Exploring the eclectic and vibrant charm of East Nashville and the sophisticated allure of West End presents a fascinating tale of two distinct neighborhoods in the city of Nashville. Both areas, bold in their character and unique offerings, carry a unique appeal to those moving to Nashville and seeking varied lifestyles. The soulful, artsy vibe of East Nashville contrasts vividly with the West End's upscale, urbane elegance, providing an intriguing example of two sides of the same coin that reflect Nashville's heart and soul.
East Nashville
East Nashville is a vibrant, eclectic, and highly walkable neighborhood bordered by the Cumberland River to the south and east and I-65 and I-24 to the north and west. Across the river from Downtown Nashville, the neighborhood with tree-lined streets is renowned for its thriving art and indie music scenes. Several smaller neighborhoods comprise East Nashville, includingInglewood, Five Points, Lockeland Springs, and McFerrin Park.
With ample green spaces, some of the city's hottest restaurants, beloved dive bars, and outdoor recreation all within walking distance, East Nashville offers residents an exciting, fulfilling daily life.
The East Nashville Lifestyle
While West Nashville is more of a residential area, East Nashville has a distinct vibe, with a much stronger emphasis on music and the arts and a more free-spirited atmosphere. Keeping with that theme, West Nashville has larger and more established employers, while East Nashville is known for its entrepreneurial spirit. There's a heavy focus on the local businesses that are so integral to the economy in Nashville, with a growing number of startups and creative ventures.
Small music venues, buzzy cafes, and hot restaurants are sprinkled throughout East Nashville. Thankfully, the neighborhood's layout allows you to walk around, hopping from one to another easily—East Nashville is, in fact, one of Nashville’s most walkable neighborhoods.
Things to Do in East Nashville
There’s never a shortage of things to do in Nashville, and the east side of town is home to plenty of those things. East Nashville offers an abundance of fun activities, from simply strolling around town to sampling all the fantastic local food and catching shows at unique tucked-away music venues.
Food
Foodies will be right at home in East Nashville. The neighborhood is brimming with some of the city's most acclaimed eateries, offering a wide range of cuisines such as
- The Lockeland Table: Delicious farm-to-table menu
- The Fox Bar and co*cktail Club: Small plates and unique co*cktails
- East Side Banh Mi: Casual Vietnamese sandwiches
Retail
East Nash has plenty of options for those times when you need retail therapy. From trendy clothing boutiques and thrift shops to antique treasures and handmade crafts, it's a haven for shoppers looking for one-of-a-kind finds. Fanny’s House of Music is a fun, approachable shop geared toward female musicians, while Old Made Good is the best spot for great vintage and handmade goodies.
Outdoors
Nature lovers can explore East Nashville's beautiful parks and green spaces. Shelby Park is a tranquil spot within the busy atmosphere of East Nash, with its expansive grassy fields and beautiful lake. You’ll also find several scenic walking and biking trails throughout the neighborhood, providing a respite from the urban hustle and bustle just across the river.
Music Venues
You won't find any honky tonks in East Nashville, but the neighborhood is renowned for its smaller music venues. Whether catching an intimate performance at The Basem*nt East or enjoying a lively show at The Five Spot, you're guaranteed a memorable, soul-stirring music experience.
The best honky tonks in Downtown Nashville are just a short distance from East Nashville, too!
Best Neighborhoods in East Nashville
Another great thing about East Nashville is that each of its smaller neighborhoods has its own distinct character and quirks. From Five Points' artistic energy to the relaxed charm of Lockeland Springs, you’ll find a favorite slice of the community.
Five Points
Located in the heart of East Nashville real estate, Five Points is a vibrant, eclectic commercial epicenter known for its eclectic mix of local businesses. You'll find unique shops, art galleries, music venues, and delicious dining options, ranging from street tacos to upscale contemporary joints. Spend your days immersed in the thriving arts scene, enjoying live music at hole-in-the-wall venues and exploring the neighborhood's colorful street art.
Homes in Five Points run the gamut of styles, with a mix of older brick bungalows, stately homes converted to multi-unit condos, and condos. Prices are similarly varied, with the neighborhood’s share of Nashville condos starting in the mid-$200s, detached homes averaging $425,000, and new-construction houses listed for over $1.1 million.
Lockeland Springs
Adjacent to popular Shelby Park, charming Lockeland Springs is known for its tree-lined streets and well-preserved historic homes. Many people choose this neighborhood for the peaceful, picturesque setting that's also ultra-convenient to everything you want in the city.
Living in Lockeland Springs does come with a higher price tag than other neighborhoods, and properties also tend to be significantly larger. Homes for sale in Lockeland Springs list for a median price in the low $700s, and houses typically have three to five bedrooms and at least two bathrooms.
