Top 10 Safest Cities in Tennessee

Tennessee offers plenty for residents in the way of natural beauty, culture and history. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited park in the United States, slices through the eastern part of the state. Between the blues legacy of Memphis and country music capital of the nation, Nashville, music legends’ songs are kept alive day and night. And the state’s Civil War and Reconstruction Era history can be studied at numerous museums. Let’s see why 6.8 million residents, including many retirees choose to call Tennessee home and which cities have earned a spot among the state’s top 10 safest cities.   

The Top 10 Safest Cities in Tennessee

1. Signal Mountain

• Population: 8,720
• Violent Crimes Per Capita: 2
• Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 31
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft 

95% Below National Crime Rate

Signal Mountain, Tennessee, sits high atop the Cumberland Plateau, overlooking the Tennessee River Valley and just 20 minutes from the bustling heart of Chattanooga. Perched about 1,800 feet above sea level, this town gives you a sense of seclusion while still being close enough to city life when you need it.

Signal Mountain is known as a great place to raise a family, with a strong school system contributing to that reputation. The proximity to Chattanooga, a growing hub for tech and innovation, makes Signal Mountain a prime spot for families, professionals, and retirees looking for a quiet, scenic home base with access to the conveniences of a larger city.

The name “Signal Mountain” traces back to the Civil War, when soldiers used the peak for communications and, yes, signals. Today, the town is known for its natural beauty. It’s a place where hiking trails seem to appear at every turn, leading you through dense forests, over rocky terrain, and rewarding you with stunning views at places like Edwards Point or Signal Point. These vistas make it a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, while also offering a backdrop of tranquility that retirees and families find appealing.

Safety is one of the town’s calling cards. Signal Mountain consistently boasts a low crime rate, and it’s a place where people still leave their doors unlocked and kids ride bikes without much worry. It’s a tight-knit community, with a population hovering close to 9,000, where small-town values prevail.

For families, the local schools are part of the draw. Signal Mountain Middle/High School ranks among the top in the state, providing a strong public education option. There’s also a range of parks, including Rainbow Lake and Shackleford Ridge Park, where kids can run free, play sports, or go exploring. Retirees will appreciate the peace and quiet but also the community spirit—whether it’s gathering at the Signal Mountain Playhouse for a local production or enjoying a cup of coffee at one of the town’s cozy cafés.

Dining and shopping here is more curated than commercial, with local spots offering everything from farm-to-table meals to craft boutiques. But for more expansive options, downtown Chattanooga is a quick drive away. The area’s entertainment scene is diverse, with art galleries, music venues, and the Tennessee Aquarium all within reach. For sports fans, Chattanooga hosts professional soccer and minor league baseball teams, while college football enthusiasts are just a couple of hours from the powerhouse that is the University of Tennessee.

Healthcare is covered with Erlanger Health System and CHI Memorial Hospital nearby, both providing high-quality medical services. As for professionals, employers in and around Signal Mountain include a mix of tech startups, education, healthcare, and industries tied to the nearby river commerce of Chattanooga.

Signal Mountain stands out because it offers the perfect blend of nature, safety, and community. It’s the kind of place where you can hike in the morning, meet friends for lunch, and still have time to make it downtown for a concert or event. Families, professionals, and retirees all find something here that resonates—whether it’s the safe environment, excellent schools, or the panoramic views that make every day feel just a bit more special.

2. Oakland

• Population: 8,107
• Violent Crimes Per Capita: 10
• Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 23
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

94% Below National Crime Rate

Oakland, Tennessee sits comfortably in Fayette County, about 30 miles east of Memphis. This quiet suburb offers the best of both worlds: a small-town lifestyle and Memphis right around the corner. While Memphis looms large nearby, with its blues heritage and bustling city life, Oakland has quietly grown into its own—offering the best of suburban living with a small-town feel. It is a “hidden gem” of West Tennessee. Its steady growth, safety, and proximity to Memphis have made it a popular choice for people of all ages.

