Cookeville is a rapidly growing city of about 35,000 between Knoxville and Nashville, known primarily for Tennessee Tech University. With a growing job market, support for small businesses and a housing market on the rise, Cookeville offers a blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. “We really have the best of both worlds,” says Laurin Wheaton, mayor since 2022. “We’re a community that really supports one another.''
The city of Cookeville was founded in 1845.
Downtown Cookeville is very walkable with many shops and restaurants.
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Midcentury homes at an accessible price point
Nearly 1,400 homes sold in and around Cookeville between December 2023 and December 2024. Housing inventory is low, but Cookeville’s residential spaces are growing. “We know there is a need for housing. We’re still behind, but we’re working on it,” says Wheaton. “We had a record-breaking number of residential building permits allocated, so we’re seeing a ton of new developments. There are a lot of single-family houses and townhomes going up, but we’re not really big on apartments.” Cookeville’s midcentury homes and residential lots are both affordable for and appealing to first-time buyers. The most common architecture is the classic ranch-style home, but buyers will also find more traditional homes. Typically, lots sell for between $15,000 and $60,000. Most of the city’s homes average a sale price between $250,000 and $400,000, with a median of $354,000.
Homeowners in Cookeville keep their front yards clean and manicured.
Cape Cod-style homes with dormer windows can be viewed in Cookeville's Four area.
Newly built modern farmhouses are popping up in the Eight area of Cookeville.
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Ample parks and recreation areas
Six state parks surround Cookeville, including Cummins Falls State Park and Burgess Falls State Park. While nearly all the landscape immediately outside the city is rural, the green spaces in town are focused on specific uses. “We have multiple parks, but Cane Creek Park is probably the most popular,” says Wheaton. “It has a mountain bike trail, disc golf and a dog park, and there is just plenty to do for the whole family.” Along with ample outdoor activities, the park features a recreation center with basketball, yoga and more. Dogwood Park sits behind the city library with a large playground, picnic tables and an amphitheater. “It’s at the heart of the city,” says Wheaton. “It’s where we have Symphony in the Park, Shakespeare in the Park, the tree lighting and things like that. It’s also next to the Performing Arts Center where dance recitals are held.”
Take in the beautiful lake views at Cane Creek Park in Cookeville's Five.
The sound of the waterfall at City Lake Natural Area in Cookeville is soothing to the mind.
Parkview Park's skate park has multiple ramps and rails for skaters.
City Lake Natural Area boasts a 35-acre lake near Eight.
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A growing job market
Cookeville’s job market is rising. “We really want to make sure college students have opportunities after they graduate,” says Wheaton. “We want them to stay here and start a career, buy a home, and set roots.” Top employers include Cookeville Regional Medical Center, Putnam County School District and Tennessee Tech itself. Career opportunities align with Tennessee Tech’s top majors such as engineering and medicine. Cookeville is also a town that supports the endeavors of entrepreneurs. “Small businesses are the pulse of our community,” says Wheaton. Along with the support of the local government, mom-and-pop shops get plenty of love from the community. In fact, residents created Shop Local Cookeville, a free marketplace to promote and discuss local businesses.
Tennessee Tech is a public 4-year school in Cookeville with over 10,000 enrolled students.
Tennessee Tech University and Cookeville's Four have multiple transit stops for commuting.
Students attending Tennessee Tech University can walk to campus from their dorms in Cookeville.
Cookeville Regional Medical Center is a major employer.
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Dining out in Cookeville
Cookeville has its share of eclectic, locally owned restaurants. Most of these are in the center of town, where residents can drop into places such as Mauricio’s Italian Kitchen and Cinco Amigos. For drinks, there’s Hooligans Half Irish Pub, a sports bar. Spankies is a bar closer to the north end of the city, where folks go for burgers, beer, steaks and prime rib.
Midtown Social has a large dining room and serves food and cocktails in Five.
Hooligans Half Irish Pub offers traditional pub grub to its visitors.
Mauricio's Italian Restaurant offers upscale Italian fare.
Cinco Amigos offers traditional Mexican cuisine.
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Highway 111 and Interstate 40 make for easy trips
Highway 111 and Interstate 40 cross through the area and provide easy access to Nashville, which is 80 miles west, and Knoxville, which is 100 miles east. Even with heavy traffic, a commute from the south end of the city to its center takes 18 minutes by car. The UCHRA’s bus service, the Go Route, services Cookeville and the Tennessee Tech campus. It's been free to ride since mid-2024 for residents. For flights, residents head about 72 miles east to the Nashville International Airport.
Cookeville has public transportation to get around town.
Residents of Five can catch a bus into Downtown Cookeville during certain hours.
I-40 is a major interstate that runs East/West across the entire state of Tennessee.
Highway 111 is a major North/South interstate that runs through the heart of Cookeville.
