List of Cities in Tennessee

Tennessee has around 345 incorporated cities and towns. The state capital is Nashville, which is also the largest city, famous for its music industry, particularly country music. Other large cities include Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, Franklin, Jackson, Johnson City, and Bartlett. Nashville and Memphis dominate the state’s urban landscape, with Nashville being the cultural and political hub and Memphis serving as a center for shipping and logistics. Tennessee’s smaller towns are often tied to agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, especially near the Great Smoky Mountains.

1. Memphis

City Facts

  • Population: Approximately 621,777 (2023 estimates)
  • Area Codes: 901
  • Zip Codes: 37501–38197
  • County: Shelby County

Geography and History

Memphis is located in southwestern Tennessee, on the Mississippi River. The city has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Founded in 1819, Memphis grew quickly due to its strategic location on the river, making it a key transportation and trade center. In the 19th century, cotton and lumber industries flourished, with the city becoming a major hub for cotton export. The city also played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement, being the location of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination in 1968. Known as the birthplace of blues music, Memphis has a rich musical heritage that includes icons like Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and Johnny Cash. Today, it is an important cultural, commercial, and logistical center.

Colleges and Universities

  • University of Memphis: A major public research university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly known for its business, law, and engineering schools.
  • Rhodes College: A private liberal arts college known for strong programs in the humanities, sciences, and business.
  • Christian Brothers University: A private Catholic university offering programs in engineering, education, and business.
  • LeMoyne-Owen College: A historically black liberal arts college offering degrees in business, education, and the humanities.
  • Southwest Tennessee Community College: Offers associate degrees and certificates, serving as a key community college in the Memphis area.

Major Landmarks

Memphis is home to Graceland, Elvis Presley’s famous estate and one of the most visited attractions in the United States. Beale Street, a historic street in downtown Memphis, is the heart of the city’s blues scene, featuring clubs, restaurants, and live music. The National Civil Rights Museum, located at the Lorraine Motel, is a major landmark commemorating the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Mud Island River Park offers scenic views of the Mississippi River, while the Stax Museum of American Soul Music celebrates the city’s rich musical history. The Memphis Zoo and the Sun Studio, where legendary musicians recorded, are also key attractions.

2. Nashville

City Facts

  • Population: Approximately 678,851 (2023 estimates)
  • Area Codes: 615, 629
  • Zip Codes: 37011–37250
  • County: Davidson County

Geography and History

Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, is located on the Cumberland River in the central part of the state. It has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Founded in 1779, Nashville grew rapidly due to its location as a transportation hub and its importance as a river port. The city became a center for the cotton trade and manufacturing during the 19th century. Known as “Music City,” Nashville is famous for its country music heritage, with the Grand Ole Opry and the rise of the recording industry in the 20th century solidifying its status as the heart of the country music world. Today, Nashville is a major center for healthcare, education, and tourism.

Colleges and Universities

  • Vanderbilt University: A prestigious private research university known for its law, business, and medical schools, as well as strong liberal arts programs.
  • Tennessee State University: A historically black public university offering programs in business, engineering, and the sciences.
  • Belmont University: A private Christian university recognized for its music business program, as well as strong offerings in law, business, and healthcare.
  • Lipscomb University: A private Christian liberal arts college offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields like education, business, and theology.
  • Nashville State Community College: A public community college offering associate degrees and technical certificates.

Major Landmarks

Nashville’s most iconic landmark is the Grand Ole Opry, a world-famous country music venue. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum chronicles the history of country music and its stars. The Parthenon in Centennial Park is a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek temple, reflecting Nashville’s nickname, “The Athens of the South.” Ryman Auditorium, once the home of the Grand Ole Opry, is another significant music landmark. The Johnny Cash Museum and the Frist Art Museum are also cultural highlights. The Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park offers panoramic views of the Tennessee State Capitol, while Broadway is a bustling area filled with live music, restaurants, and nightlife.