Eastwood
Just north of Lockeland Springs and Five Points, Eastwood is a friendly neighborhood with a mix of historic homes and modern developments. The area offers residents many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, with wide sidewalks and several neighborhood parks. It's also known for hosting several community events throughout the year, including street festivals and farmers' markets. Eastwood has been such a popular community that it was named the second-hottest neighborhood in the country in Redfin’s 2016 rankings.
Homes in Eastwood are similar to Lockeland Springs in both price and style, with a combination of stately older homes and fully renovated houses. The median sale price in this neighborhood is over $600,000, and you may even find a bungalow in the $400,000 range.
West End
On the opposite side of the Cumberland River and west of Downtown Nashville, you'll find West End. The highly desirable neighborhood combines convenience, an abundance of parks and other outdoor spaces, and a vibrant atmosphere with a touch of hip industrial grit.
Bordered by Vanderbilt University, Centennial Park (one of Nashville’s best parks), and I-440, West End offers residents easy access to just about everything. Renowned educational institutions and medical facilities, plus a wide range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options are all available in all areas of West End, all just a short drive away.
West End provides a dynamic, desirable place to live, with a variety of amenities. With its prime location, bustling urban setting, and mixture of historic and modern homes, this area makes it easy for residents to pursue a well-rounded and well-connected lifestyle.
West End Lifestyle
Day-to-day life in West End can be characterized by a blend of sophistication, convenience, and a chic industrial-urban atmosphere.
Compared to East Nashville's eclectic, laid-back charm, West End exudes a distinct vibe. It's more upscale and polished, but also a little gritty and very spirited, with plenty to see, do, and experience.
West End features plenty of open space, and the streets are extremely pedestrian-friendly. Adjacent to Vanderbilt, you'll find a palpable energy and an abundance of bars, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment options.
West End also benefits from more convenient access to Nashville’s public transportation options, largely thanks to its proximity to the university. Vanderbilt, along with a few renowned medical centers and significant employers, including Nissan and Asurion, provides employment opportunities, contributing to West End's desirability.
Things to Do in West End
There's always something to do in Nashville's West End, from getting out in parks or on trails to finding a hot new happy hour.
Food
Like East Nashville, West End offers culinary experiences from all over the world. Everything from food trucks to reservation-only, high-end restaurants dot the neighborhood.
- Central Bar and Kitchen: Lively outdoor patio close to Vandy
- The Cafe at Thistle Farms: Comfort food, handmade gifts, and tea parties
- VN Pho & Deli: Popular spot for pho and banh mi at extremely low prices
Retail
In addition to more than 20 stores inside the Nashville West mall, you’ll find several smaller shopping centers and, of course, locally-owned boutiques and specialty stores. The Sylvan Park neighborhood, in particular, is known for dozens of local businesses that line the streets.
Outdoors
One of the biggest highlights of West End living is access to tons of outdoor spaces. Picturesque Centennial Park is a favorite, with walking paths, gardens, and the crown jewel, the replica of the Parthenon.
Nightlife
While East Nashville is better known for its live music scene, the West End has its own thriving nightlife scene. The Play Dance Bar is considered one of the very best places to dance in all of Tennessee, and if dancing isn’t your thing, head to The Row to listen to aspiring singers and songwriters.
Real Estate in West End Nashville
West End comprises several individual neighborhoods, and they’re similar from a real estate standpoint. The neighborhood's history as an industrial hub and subsequent renaissance means there's a varied mix of housing options. Prospective buyers can find everything from charming historic detached homes to stylish lofts and upscale condos.
Median prices overall are similar to East Nashville, with homes for sale in the West End listing for a median value of around $700,000. Closer to the neighborhood's outer edges, you can find prices in the $200s and even upper $100s, while in hotter areas, listings range from around $600,000 to nearly $2 million.
Distinct & Complementary Nashville Neighborhoods
Picturing the architectural aesthetics, cultural richness, dining and entertainment scenes, and the overall lifestyle within East Nashville and the West End, it's clear why their distinct offerings have them regularly listed among the best neighborhoods in Nashville. Whether drawn to the artistic, bohemian spirit of East Nashville or the polished sophistication of the West End, both neighborhoods reflect the city's capacity for vibrant character and bold lifestyles. Regardless of where one's preferences lie, East Nashville and the West End are shining examples of Nashville's multifaceted charm and distinctive living.
If the opportunities of Nashville excite you, contact The Ashton Real Estate Group of RE/MAX Advantage with Nashville's MLS at (615) 603-3602 to get in touch with local real estate agents who can help find the perfect Nashville home for you today.