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Putnam County Schools
Putnam County Schools has a B-plus rating on Niche and rates higher for college preparation. Of the district’s 22 schools, 11 are in Cookeville. The town has six elementary schools, three middle and one high school. Across these schools, the average student-to-teacher ratio is 17-to-1, which is on par with the national average. Tennessee Tech, with about 10,000 students, has a B-plus rating on Niche and is ranked the second-best public university in Tennessee.
Cookeville High School offers a variety of clubs and activities for students.
As of 2024, Capshaw Elementary had a student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1.
As of 2024, Cane Creek Elementary has a student-to-teacher ratio of 13:1.
Cookeville is home to the Cavaliers at Cookeville High School.
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Crime and tornadoes in Cookeville
According to the FBI statistics, Cookeville’s rate of reported violent crime was 3.5 times lower than that of the state and about half the national average. The city's rate of reported property crime is about 4% higher than the state norm.
Tennessee experiences its fair share of tornadoes, and of its towns and cities, Cookeville ranks approximately in the middle of them for overall risk. In 2020, a storm struck, killing 19. “When that deadly tornado swept through here in 2020…I’ve never seen a community come together and support each other the way we did then. There is only one Cookeville.”
Written By
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Photography Contributed By
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Video By
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Cookeville, TN sell after 53 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Cookeville, TN over the last 12 months is $350,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this beautiful new construction home located in the desirable Kensington subdivision within Cookeville city limits! Offering 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this thoughtfully designed home combines quality finishes with a peaceful setting that's hard to find. Spacious kitchen with abundant cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, under-cabinet lighting, and a window above the sink
SINGLE STORY with great hosting space, including large living room, open kitchen, covered front AND covered back porch!! The Ellery in the Reserve at the Country Club is a dream come true, and can be YOURS FOR THE HOLIDAYS with a mid-November closing. Located on a level lot, this home is conveniently located near the entrance of the Reserve, which connects to the greenway stretching from Algood
Start Autumn off in your BRAND NEW HOME! Walk in to the Willow and be in awe of the open floorplan, modern Luxury Vinyl flooring, spacious kitchen island, and too many features to list! You will love the extra large kitchen island, and designated dining space, convenient to the back patio - an entertainer's dream! Walk upstairs to a functional loft space, perfect for a secondary entertainment
Tucked away on 2.6 private, wooded acres, this striking three-story retreat offers complete seclusion and a true treehouse living experience. Surrounded by mature trees, the home blends nature and comfort with expansive views and exceptional outdoor living. The main living area features floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light, along with a cozy fireplace that anchors the
Country living, yet close to town. Homes must be 75% brick or stone with developer approving all house plans. Centralized mailbox system. All lots have been surveyed and soil tested. No HOA.
Looking for a home that works for the whole family-including aging parents or older kids craving their own space? This spacious home boasts 3.5 baths on 0.47 acres and delivers a true multigenerational layout. The lower level offers a private walk-in entry with no stairs, plus a versatile flex space, ideal for in-laws or adult children who want independence without losing connection. Upstairs,
Discover the perfect combination of comfort, style, and convenience in this beautifully designed new construction home offering approximately 1,312 sq. ft. of thoughtfully planned living space. The open-concept floor plan creates a bright, welcoming atmosphere that's ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. At the center of the home is a stunning kitchen featuring beautiful quartz
Embrace the perfect blend of modern comfort and 1940s charm in this beautifully renovated home located just minutes from downtown Algood on 1.7 acres. While modern updates have been made, the enchanting charm still shines through, making this delightful home a personal haven. The property offers a fresh, brand-new interior and exterior, featuring a spacious covered front porch and a new concrete
ONLINE ONLY AUCTION – Bidding ends Thursday, August 20th at 12:00 Noon! Great investment opportunity at 960 Bill Smith Rd., Cookeville. This 3-bedroom, 1-bath brick home is ready for updates and offers excellent potential as a flip, rental property, or affordable home. The oversized crawlspace provides plenty of room for vehicle storage, a workshop, or additional storage space. Conveniently
Beautiful 60 acre tract located in Jackson County, Tennessee, just 25 minutes to downtown Cookeville. This mostly wooded property offers over 1,300 feet of road frontage, 2 year around ponds, cascading waterfall, and is unrestricted, providing endless possibilities for hunting, recreation, building, or a private retreat. Peaceful and quiet with abundant wildlife, the land offers excellent privacy
EXTREMELY RARE FIND!! Country living with the convenience of living in a desired part of Cookeville! LARGE BRICK HOMEON 2.11 PRIVATE ACRES (mostly flat & cleared). Move in ready! If you love the peace & tranquility of the country but also need theconvenience of Cookeville, this property is what you've been looking for. Picture yourself sitting with your morning coffee, while you
