from $1,200 to $2,200, depending on the location and amenities.
Houses and Condos
East Nashville is known for its historic bungalows and Victorian homes, many of which have been refurbished. In recent years, there’s been a surge in the development of modern condos and townhouses. While prices can vary significantly, a ballpark figure for a renovated bungalow or a new condo starts at $250,000 and can go upwards to $600,000 or more for larger properties in prime locations.
Walkability and Transportation
Many parts of East Nashville are pedestrian-friendly, especially around commercial hubs like Five Points, where residents can access cafes, boutiques, and more. However, given its suburban feel, having a car can be beneficial for certain areas. Public transport options include city buses, which connect East Nashville to other parts of the city.
Entertainment and Culinary Experiences
East Nashville is a hotspot for the city’s artists, musicians, and culinary enthusiasts.
- Five Points: A lively intersection that offers everything from trendy boutiques to live music venues and gourmet eateries.
- The Basement East: Known for its indie music scene, it’s a must-visit for music aficionados.
For foodies, restaurants like Margot Café & Bar, which offers rustic French and Italian cuisines, and The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden are local favorites. Coffee culture thrives here with cafes like Barista Parlor serving artisanal coffee.
Green Spaces: A Touch of Nature in the City
East Nashville offers abundant green spaces:
- Shelby Park: A sprawling 361-acre park alongside the Cumberland River, offering walking trails, golf courses, and scenic lakes.
- Cornelia Fort Airpark: A unique park with walking paths crisscrossing former airstrips.
Education: Diverse Options for the Young Minds
East Nashville is home to a mix of public and private educational institutions.
Public Schools:
- Lockeland Design Center Elementary: An award-winning design center with a strong community involvement.
- Stratford STEM Magnet High School: A school emphasizing science, technology, engineering, and math.
Private Schools:
- Nashville Classical Charter School: Known for its rigorous academic curriculum and emphasis on classical education.
- St. Ann’s Episcopal School: A private Christian school offering a holistic educational experience.
Crime Rates: An Honest Overview
Like many urban areas undergoing rapid development and gentrification, East Nashville has experienced its fair share of crime. However, it’s essential to keep these rates in perspective and to understand the nuanced nature of different neighborhoods within East Nashville.
Recent Trends: Over the past few years, efforts to revitalize and redevelop parts of East Nashville have borne positive results not just in terms of real estate, but also with respect to safety. Many areas that once had reputations for higher crime rates have seen significant improvements thanks to community involvement, improved policing, and the influx of new residents and businesses.
Neighborhood Differences: Crime rates can vary from one part of East Nashville to another. Areas closer to the Five Points hub tend to be safer, owing to their higher foot traffic and active community engagement. More peripheral parts might experience sporadic incidents, primarily property-related crimes like break-ins or car thefts.
Community Vigilance: One of the defining features of East Nashville is its tight-knit community, which plays a crucial role in maintaining security. Residents often band together, forming neighborhood watches or using online platforms and social media to share safety tips, report suspicious activities, and provide updates on local incidents.
Comparison to Other Areas: When compared to other Nashville neighborhoods, East Nashville’s crime rates are somewhat average. It’s always a good idea to check the latest statistics and talk to current residents when considering a move to get the most up-to-date and localized information.
Safety Precautions: As with any urban setting, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and to take basic safety precautions. Investing in home security, being cautious with online sales meetups, and keeping cars locked and valuables out of sight can go a long way in ensuring personal security.
Conclusion:
East Nashville’s narrative is one of change, growth, and community resilience. While safety considerations are undoubtedly important, they are but one facet of this vibrant area’s evolving story. For those considering a move, it’s recommended to visit at different times of the day, chat with locals, and truly get a feel for the community to make an informed decision.