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Middle Tennessee’s Franklin and Clarksville were named two of the South United States’ best cities ‘on the rise’ in 2024, by Southern Magazine

Southern Living magazine highlighted Franklin and Clarksville, two cities in Middle Tennessee, as 2024 rising stars among Southern cities. This recognition comes amid significant growth in the Southern region, where 87% of the United States' growth was recorded in 2023, with the South being heralded as a prime location for living. The selection of these cities was based on extensive research, reporting, and a survey conducted by Southern Living, which attracted over 20,000 participants.


Franklin, renowned for its vibrant downtown that boasts 16 blocks of well-preserved and restored buildings, including The Franklin Theatre and a variety of local shops and restaurants, secured the second spot on the list. Franklin's charm has also earned it a place as one of America's best small towns. Clarksville, recognized for its significant population growth and development, including attractions like the F&M Banks Arena and The Emerald, ranked 18th. These developments contribute to Clarksville's appeal to tourists and residents alike, making it a top city for younger adults looking to buy a home.


Southern Living's 'The South’s Best Cities On The Rise' list

  1. Wilmington, N.C.

  2. Franklin, Tenn.

  3. Spartanburg, S.C.

  4. Huntsville, Ala.

  5. Columbia, S.C

  6. New Braunfels, Texas

  7. Bowling Green, Ky.

  8. Cary, N.C.

  9. Alpharetta, Ga.

  10. Bentonville, Ark.

  11. Covington, La.

  12. Gulfport, Miss.

  13. Palm Bay, Fla.

  14. Oklahoma City, Okla.

  15. Georgetown, Texas

  16. Frederick, Md.

  17. Gainesville, Ga.

  18. Clarksville, Tenn.

  19. Hattiesburg, Miss.

  20. Morgantown, W. Va.

  21. North Port, Fla.

  22. Lake Charles, La.

  23. Reston, Va.

  24. Edmond, Okla.

  25. Dover, Del.


Southern cities, particularly those in Tennessee, are increasingly being acknowledged for their growth and appeal. The Nashville Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes Franklin, experienced a notable population increase in 2023. Nashville itself has been spotlighted for its transformation into a business hub, further emphasizing the region's attractiveness. Southern Living's accolades for Nashville and its surrounding cities, including Franklin's vibrant downtown and Clarksville's expanding amenities, underscore the dynamic growth and appeal of Middle Tennessee's cities as leading destinations in the South.


 

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