Oakland is known for its relatively low crime rate, especially when compared to larger nearby cities. This safe town draws families for this very reason, as well as its excellent public schools and relaxed, spacious neighborhoods. Single professionals appreciate the easy commute to Memphis, while retirees enjoy the quiet, slower pace. The housing market here is attractive too—new developments have been popping up, but the area hasn’t lost its green spaces or its peaceful vibe.

The entertainment scene in Oakland is modest but pleasant. Parks like Oakland City Park and Buckhead Creek provide space for outdoor activities, from walking trails to picnicking areas, making them perfect for families looking to get outside or retirees enjoying a peaceful afternoon. For those who want a little more action, the short drive to Memphis brings the excitement of professional sports, including the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies and the Triple-A Memphis Redbirds. On the cultural side, Memphis’ renowned museums and music scene are just close enough to be a regular weekend outing.

It’s great to know your health is a top priority and covered with several nearby hospitals in Memphis and local healthcare facilities offering solid medical care. Schools in Oakland, particularly in the Fayette County School District, are known for their strong performance, making the area an attractive option for families.

If you are looking for safety, security, and community-focus, Oakland should be on your short list. Oakland is the sweet spot between urban excitement and suburban tranquility, offering a lifestyle that’s as easygoing as it is connected.

3. Germantown

• Population: 39,585
• Violent Crimes Per Capita: 3
• Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 94
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

94% Below National Crime Rate

Germantown holds high marks in schools, housing, safety, and entertainment. An affluent suburb of Memphis, the town has much to offer job seekers and includes a historic downtown as well as a nationally accredited parks and recreation system. 

Germantown, Tennessee, sits just east of Memphis, on the outer edge of that city’s sprawl, but it feels like its own world entirely. Located in the southwestern part of the state, Germantown is only about 30 minutes from downtown Memphis, offering easy access to the big city’s amenities without the headaches that come with city life. It’s part of the Memphis metropolitan area, but its suburban charm, manicured streets, and low crime rate set it apart. In fact, safety is one of Germantown’s strongest selling points—crime rates here are notably low, and that peace of mind is one of the reasons why families and retirees find it so appealing.

What makes Germantown unique is the combination of old Southern charm and modern convenience. It’s a place where you’ll see horse farms and historic homes mixed in with new developments, shopping districts, and high-end dining options. The city takes its name seriously—its roots stretch back to the 19th century, and it has worked hard to preserve its historic feel, even as the community has grown. Known for its quality of life, Germantown places a premium on well-kept public spaces, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community.

For families, the school system is top-notch, with Germantown Municipal Schools being one of the best in the state. Parks are abundant, with options like Cameron Brown Park offering playgrounds, walking trails, and sports fields. The Germantown Performing Arts Center is a cultural hub, attracting concerts, theater, and family-friendly events. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the Wolf River Greenway offers miles of scenic trails for biking, jogging, or simply taking in nature.

Single professionals and retirees alike will find Germantown offers plenty to do. It’s got the upscale feel without being pretentious. Saddle Creek, one of the region’s premier shopping centers, provides a mix of high-end retail and boutique stores, making it easy to find everything from the latest fashion trends to local artisan goods. Dining ranges from casual to a refined take on Southern cuisine. And of course, the proximity to Memphis means that you can catch a Grizzlies game or see a show at the Orpheum Theatre with just a short drive.

Healthcare in Germantown is top-tier, anchored by Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown Hospital, which provides everything from emergency services to specialized care. Nearby hospitals in Memphis offer even more options, so medical needs are well-covered. For those thinking long-term, the city’s healthcare infrastructure is another reason people stay here well into their retirement years.

Germantown offers a lifestyle that blends safety, convenience, and culture. It’s a place where you can raise a family, grow a career, or settle into a slower pace of life without sacrificing access to anything important. In a way, it’s the best of both worlds—a quiet retreat with a vibrant city right on its doorstep.