3. Knoxville

City Facts

  • Population: Approximately 192,648 (2023 estimates)
  • Area Codes: 865
  • Zip Codes: 37901–37998
  • County: Knox County

Geography and History

Knoxville is located in eastern Tennessee, at the junction of the Tennessee River and the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. The city has a humid subtropical climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Founded in 1791, Knoxville served as the first capital of Tennessee. It grew as an important regional trade center, with river transport and railroads driving its early development. The city played a key role in the Civil War, and post-war industrialization further expanded its economy. Today, Knoxville is known for its proximity to outdoor recreation in the Smoky Mountains and for being a major hub for education, energy research, and industry.

Colleges and Universities

  • University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK): The flagship public university of the University of Tennessee system, known for its strong engineering, business, and sports programs.
  • Pellissippi State Community College: A public community college offering associate degrees and certifications in various fields.
  • Johnson University: A private Christian university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in theology, education, and business.
  • South College: A private institution offering programs in health sciences, business, and legal studies.
  • Tennessee College of Applied Technology (Knoxville): Provides technical education and vocational training for students seeking to enter the workforce.

Major Landmarks

Knoxville is home to the Sunsphere, an iconic tower built for the 1982 World’s Fair, offering panoramic views of the city. Market Square is a lively downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and live entertainment. The Knoxville Museum of Art showcases regional and contemporary art, while the East Tennessee History Center highlights the city’s role in the Civil War and Appalachian culture. The University of Tennessee campus features Neyland Stadium, home to the Tennessee Volunteers football team. Ijams Nature Center, located along the Tennessee River, offers hiking trails and wildlife exhibits. The nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts.

4. Chattanooga

City Facts

  • Population: Approximately 186,788 (2023 estimates)
  • Area Codes: 423
  • Zip Codes: 37341, 37401–37450
  • County: Hamilton County

Geography and History

Chattanooga is located in southeastern Tennessee, along the Tennessee River and surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains. The city experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Chattanooga was founded in 1839, and its location at the crossroads of river and rail transport made it a key hub during the Civil War. The city was the site of several important battles, including the Battle of Chattanooga. After the war, the city became an industrial center, particularly in manufacturing and transportation. In recent years, Chattanooga has transformed into a tech and tourism hub, known for its revitalized downtown and natural beauty.

Colleges and Universities

  • University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC): A public university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees, known for its programs in business, engineering, and education.
  • Chattanooga State Community College: A public community college offering associate degrees and technical certifications.
  • Southern Adventist University: A private Christian university located nearby in Collegedale, known for its nursing, business, and education programs.
  • Tennessee College of Applied Technology (Chattanooga): Offers vocational training in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, and information technology.
  • Richmont Graduate University: A private graduate school offering advanced degrees in counseling and ministry.

Major Landmarks

Chattanooga is famous for the Tennessee Aquarium, one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world, located along the city’s scenic riverfront. Lookout Mountain is home to several attractions, including Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the historic Incline Railway. The Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, connects downtown Chattanooga to the North Shore district. The Hunter Museum of American Art is located atop a bluff overlooking the river, featuring works from the colonial period to modern times. The Chattanooga Choo Choo, a former train station, has been converted into a hotel and entertainment complex, reflecting the city’s railroad history.

5. Clarksville

City Facts

  • Population: Approximately 170,957 (2023 estimates)
  • Area Codes: 931
  • Zip Codes: 37040–37044
  • County: Montgomery County

Geography and History

Clarksville is located in northern Tennessee, along the Cumberland River and close to the Kentucky border. The city has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Clarksville was founded in 1785 and played a key role as a river port and trading center in the 19th century. Its economy historically relied on agriculture, particularly tobacco, and the military, with the nearby Fort Campbell Army base contributing significantly to the local economy. In recent years, Clarksville has experienced rapid growth, driven by its proximity to Nashville and its appeal to military families.

Colleges and Universities

  • Austin Peay State University (APSU): A public university offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly strong in education, nursing, and the arts.
  • Daymar College: A private institution offering career-focused programs in healthcare, business, and criminal justice.
  • Tennessee College of Applied Technology (Clarksville Campus): Provides vocational training in fields such as healthcare, automotive technology, and business.
  • Nashville State Community College (Clarksville Campus): Offers associate degrees and certifications, with transfer opportunities to four-year universities.
  • Bethel University (Clarksville Campus): A private Christian university offering degrees in business, education, and criminal justice.

