Hidden amongst a canopy of greenery just 10 miles away on the outskirts of Nashville, Forest Hills is an independent city that draws nature lovers and privacy seekers. “In Forest Hills, rolling hills and large, private lots are the status quo,” says Richard Courtney, broker at Fridrich & Clark Realty, LLC, who has over 45 years of experience in the real estate industry. Home to one of Nashville’s first suburbs, the area has been described as a community of country estates. The city of Forest Hills was owned by the Compton and Scrugg families during the 19th century, whose beautiful and historic homes still stand in Forest Hills today. Unsurprisingly, those looking for beautiful homes, spacious yards and secluded streets make their way to Forest Hills.
Multimillion-dollar homes on over an acre
Forest Hills’ architectural styles are diverse, ranging from modern to traditional. Luxurious country estates line the neighborhood’s heavily wooded streets, along with updated, midcentury ranch-style homes. “New and custom builds are cropping up, often replacing what were once small ranch homes,” Courtney says. The median sales price for a single-family home hovers around $2,287,500, boasting large private lawns, with median lot sizes around 1.25 acres. A classic colonial can go for $870,000, while a modest Split-Level on almost 3 acres can go for $1.2 million. Homebuyers can score anywhere from a 5,000-square-foot traditional build to a historic 1783 log cabin in the $2 million range. Multimillion-dollar custom homes are standard, reaching as high as $32 million for 20,000 square foot estate spanning over 50 acres.
Forest Hills is a growing neighborhood with new residential developments.
Well-manicured lawns are a frequent sight in Forest Hills.
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B-rated schools in Forest Hills
Although Forest Hills is an independent city, it is still part of the Metro Nashville Public Schools district. Students in the area may attend Percy Priest or Julia Green Elementary School, both scoring B-plus ratings on Niche. Students then move on to John Trotwood Moore Middle School, achieving a B-rating, and Hillsboro Comprehensive High School, scoring a B. Hillsboro High claims distinction as an International Baccalaureate World School and offering career academies in health and science and international business.
Hillsboro High School provides a public education to students in the Green Hills neighborhood.
Percy Priest Elementary School is located in Forrest Hills.
John Trotwood Moore Middle School opened in September 1969.
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Recreation at Richland Country Club
Locals can head to Bison Meadow, a 2 acre prairie with rare wildflowers and natural grasses, for a breath of fresh air or head out along the John C. Lovell Bikeway, which leads to Percy Priest Park, a children’s playground with walking trails. Edwin and Percy Warner Parks are just west of Forest Hills, and Radnor Lake State Park is east of the neighborhood. Both have well-kept hiking trails, special events and visitor centers. The 170-acre Richland Country Club in Forest Hills offers a beautiful golf course on the former Battle of Nashville site. Forest Hills residents often gather at Richland Country Club or Sequoia Swim & Tennis Club for recreation, community events and private parties.
People walking on the wooded trails of Percy Warner Park in the Harpeth Valley Park Neighborhood.
Residents can enjoy many types of trees and plants at Bison Meadow Park in Forest Hills.
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Dining out in neighboring Green Hills
While Forest Hills is mainly residential, neighboring Green Hills is full of fun local restaurants, boutiques, shops, and The Mall at Green Hills. Residents flock to Santo for fresh Mediterranean eats, while Doughbird is known for its house-made pizza and rotisserie chicken. Greenhouse Bar offers a unique ambiance for cocktails before heading to Char Restaurant for an intimate date night. The Bluebird Café, showcasing Nashville’s best and upcoming songwriters, and the Nashville Public Library are also in Green Hills. Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and Kroger are clustered around the mall, while The Hill Center Brentwood offers major retailer chains like Nordstrom Rack and REI nearby.
The Mall at Green Hills is heavily visited by residents in Forest Hills.
Residents in Forest Hills can visit Bluebird Cafe for their photo needs.