4. Loudon

• Population: 5,815
• Violent Crimes Per Capita: 2
• Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 49
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

93% Below National Crime Rate

The safe and livable town of Loudon sits on the Tennessee River not too far from Knoxville. Loudon is an affordable community. If you enjoy hearing birds chirping and the whistle of a train steaming by, this might be the place for you. Loudon is safe, with a crime rate that’s consistently lower than the national average, making it an appealing place for families and retirees alike.

Sitting comfortably in the eastern part of the state, Loudon is surrounded by the rolling hills and lakes that make this region a scenic treasure. Just about 30 miles southwest of Knoxville, Loudon finds itself close enough to big-city amenities without losing its small-town feel. It’s not the place for those who crave the constant hum of urban life, but if you’re looking for a slower, more deliberate pace, Loudon fits that bill.

Loudon’s charm lies in its outdoor spaces. Tellico Lake is the crown jewel, offering boating, fishing, and watersports, while parks like Loudon Municipal Park provide ample space for picnicking, walking, and sports.

Known as the “Lakeway to the Smokies,” the city offers easy access to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the South, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which isn’t far from here. For something more rugged, you’re a short drive from the trails and waterfalls of the Great Smoky Mountains, making it a dream for hikers and nature lovers.

For families, the safety and excellent schools, like Loudon High School, are major draws. For professionals, the proximity to Knoxville allows for an easy commute to larger job markets. Retirees are often drawn to Tellico Village, a nearby community that’s one of the most sought-after retirement spots in the region, offering lakeside living with golf courses, marinas, and social clubs.

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is one of the larger employers in the area, and with its focus on energy and infrastructure, it’s been a steady presence in the region. Healthcare in Loudon is reliable, too, with Fort Loudoun Medical Center serving the area and major hospitals in Knoxville just a short drive away for specialized care.

In terms of entertainment, Knoxville provides the closest hub for professional and collegiate sports, with the Tennessee Volunteers drawing a passionate crowd during football season. Dining here is classic Southern, but you’ll also find a few hidden gems—local spots that offer everything from BBQ to farm-to-table fare. Shopping leans toward local artisans and boutiques, though you’re never far from larger retail in Knoxville.

All in all, Loudon offers a laid-back lifestyle with access to the essentials. It may not have the flash of bigger cities, but it’s the kind of place where life feels safe, manageable and grounded. The natural beauty does most of the talking and brings many people to this safe community.

5. Brentwood

• Population: 45,593
• Violent Crimes Per Capita: 9
• Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 74
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

91% Below National Crime Rate

Brentwood, Tennessee sits just south of Nashville, making it part of the thriving Middle Tennessee region while maintaining a distinctly upscale, suburban vibe. It’s the kind of place where wide, tree-lined streets give way to sprawling homes and meticulously maintained parks. At about a 20-minute drive from downtown Nashville, Brentwood offers easy access to the energy and amenities of Music City, but with a calm that feels worlds apart. Nearby Franklin provides another urban option, blending history with modern development, just a short drive away.

Known for its wealth, safety, and highly regarded public schools, this is a community that values both aesthetics and education. The community enjoys a low crime rate. Families and professionals alike appreciate the peace of mind that comes with living in one of the safest cities in Tennessee. It’s not uncommon to see children playing in the neighborhood parks or cyclists pedaling through the scenic trails, with everyone feeling a sense of security that can be rare in today’s world.

Families flock to Brentwood for its excellent schools, with the Williamson County School District frequently ranked among the best in the state. There’s also a slower pace that retirees appreciate, with an array of parks like Crockett Park and Marcella Vivrette Smith Park offering miles of walking trails, picnic spots, and nature preserves. These outdoor spaces are perfect for weekend outings, whether you’re spending time with kids or simply looking for a quiet place to take in the natural beauty.

With many Nashville bars, attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues, you will never lack for something fun to do. Sports fans have it good here with access to the Tennessee Titans (NFL) and Nashville Predators (NHL), as well as Vanderbilt University’s collegiate athletics.