Major Landmarks

Clarksville’s downtown historic district features the Customs House Museum and Cultural Center, which showcases local history, art, and science exhibits. Dunbar Cave State Park, located just outside the city, offers hiking trails and guided tours of the cave’s prehistoric cave art. The Roxy Regional Theatre, a historic theater built in 1947, hosts live performances and films. Fort Defiance Civil War Park offers insight into the city’s role during the Civil War, with exhibits and walking trails. The Wilma Rudolph Event Center is named after the Olympic gold medalist from Clarksville, celebrating her achievements and legacy. The Cumberland RiverWalk is a popular destination for walking, biking, and community events along the river.

List of All Cities and Towns in Tennessee in Alphabetical Order

  1. Adams, Tennessee
  2. Adamsville, Tennessee
  3. Alamo, Tennessee
  4. Alcoa, Tennessee
  5. Alexandria, Tennessee
  6. Allardt, Tennessee
  7. Altamont, Tennessee
  8. Ardmore, Tennessee
  9. Arlington, Tennessee
  10. Ashland City, Tennessee
  11. Athens, Tennessee
  12. Atoka, Tennessee
  13. Atwood, Tennessee
  14. Auburntown, Tennessee
  15. Baxter, Tennessee
  16. Beersheba Springs, Tennessee
  17. Bell Buckle, Tennessee
  18. Bells, Tennessee
  19. Benton, Tennessee
  20. Bethel Springs, Tennessee
  21. Big Sandy, Tennessee
  22. Blaine, Tennessee
  23. Blountville, Tennessee
  24. Bluff City, Tennessee
  25. Bolivar, Tennessee
  26. Braden, Tennessee
  27. Bradford, Tennessee
  28. Brentwood, Tennessee
  29. Brighton, Tennessee
  30. Bristol, Tennessee
  31. Brownsville, Tennessee
  32. Bruceton, Tennessee
  33. Bulls Gap, Tennessee
  34. Burlison, Tennessee
  35. Burns, Tennessee
  36. Byrdstown, Tennessee
  37. Calhoun, Tennessee
  38. Camden, Tennessee
  39. Carthage, Tennessee
  40. Caryville, Tennessee
  41. Cedar Hill, Tennessee
  42. Celina, Tennessee
  43. Centerville, Tennessee
  44. Chapel Hill, Tennessee
  45. Charleston, Tennessee
  46. Charlotte, Tennessee
  47. Chattanooga, Tennessee
  48. Church Hill, Tennessee
  49. Clarksburg, Tennessee
  50. Clarksville, Tennessee
  51. Cleveland, Tennessee
  52. Clifton, Tennessee
  53. Clinton, Tennessee
  54. Coalmont, Tennessee
  55. Collegedale, Tennessee
  56. Collierville, Tennessee
  57. Collinwood, Tennessee
  58. Columbia, Tennessee
  59. Cookeville, Tennessee
  60. Copperhill, Tennessee
  61. Cornersville, Tennessee
  62. Covington, Tennessee
  63. Cowan, Tennessee
  64. Crab Orchard, Tennessee
  65. Cross Plains, Tennessee
  66. Crossville, Tennessee
  67. Crump, Tennessee
  68. Cumberland City, Tennessee
  69. Cumberland Gap, Tennessee
  70. Dandridge, Tennessee
  71. Dayton, Tennessee
  72. Decatur, Tennessee
  73. Decaturville, Tennessee
  74. Decherd, Tennessee
  75. Dickson, Tennessee
  76. Dover, Tennessee
  77. Dowelltown, Tennessee
  78. Doyle, Tennessee
  79. Dresden, Tennessee
  80. Ducktown, Tennessee
  81. Dunlap, Tennessee
  82. Dyer, Tennessee
  83. Dyersburg, Tennessee
  84. Eagleville, Tennessee
  85. Elizabethton, Tennessee
  86. Elkton, Tennessee
  87. Englewood, Tennessee
  88. Enville, Tennessee
  89. Erin, Tennessee