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Live music at Belle Meade Winery
Nearby attractions include the Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory off Granny White Pike, which hosts concerts, tours and astronomy talks, and the nearby Belle Meade Mansion and Winery. Besides tours, the mansion holds wine and bourbon tastings throughout the year and features live performances in their wine garden every weekend throughout spring and summer. Locals can always head to Nashville proper for annual festivals and events, like the Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival and the Jefferson Street Jazz and Blues Festival.
Commutes along Hillsboro Pike
Commuting to work in Nashville or any part of Middle Tennessee is a breeze from Forest Hills, a car-dependent city 10 miles from downtown. US Route 431, also known as Hillsboro Pike, runs straight through the community, while US Route 254, or Old Hickory Boulevard, is nearby. Interstate 65 is also easily accessible from the neighborhood. Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital West is the nearest hospital, while Nashville International Airport is about 12 miles away.
Written By
John Lowery
Photography Contributed By
Andrew Nelson
Video By
Scott Wiggins
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Erin Simpson,
an experienced agent in this area.
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This remarkable Forest Hills estate blends timeless architecture with modern amenities on two private acres, offering a level of craftsmanship and presence that stands apart from much of today’s new construction. Designed for both elegance and livability, the home features six bedrooms, five full baths, and a powder bath with generous spaces ideal for refined entertaining and everyday comfort.
This stunning French Country–inspired estate blends timeless elegance with modern luxury. Situated on 1.2 flat acres, the home features 11-foot ceilings on the main level and 9-foot ceilings upstairs, creating a spacious and airy feel throughout.Designed for both everyday living and grand entertaining, the residence offers a three-car garage with a custom porte-cochère, and a heated gunite
Welcome to this exceptional custom home, built in 2016 and offering just under 7,300 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. Nestled in the highly coveted Tyne Meade area, this home features 5 spacious bedrooms and 5.5 luxurious baths. The expansive floor plan includes multiple upstairs bonus rooms—perfect for a home office, media room, fitness studio, or playroom—offering flexibility
Lease/purchase option* Enjoy your slice of Green Hills serenity on your 1.3 acres* 10' ceilings* Solid 8' doors* Impressive, vaulted entry foyer* Walnut wood floors* Cypress ceiling beams* Large open Great Room* Center island kitchen features New SubZero refrigerator(2023), Thermador dishwasher, Wolf 5-eye gas cooktop, Dacor double ovens, Dacor warming drawer + GE Profile microwave & Scotsman ice
Positioned atop 1.64 acres in one of Nashville’s most exclusive hilltop enclaves, this striking modern estate blends architectural distinction with sweeping skyline views. Spanning 6,222 square feet, the residence was honored as a 2022 Home of Distinction and showcases clean lines, curated finishes, and an effortless indoor-outdoor flow. Inside, five spacious bedrooms and five-and-a-half baths
You will be impressed! Over 2 Acres in Forest Hills* Impeccably maintained* 10' ceilings* Beautiful Chef worthy granite large center island kitchen~ Frigidaire Professional column refrigerator & freezer, GE Profile microwave, GE Monogram appliances include: double ovens w/convection, 6-eye gas cooktop w/griddle & dishwasher* 2 story Great room w/ FP & built-in bookcases* 2 main level bedrooms
This remarkable Forest Hills estate blends timeless architecture with modern amenities on two private acres, offering a level of craftsmanship and presence that stands apart from much of today’s new construction. Designed for both elegance and livability, the home features six bedrooms, five full baths, and a powder bath with generous spaces ideal for refined entertaining and everyday comfort.
Beautifully appointed* Custom built by Castle Homes Builders w/tasteful, exquisite finishes* No detail has been overlooked* Over 1 Acre with views of sought-after Forest Hills* Expansive kitchen filled with natural light from its wall of windows* Thermador appliances include double oven, 6-eye gas cooktop w/griddle+grill, drawer microwave & furniture paneled refrigerator & freezer* 2 pantries*
Nestled within an exclusive gated community between Forest Hills and the heart of Brentwood, this incredible estate offers privacy, space, and timeless appeal. Set on 3.4 picturesque acres, the five-bedroom home is thoughtfully designed for both everyday comfort and elegant entertaining. Highlights include a chef's kitchen, multiple inviting living areas, and a serene main-level primary suite.
Tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in the prestigious Forest Hills area, this completely re-imagined 1968 ranch delivers the rare combination of true one-level living, modern luxury, and exceptional privacy—all just minutes from Green Hills, Belle Meade, and downtown Nashville. Spanning 3,888 square feet, the home has been fully renovated from the studs out, offering the peace of mind
This stunning French Country–inspired estate blends timeless elegance with modern luxury. Situated on 1.2 flat acres, the home features 11-foot ceilings on the main level and 9-foot ceilings upstairs, creating a spacious and airy feel throughout.Designed for both everyday living and grand entertaining, the residence offers a three-car garage with a custom porte-cochère, and a heated gunite
PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT SELLER, LISTING AGREEMENT IN PLACE. Welcome to 5543 Stanford Drive, a stunning home in the tranquil hills of Forest Hills, Nashville. Set on a private 1.63-acre lot, this custom-built 6,540 sq ft residence offers 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, and versatile spaces—including a potential recording studio and room for an elevator, if needed. The main level features a primary suite
To Be Built, stunning 6,000 sq ft home in Otter Creek. Buyer is able to work with the builder to customize and work through the build process on this amazing opportunity.
Beautiful European Villa in lovely gated Cambridge Downs development. Incredible views/privacy on 2 acres! Wonderful floor plan with primary suite & other BR suite on main level. Family rm w/rough-hewn cedar beams/soaring ceiling & open to eating area & a fabulous large kitchen! Wine room convenient for entertaining on main level, screened porch with fireplace & spectacular pool/hot tub, rock
Enjoy your slice of Green Hills serenity on your 1.3 acres* 10' ceilings* Solid 8' doors* Impressive, vaulted entry foyer* Walnut wood floors* Cypress ceiling beams* Large open Great Room* Center island kitchen features New SubZero refrigerator(2023), Thermador dishwasher, Wolf 5-eye gas cooktop, Dacor double ovens, Dacor warming drawer + GE Profile microwave & Scotsman ice maker* Main level
Seize the unique opportunity to rent a cherished piece of Forest Hills on the prestigious Hillsboro Road. Nestled on a sprawling 5-acre estate surrounded by a lush forest, this elegant 2-story Colonial brick home promises privacy and tranquility. The natural setting comes alive with abundant wildlife, providing a serene backdrop to everyday life.The residence boasts a versatile
Beautiful ranch home in a great location with easy access to Belle Meade/West Nashville, Green Hills as well as Maryland farms in Brentwood. The home features hardwood throughout the main part of the home with with a stepdown into the Recreation room and and a half bath with a washer and dryer. 2 tiled bathrooms upstairs with one of them being in the Owners Suite. There is plenty of exterior
Great opportunity to live in one of Nashville's most highly desirable neighborhoods. Beautiful 3 bed 3 bath single family home. Fully fenced in back yard, two car garage and hardwoods throughout. Pets on case-by-case basis wtih non refundable pet fee.
Will ClaytonArtisan Property Management Services, LLC
Stately, upscale and light filled home in prestigious Burton Hills! Enjoy beautiful hardwoods in downstairs living areas, vaulted ceilings, plantation shutters, granite counters, sub zero refrigerator, large great room with built in bookcases and wall of windows. Recent updates include new stove, dishwasher, microwave, tile in upstairs Hollywood bath, light fixtures, & remodeled half bath.
Entertainer's Dream and ultimate Luxury living in the exclusive community of Richland Woods. Minutes to Brentwood, Green Hills, 12 South. Wonderful open floorpan with incredible space to host. Exquisite bedroom suites and opulent bathrooms. Grand outdoor living. Pets are allowed on a case by case basis. Available FURNISHED upon request.