Brentwood is home to some of the region’s major employers, including healthcare giants like HCA Healthcare and tech companies that have set up shop in the area, drawn by the high quality of life and proximity to Nashville. The healthcare system is strong, with nearby hospitals like Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Williamson Medical Center offering top-tier care.

With its combination of safety, quality schools, and an easy lifestyle, Brentwood appeals to a wide range of residents. Professionals find the short commute to Nashville a major perk, families love the parks and schools, and retirees appreciate the tranquility and access to healthcare. In Brentwood, you can have it all without sacrificing peace, safety, or city conveniences.

6. Atoka

• Population: 9,744
• Violent Crimes Per Capita: 21
• Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 84
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

89% Below National Crime Rate

Safety, affordability, and highly ranked schools earns Atoka a spot on this list. Residents boast that it is a great place to raise a family. Located in Tipton County, Atoka is about 30 miles north of Memphis, putting it within easy commuting distance of the big city while maintaining a distinctly suburban feel. The proximity to Memphis means you have access to all the perks of a major metropolitan area—music, barbecue, sports—without the daily hustle and bustle that comes with living in the heart of it.

Long a railroad town, Atoka remains an Amtrak stop on the Chicago–New Orleans line. Atoka’s appeal lies in its simplicity and sense of community. The crime rate is low, one of the key factors that draw families looking for a safe place to raise their kids. For retirees, it’s a peaceful spot to settle down, with easy access to healthcare, parks, and a laid-back lifestyle. For single professionals, the nearby Memphis job market offers plenty of career opportunities, and Atoka provides a quieter, more affordable home base.

The town is known for its beautiful parks and recreational areas. Nancy Lane Park is a local favorite, offering walking trails, playgrounds, and sports fields. If you’re into outdoor activities, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to find a spot to enjoy the fresh air, whether you’re looking to play a game of tennis, take a stroll, or simply enjoy a picnic. For a more immersive nature experience, Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is just a short drive away, offering hiking, fishing, and camping.

When it comes to dining and shopping, Atoka is still growing, but it’s got the basics covered—local restaurants with Southern charm, a few chain spots, and easy access to larger retail centers in nearby Covington or Memphis. Entertainment is typically found in the form of community events, like local festivals or sports games, but being so close to Memphis means you can always catch a Grizzlies NBA game or a concert at the FedEx Forum.

Families are particularly drawn to Atoka for its highly rated schools within the Tipton County School District. The schools are well-regarded, making it a great place to settle for those raising children. Nearby colleges, like the University of Memphis, offer further educational opportunities. The professionals at hospitals in Covington and Memphis will attend to all your healthcare needs.

Atoka might not have the name recognition of some other Tennessee towns, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a place that prioritizes community, safety, and a relaxed lifestyle, all while keeping you close enough to the action when you want it.

7. Church Hill

• Population: 6,664
• Violent Crimes Per Capita: 45
• Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 271
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny 

89% Below National Crime Rate

Church Hill is definitely a safe city in Tennessee. Its location allows you to enjoy beautiful small-town living with convenience to Knoxville about 90 miles away. Church Hill is tucked away in the northeastern corner of the state, nestled along the Holston River and just a short drive from the Appalachian Mountains.

It’s a place that feels worlds away from the fast pace of the city but close enough to larger hubs to never feel isolated. About 10 miles east is Kingsport, the closest of the Tri-Cities area that also includes Johnson City and Bristol.

Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Church Hill’s safety is one of the biggest selling points. Crime rates here are well below the national average, which makes it ideal for families looking to settle down, retirees wanting a peaceful environment, or even single professionals who appreciate a tight-knit community.

For families, the city offers a simple but rewarding lifestyle. Kids can explore Laurel Run Park, a local gem that features hiking trails, picnic spots, and plenty of space to roam. Just a bit farther out, Warriors’ Path State Park in nearby Kingsport opens up a world of outdoor activities, from boating to camping. Retirees might find Church Hill’s slower pace and access to nature appealing, while single professionals could be drawn to its proximity to Kingsport’s growing job market. Major employers in the area include Eastman Chemical Company, Holston Valley Medical Center, and Domtar, providing stability and economic opportunities for residents.