  90. Erwin, Tennessee
  91. Estill Springs, Tennessee
  92. Ethridge, Tennessee
  93. Etowah, Tennessee
  94. Fairview, Tennessee
  95. Fall Branch, Tennessee
  96. Fayetteville, Tennessee
  97. Finger, Tennessee
  98. Franklin, Tennessee
  99. Friendship, Tennessee
  100. Friendsville, Tennessee
  101. Gadsden, Tennessee
  102. Gainesboro, Tennessee
  103. Gallatin, Tennessee
  104. Gallaway, Tennessee
  105. Gates, Tennessee
  106. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
  107. Germantown, Tennessee
  108. Gibson, Tennessee
  109. Gleason, Tennessee
  110. Goodlettsville, Tennessee
  111. Goodlettsville, TN Demographi
  112. Gordonsville, Tennessee
  113. Grand Junction, Tennessee
  114. Graysville, Tennessee
  115. Greenback, Tennessee
  116. Greenbrier, Tennessee
  117. Greeneville, Tennessee
  118. Greenfield, Tennessee
  119. Gruetli Laager, Tennessee
  120. Guys, Tennessee
  121. Halls, Tennessee
  122. Harriman, Tennessee
  123. Harrison, Tennessee
  124. Harrogate, Tennessee
  125. Hartsville, Tennessee
  126. Helenwood, Tennessee
  127. Henderson, Tennessee
  128. Hendersonville, Tennessee
  129. Henning, Tennessee
  130. Henry, Tennessee
  131. Hohenwald, Tennessee
  132. Hollow Rock, Tennessee
  133. Hornbeak, Tennessee
  134. Hornsby, Tennessee
  135. Humboldt, Tennessee
  136. Huntingdon, Tennessee
  137. Huntland, Tennessee
  138. Huntsville, Tennessee
  139. Iron City, Tennessee
  140. Jacksboro, Tennessee
  141. Jackson, Tennessee
  142. Jamestown, Tennessee
  143. Jasper, Tennessee
  144. Jefferson City, Tennessee
  145. Jellico, Tennessee
  146. Johnson City, Tennessee
  147. Jonesborough, Tennessee
  148. Kenton, Tennessee
  149. Kingsport, Tennessee
  150. Kingston Springs, Tennessee
  151. Kingston, Tennessee
  152. La Follette, Tennessee
  153. La Vergne, Tennessee
  154. Lafayette, Tennessee
  155. Lake City, Tennessee
  156. Lawrenceburg, Tennessee
  157. Lebanon, Tennessee
  158. Lenoir City, Tennessee
  159. Lewisburg, Tennessee
  160. Lexington, Tennessee
  161. Liberty, Tennessee
  162. Linden, Tennessee
  163. Livingston, Tennessee
  164. Lobelville, Tennessee
  165. Lookout Mountain, Tennessee
  166. Loretto, Tennessee
  167. Loudon, Tennessee
  168. Louisville, Tennessee
  169. Luttrell, Tennessee
  170. Lynchburg, Tennessee
  171. Lynnville, Tennessee
  172. Madisonville, Tennessee
  173. Manchester, Tennessee
  174. Martin, Tennessee
  175. Maryville, Tennessee
  176. Mascot, Tennessee
  177. Mason, Tennessee
  178. Maury City, Tennessee
  179. Maynardville, Tennessee
  180. Mc Ewen, Tennessee
  181. Mc Kenzie, Tennessee
  182. Mc Lemoresville, Tennessee
  183. Mc Minnville, Tennessee
  184. Medina, Tennessee
  185. Memphis, Tennessee
  186. Michie, Tennessee
  187. Middleton, Tennessee
  188. Midway, Tennessee
  189. Milan, Tennessee
  190. Milledgeville, Tennessee
  191. Millington, Tennessee
  192. Minor Hill, Tennessee
  193. Mitchellville, Tennessee
  194. Monteagle, Tennessee
  195. Monterey, Tennessee
  196. Morrison, Tennessee
  197. Morristown, Tennessee
  198. Moscow, Tennessee
  199. Mosheim, Tennessee
  200. Mount Carmel, Tennessee
  201. Mount Juliet, Tennessee