Quiet, winding backroads and leafy seclusion give Otter Creek a rural atmosphere. And those seeking the pulse of Music City take advantage of the 10-mile cruise that leads right into the heart of Broadway. Sprawling estates with impressive architecture sit atop hills, and renovated ranch homes are settled far enough apart to enjoy the yard space but close enough to nod to the neighbor. Situated in Davidson County, this Forest Hills suburb offers residents access to both nature and Nashville and is ranked the No. 2 best place to raise a family, according to Niche. “People love this area because its centrally located by the natural beauty of Radnor Lake, between plenty of shopping and eateries in Green Hills and Brentwood,” says Rebecca Norris DiNapoli, a Realtor at Compass with more than 30 years of experience in both the music industry and real estate in Nashville.
Homes in Otter Creek flow with the green hills of the Tennessee terrain, where some areas are especially steep and dense with trees. Properties have been well-constructed to handle the environment, as huge stone estates and towering colonial homes are set upon several acres on the hillsides. “Eddy Arnold owns land here, where he hired only developers that would maintain the land’s natural aesthetic. They cut down very few trees, keeping it nature-friendly and very desirable—developers and builders are following suit because they love how beautiful this area is,” says DiNapoli. Classic mid-century brick ranch homes, vintage cottages and colonials that range in size from 2,000 to about 3,000 square feet are rarely found for under $1 million. Contemporary homes with traditional architecture, Craftsman or Farmhouse influences typically range between 4,000 and 8,000 square feet. These estates, many shaded by maple and oak trees with picket fences outlining the property, sell between $1.5 million to upwards of $10 million.
Davidson County is recognized as one of the best places to live in Tennessee with the best school districts in the Metro Nashville area. Younger students living in Otter Creek can begin with a 14-1 student-teacher ratio at Percy Priest Elementary School, which Niche grades a B-plus and ranks as the No. 3 best elementary school in the county. As they progress, learners can attend J.T. Moore Middle School, which receives a B Niche grade. Hillsboro High School, which Niche also grades a B and ranks as the No. 5 best magnet high school in Nashville, serves the area’s older students. Parents might opt to send their children to a nearby private school: Brentwood Academy, Franklin Road Academy, Currey Ingram Academy and St. Paul Christian Academy are all close by.
On the east side of Otter Creek, locals take in the scenic views at Radnor Lake State Park. With 1,400 acres of wooded trails around Radnor Lake, this park offers opportunities to exercise while viewing wildlife. "There are some trails you can’t even run on because they don’t want you to scare the owls or otters,” DiNapoli adds. In the southern part of town, the self-guided trails at Deerwood Arboretum educate on more than 60 species of trees, birds and other local wildlife.
A 5-mile drive east along Old Hickory Boulevard leads to a popular retail section in Brentwood with a variety of restaurants, shops and grocers. "Mere Bulles is a longstanding steakhouse, and people love margaritas and Tex-Mex at Uncle Julio’s," says Mandy Smith, a Nashville native on DiNapoli’s team. Locals can mark items off their grocery lists at Publix or Fresh Market. Another 5-mile jaunt north along Hillsboro Pike leads to The Mall at Green Hills, where there are several medical suites and more grocery options at Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s. “Across from Trader Joe’s, Santo’s serves fresh Mediterranean cuisine,” Smith adds.
Old Hickory Boulevard and Hillsboro Pike are the main thoroughfares in and out of Otter Creek, the latter leading straight into downtown Nashville. A bit further east, residents can hop onto Interstate 65 for further travel destinations.
The Richland Country Club is on Otter Creek’s east side. Open since 1901, this grandeur clubhouse sits on 170 acres of Tennessee landscape, complete with a premium golf course. Members also enjoy community events, an outdoor swimming pool and top-notch dining experiences.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Forest Hills Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
4,466
Median Age
49
Population under 18
23.6%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
25.1%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$222,847
Significantly above the national average
$79,601
Average Household Income
$219,008
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
98.1%
College Graduates
78.2%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
35.7%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
62.6%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
51''
Average Winter Low Temperature
30°F
Average Summer High Temperature
91°F
Annual Snowfall
14''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®®
8/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®®
3/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