Entertainment here leans toward the low-key, but that’s part of the charm. You’ll find locally owned restaurants, diners, and coffee shops that make dining feel personal. Shopping is more functional than extravagant, though you can always venture into Kingsport or Johnson City for more variety. The region’s deep ties to country music and bluegrass mean that live music events are common, and for sports fans, East Tennessee State University in Johnson City offers collegiate sports, while professional sports are just a road trip away in Knoxville or even Nashville.

Healthcare is solid, with nearby Holston Valley Medical Center offering a full range of services, and education is anchored by Hawkins County Schools, which provide a quality experience for K-12 students. The community values education, and with several nearby colleges, including Northeast State Community College and East Tennessee State University, there’s no shortage of opportunities for lifelong learning.

People choose to stay because they find peace here. That, along with its safety, affordability, and sense of community, makes Church Hill a strong contender when compared to other equally enticing towns.

8. Franklin

• Population: 88,867
• Violent Crimes Per Capita: 11
• Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 116
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

89% Below National Crime Rate

Franklin, Tennessee, is one of those places that, at first glance, feels like the perfect marriage of Southern charm and modern convenience. Just 20 miles south of Nashville, Franklin sits in the heart of Williamson County, close enough to tap into the energy and culture of Music City but far enough away to offer a more laid-back lifestyle. Franklin is a thriving community that’s managed to strike a balance between honoring its past and embracing the present.

About twice the size of fellow Nashville suburb Brentwood, the quaint town of Franklin is a history buff’s dream. Plus, the country music stars who don’t live in Brentwood typically call Franklin home. Franklin is known for its rich history like the famous Battle of Franklin and historic landmarks like Carnton and the Carter House. This bustling city has a reputation for being family-friendly, safe, and full of opportunities.

Its crime rate is relatively low compared to the national average, making it appealing to those looking for a secure place to settle down. Families are drawn to the high-performing schools and plentiful parks, while single professionals enjoy the proximity to Nashville’s job market and vibrant music scene. Retirees find comfort in the quiet, scenic beauty of the rolling hills, as well as the upscale amenities and healthcare options.

Entertainment in Franklin runs the gamut from outdoor concerts at the FirstBank Amphitheater to boutique shopping on Main Street, where you’ll find a mix of local artisans and trendy new shops. The Factory at Franklin, a revitalized industrial space, offers a cool mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options that appeal to both locals and visitors. For dining, Franklin has everything from Southern comfort food to high-end farm-to-table experiences.

If you’re into outdoor activities, Franklin delivers there too. Parks like Pinkerton Park and Harlinsdale Farm provide spaces for walking, picnicking, and even equestrian events. A short drive away, you’ve got Radnor Lake State Park, perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing. For sports fans, the proximity to Nashville means easy access to Titans football games or Predators hockey matches, along with the Vanderbilt Commodores and other collegiate sports.

Major employers in the area include Nissan North America and health insurance giant Cigna, alongside a growing tech sector that’s made Franklin a bit of a hotspot for professionals. The healthcare scene is strong too, with Williamson Medical Center serving the community and larger hospitals just up the road in Nashville.

Franklin has a small-town feel without the small-town limitations. The mix of history, modern amenities, low crime, and high quality of life makes it stand out in a sea of similar locales. Franklin offers access to the energy of a major city and the peace of a small Southern town. That’s a rare combination, and one that’s hard to beat.

9. Spring Hill

• Population: 53,301
• Violent Crimes Per Capita: 19
• Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 97
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

87% Below National Crime Rate

A suburb of Nashville, Spring Hill is expanding quickly thanks to its superlative education system. Spring Hill is about 35 miles south of Nashville, nestled right between the urban buzz of Music City and the slower pace of rural Tennessee. You get the best of both worlds here: close enough to Nashville’s big-city attractions but far enough away to enjoy the tranquility of a smaller town. It’s just down I-65, so hopping into the city for a night of live music or a Titans game is as easy as a short drive. But when you return to Spring Hill, life slows down in a way that’s unmistakably Southern.