  202. Mount Pleasant, Tennessee
  203. Mountain City, Tennessee
  204. Munford, Tennessee
  205. Murfreesboro, Tennessee
  206. Nashville, Tennessee
  207. New Johnsonville, Tennessee
  208. New Market, Tennessee
  209. New Tazewell, Tennessee
  210. Newbern, Tennessee
  211. Newport, Tennessee
  212. Niota, Tennessee
  213. Nolensville, Tennessee
  214. Norris, Tennessee
  215. Oakdale, Tennessee
  216. Oakland, Tennessee
  217. Obion, Tennessee
  218. Oliver Springs, Tennessee
  219. Oneida, Tennessee
  220. Ooltewah, Tennessee
  221. Orlinda, Tennessee
  222. Palmer, Tennessee
  223. Paris, Tennessee
  224. Parrottsville, Tennessee
  225. Parsons, Tennessee
  226. Pegram, Tennessee
  227. Petersburg, Tennessee
  228. Philadelphia, Tennessee
  229. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
  230. Pikeville, Tennessee
  231. Pleasant Hill, Tennessee
  232. Pleasant View, Tennessee
  233. Portland, Tennessee
  234. Pulaski, Tennessee
  235. Puryear, Tennessee
  236. Ramer, Tennessee
  237. Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee
  238. Ridgely, Tennessee
  239. Ridgetop, Tennessee
  240. Ripley, Tennessee
  241. Rives, Tennessee
  242. Roan Mountain, Tennessee
  243. Rockford, Tennessee
  244. Rockwood, Tennessee
  245. Rogersville, Tennessee
  246. Rossville, Tennessee
  247. Rutherford, Tennessee
  248. Rutledge, Tennessee
  249. Saint Joseph, Tennessee
  250. Saltillo, Tennessee
  251. Samburg, Tennessee
  252. Sardis, Tennessee
  253. Savannah, Tennessee
  254. Scotts Hill, Tennessee
  255. Selmer, Tennessee
  256. Sevierville, Tennessee
  257. Sewanee, Tennessee
  258. Seymour, Tennessee
  259. Sharon, Tennessee
  260. Shelbyville, Tennessee
  261. Signal Mountain, Tennessee
  262. Smithville, Tennessee
  263. Smyrna, Tennessee
  264. Sneedville, Tennessee
  265. Soddy Daisy, Tennessee
  266. Somerville, Tennessee
  267. South Fulton, Tennessee
  268. South Pittsburg, Tennessee
  269. Sparta, Tennessee
  270. Spencer, Tennessee
  271. Spring City, Tennessee
  272. Spring Hill, Tennessee
  273. Springfield, Tennessee
  274. Stanton, Tennessee
  275. Stantonville, Tennessee
  276. Sunbright, Tennessee
  277. Surgoinsville, Tennessee
  278. Sweetwater, Tennessee
  279. Tazewell, Tennessee
  280. Tellico Plains, Tennessee
  281. Tennessee Ridge, Tennessee
  282. Tiptonville, Tennessee
  283. Toone, Tennessee
  284. Townsend, Tennessee
  285. Tracy City, Tennessee
  286. Trenton, Tennessee
  287. Trezevant, Tennessee
  288. Trimble, Tennessee
  289. Troy, Tennessee
  290. Tullahoma, Tennessee
  291. Unicoi, Tennessee
  292. Union City, Tennessee
  293. Vanleer, Tennessee
  294. Vonore, Tennessee
  295. Wartburg, Tennessee
  296. Wartrace, Tennessee
  297. Watauga, Tennessee
  298. Watertown, Tennessee
  299. Waverly, Tennessee
  300. Waynesboro, Tennessee
  301. Westmoreland, Tennessee
  302. White Bluff, Tennessee
  303. White House, Tennessee
  304. White Pine, Tennessee
  305. Whiteville, Tennessee
  306. Whitwell, Tennessee
  307. Williston, Tennessee
  308. Winchester, Tennessee
  309. Winfield, Tennessee
  310. Woodbury, Tennessee
  311. Woodland Mills, Tennessee
  312. Yorkville, Tennessee