Adorable & well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home featuring soaring 9-foot ceilings & elegant crown molding throughout. Beautiful hardwood floors flow through the living area, kitchen, & spacious primary bedroom, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The open kitchen and dining area offer the perfect space for everyday living & entertaining, complete with stainless steel appliances, custom
Nestled in the heart of Cookeville's historic district, this extraordinary Mediterranean Revival estate offers timeless elegance, exceptional privacy, and one of the most prestigious settings in Putnam County. Situated on an impressive 2.68 acres with frontage on North Dixie Avenue, 4th Street, and North Jefferson Avenue, this remarkable property presents a rare opportunity to own a truly opulent
Private and versatile tract of land offering 22 acres in desirable North Putnam County, just 2 minutes from Highway 111. This property features a small pond, approximately 1.5 acres of cleared field ideal for a homesite or mini-farm, and the remaining acreage providing privacy and room to explore. Two entrances off Log Cabin Ln offer convenient access and flexibility. Utilities are available at
The subject property is close proximity to( I-40 exit 286) allowing easy access. consisting of 6+/- acres.. The site offers 50 ft access adjacent Humble Dr. with visibility just off Willow Ave and Interstate Dr The entire parcel is zoned CG (Commerical General) allows wide variety of use. Utilities at road. Already surveyed, cleared, and silt fenced(city specifications) which saves time and money
3BR / 2BA home in a highly desirable area in the heart of Algood. Completely renovated with all new paint, flooring, kitchen, and bathroom updates. Features include: Stainless steel appliances & deep kitchen sink Central heat & air (CH/A) Washer/Dryer hookups Covered back deck Large backyard + storage shed $1750/month + deposit No pets
Residences designed to make the everyday extraordinary.Saxony Apartments is located at 800 East Spring Street, Cookeville, TN, which is approximately 1 mile from the Putnam County Court House, one-half mile from both Avery Trace Middle School and Capshaw Elementary School, and adjacent to Belle Acres Golf Course.At Saxony, we offer amenities and a luxurious community allowing you
Tucked away in a residential neighborhood in Cookeville, Tennessee, Hampton Creek offers a lush, wooded landscape in a quiet community. While Hampton Creek Apartments seem like an oasis in the hills, it is near several area shops, restaurants, businesses, Tennessee Tech and Putnam County Fairgrounds. We're near I-40, halfway between Nashville and Knoxville. At Hampton Creek Apartments, you
Our recently renovated 2BR / 2BA apartments homes are located in central Cookeville. All units feature an open living area, brand-new finishes, and upgraded appliances. Our property management team is on-site from 9 am-5 pm Monday-Friday to assist with any tenant needs. The Bellevue is located in the heart of Cookeville with convenient access to nearby retail shops, grocery stores, restaurants,
The Gables at Veterans is located less than a half mile from I-40, in the heart of Cookeville’s retail, restaurant, and residential district. Our upscale apartment community is walking distance to parks, schools, churches, gyms, shops and any eatery imaginable. Tennessee Tech, the hospital, and historic downtown are a short drive from our location. Our buildings are constructed with a traditional
Discover luxury living at Copper Springs, where we offer exquisite townhomes for rent in Cookeville, TN, within the secure embrace of our gated community. Unparalleled in the Cookeville area, Copper Springs pampers its residents with an array of exceptional amenities, including an exclusive fitness center, a picturesque walking trail offering stunning scenic views, a private community pool for
Willow Park Apartments is a quiet residential community on 10 beautifully maintained acres in Cookeville Tennessee. We are conveniently located near Tennessee Tech University, Cookeville Regional Medical Center, and a variety of restaurants and shopping options. Our amenities include public transportation from our office to TTU and Downtown Cookeville, a 24/7 laundry facility, 24/7 on-call
Now Pre Leasing for Spring and Fall 2026!!! Single Occupancy 1 Bed/1 Bath suites and Studio Apartments, includes ALL UTILITIES+ WiFi. Located less than a block from campus and a short walk to everything TTU has to offer! Location is proximal to everything in Cookeville as well! Each suite has carpet or wood and tile floors, stainless steel appliances, 9 foot ceiling, washer and dryer, and much
1994 Bouton Bend offers comfortable multi-family residential living in Cookeville, Tennessee. This property features a range of amenities designed to enhance your lifestyle. Located conveniently in the heart of Cookeville, residents enjoy easy access to local conveniences and community resources. Whether you're seeking a peaceful neighborhood or a place close to city amenities, 1994 Bouton Bend
Discover the lifestyle upgrade waiting for you at Highbury. This newly built community places you right in the heart of Cookeville with quick access to local hotspots and some of the best views in town. Every detail has been designed to support the way you live, from flexible interior spaces to generous outdoor areas made for unwinding.Property Highlights-New Construction-Premier
This Cookeville apartment building offers practical, comfortable living with private exterior entrances and off-street parking near each unit. The brick exterior, two-story layout, and open surroundings give the property a simple, residential feel.Conveniently located near shopping, dining, Tennessee Tech, and major Cookeville roadways, this property is a great option for residents
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