Spring Hill’s identity is tied to both its rich history and rapid growth. The city is known for its role in the Civil War—specifically the Battle of Spring Hill—and you can still visit places like the Rippavilla Plantation to get a sense of its past. But this isn’t just a town stuck in time; Spring Hill has become a booming suburban area, attracting families, single professionals, and retirees alike. The draw? Safety, great schools, and a quality of life that’s hard to match. The crime rate is impressively low, which adds to the sense of security that residents here appreciate.

For families, the public schools are key, with Williamson County Schools and Maury County Schools both serving parts of the city. The area’s parks, like Harvey Park and Port Royal Park, offer walking trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities, making them popular weekend destinations. Meanwhile, singles and professionals find themselves drawn to the city’s mix of convenience and calm, with new dining spots and breweries popping up, especially in the growing neighborhood pockets.

From antique shopping in the local boutiques to enjoying a meal at the locally loved restaurants, Spring Hill will win you over. If you’re into sports, Nashville’s professional teams—the Titans (NFL) and Predators (NHL)—are close enough to scratch that itch. Spring Hill is also home to the massive General Motors manufacturing plant, one of the area’s largest employers, which anchors the local economy alongside other growing industries.

Healthcare in Spring Hill is solid, with the TriStar Spring Hill ER offering immediate care, and nearby hospitals in Franklin or Nashville for more specialized treatment. As for higher education, you’ve got Columbia State Community College just down the road, and Vanderbilt University isn’t far either.

Spring Hill is a growing city with a strong sense of community, close to the opportunities of Nashville but offering a quieter, safer place to call home. Whether you’re raising kids, starting a career, or looking for a peaceful place to retire, there’s something in Spring Hill that makes it feel like the right choice.

10. Collegedale

• Population: 11,927
• Violent Crimes Per Capita: 8
• Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 148
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

83% Below National Crime Rate

Collegedale, Tennessee, is a close suburb of Chattanooga. In about 20 minutes by car, you can enjoy the revitalized Chatanooga downtown and riverside attractions. Closer to home, residents appreciate the suburban feel and security.

Collegedale has carved out its own identity, driven largely by the presence of Southern Adventist University. This academic focus gives the town a distinctly youthful energy, yet it’s balanced by a sense of tranquility that appeals to families, single professionals, and retirees alike. It’s known for being safe, with a notably low crime rate. That, combined with a solid education system and proximity to Chattanooga, makes it particularly attractive place to live.

The town’s parks offer plenty of space to breathe. Enjoy the walking trails and sunshine at Veterans Memorial Park and Wolftever Creek Greenway. The town is close to some of the best hiking and rock climbing in the region, thanks to the surrounding Appalachian foothills.

For a more adventurous day out, Harrison Bay State Park, just a few miles away, provides options for boating, hiking, and camping. Museums and entertainment are just a short trip into Chattanooga, where the Tennessee Aquarium and Hunter Museum of American Art provide a cultural escape.

Dining and shopping in Collegedale are modest but growing. There’s charm in the local eateries and boutique shops. Being so close to Chattanooga offers easy access to the Lookouts, a minor league baseball team, and the Chattanooga Mocs, a competitive college sports program. The city is also home to several major employers, including McKee Foods (makers of Little Debbie snacks), making it an attractive place for young professionals looking for career opportunities.

Healthcare is solid, with Erlanger East Hospital nearby and a range of medical services available in Chattanooga. Schools are well-rated, with Southern Adventist University being the centerpiece of higher education. The university brings an intellectual and cultural vibe that’s uncommon for a town of this size.

Collegedale isn’t trying to compete with the bigger cities—it’s a place that knows its strengths. It offers safety, education, and access to both outdoor adventure and urban conveniences, all while maintaining a small-town feel. Collegedale strikes a unique balance between opportunity and serenity. It’s the kind of place where people stick around, and for good reason.