Central Franklin helps this otherwise fast-growing Nashville suburb keep its small-town appeal. The suburb's historic downtown, which anchors Central Franklin, regularly bustles with pedestrians en route to the many eateries, bars and boutiques that line Main Street. The public square, a common meetup spot, is also home to Civil War monuments and the towering Greek Revival style Williamson County Courthouse. The Factory at Franklin, a former stove-making facility, is now a lively mixed-use space that also features trendy restaurants, theater stages and a gallery displaying both local and international art. “I like Franklin — Williamson County in general — way better than Nashville because it’s very quiet and very quaint,” says Samantha Plake, a leasing agent for the Retreat at Iron Horse apartments. “They have a charming downtown. It’s really quaint, and they’ve filmed Lifetime and Hallmark movies there. It’s very sweet.”
Historic Franklin Theater is home in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
You can walk you dog on the quiet streets of the Downtown Franklin neighborhood.
There are mostly older craftsman-style homes in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
There are large brick classical homes in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
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Downtown Franklin’s bustling shopping and dining scene
City Alderman Ann Petersen says, “Way, way back, you could walk down Main Street and know everybody you saw. Now you go to Main Street and there are just so many people there. Sometimes, I look up and see probably 20 people waiting at one of the traffic lights just to be able to cross the street.” Considered one of the nation's 'great American main streets' and recognized by the national register of historic places, this area's charm is immediately made apparent by its streetscapes. Victorian-era architecture, blocks of red-brick buildings and the former Gray's pharmacy, are just a few of the highlights. Businesses like the Avec Moi antique and clothing store provide unique clothing finds, while restaurants like Biscuit Love offer brunch inside a repurposed Queen Anne home known as the Corn House. Patrons of Culaccino Italian Restaurant can start with an octopus appetizer before moving on to either wood-fired pizza or an Italian entree featuring handcrafted pasta. The Factory at Franklin is known for the Nashville-based and award-winning Edley’s Bar-B-Que and Otaku Ramen. The Franklin Farmers Market is another spot to pick up fresh produce and occurs on Saturdays near the Factory, while Kroger is the nearest grocery store option.
Grays Restaurant in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood is a popular place for locals.
There is plenty of boutique shop along the streets of Franklin.
Locals enjoy BBQ from Edleys BBQ in The Factory Franklin.
Puckett's is a local establishment and is family friendly in Franklin.
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Classic and contemporary styles
Franklin is one of the Nashville metro’s most affluent suburbs and many of its million-dollar homes are found in this part of the city. Most date back to the 19th and early 20th centuries, and styles in downtown commonly include Victorians, Craftsman bungalows and American Foursquares. Many lots here span no more than a third-of-an-acre and include room for stylized landscaping like rounded and square-shaped hedges. In the surrounding blocks, just outside of downtown, prospective buyers will also find ranch-style houses, Colonial Revivals and newly built contemporary Traditionals, some of which honor classic designs like English Tudor architecture. Here, homes can range from the mid $500,000s to upwards of several million dollars depending on size, location and condition. For example, a cozy ranch-style home — less than 3,000 square feet in size — can go for $650,000, while some of the newest and expansive estate-sized homes can cost between $1 million and $2.5 million.
Large Brick Classical Home in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
Row of Historic Homes in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood With Manicured Front Lawns.
Large Blue Colonial Revival Home in the Historic Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
Renovated Colonial Home in the Historic Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
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Fishing, running and playing with the pups in Franklin’s own ‘Central Park’
With many locals nicknaming it “Central Park,” The Park at Harlinsdale Farm is Central Franklin’s main outdoor space. This 200-acre park was once home to Midnight Sun, a championship winning Tennessee Walking Horse. Today, the park draws dog owners, anglers and a mix of walkers and runners who use the park's turf track. The park also continues to honor its equestrian roots by providing a trail for horseback riding. The site, which borders the Harpeth River, also provides a launch site for those who want to go canoeing. The Franklin Greenway winds just past Harlinsdale, connecting bikers to other spots like nearby Bicentennial Park and the Franklin Recreation Complex a few miles north. Pinkerton Park is another green space with a large, wooden fixture called the Tinkerbell Playground.
People Walking Their Dog in the Park in Harlinsdale Farm in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
The Pond and Barn in the Harlinsdale Farm Park in Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
Jim Warren Park Sign in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
A Person Sitting Under a Tree in the Jim Warren Park Near the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
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Celebrating pumpkins and living in A Christmas Carol
Tens of thousands flock to downtown and its historic square for seasonal celebrations throughout the year. Franklin’s Christmas Tree Lighting, in early December, is a regional tradition and features performances by various Nashville recording artists. During the Dickens of a Christmas Festival, many walk the streets decked out in Victorian-era clothing while they enjoy live music, shop and taste craft whiskeys and beers. PumpkinFest, in late October, is another celebration that draws over 100,000 people to downtown Franklin. Those who attend dress up in their Halloween costumes and browse over 100 vendor booths as well as food and drink vendors.
Sidewalk View of Grays Restaurant in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
Interior of the Hester and Koch Shop in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
Aerial View of Shops in the Historic Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
Street View of the Waltons Antiques and Estate Jewelry Store in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
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Growing STEM programs at Johnson Elementary and Freedom Intermediate
Williamson County Schools and the Franklin Special School District provide public education for Central Franklin, and both earn A grades from ratings site Niche. Students here may start at Johnson Elementary School, which receives an A-minus grade. From there, they may then attend Freedom Intermediate and Freedom Middle schools, which both receive A grades from Niche. During the spring of 2024, Johnson Elementary and Freedom Intermediate — which only teaches fifth and sixth graders — each received several thousand dollars to generate interest in STEM projects. Johnson Elementary plans to improve its coding and robotics courses, while Freedom Intermediate will teach its students to use a particular type of laser cutter. Students may then finish their secondary education at Centennial High School, which gets an A from Niche.
Centennial High School enrolls over 1,500 students every year in Franklin.
Aerial view of Freedom Intermediate school.
Freedom Middle School includes an outdoor picnic area.
The front main entrance of Johnson Elementary School.
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Columbia Pike commute to Williamson County neighbors
Although most residents drive, the Franklin Transit system does provide bus service here. Columbia Avenue, which turns into the Columbia Pike, branches out from the downtown and provides a route to neighbors like Thompson’s Station, Spring Hill and Columbia. Interstate 65, a few miles east of downtown Franklin, goes to Nashville about 21 miles to the north. Travelers taking commercial flights go to the Nashville International Airport. The Williamson Medical Center provides hospital care and anchors a campus with institutions like the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital.
Important to know
Central Franklin has an overall CAP Index crime score of 3 out of 10, putting it slightly below the national average of 4.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Central Franklin neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Central Franklin
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
3
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Central Franklin Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Central Franklin, Franklin sell after 49 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Central Franklin, Franklin over the last 12 months is $747,380, down 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
New price and completely move-in ready! Experience the best of downtown living in this stunningly renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom ranch, perfectly positioned just steps from the heart of historic Franklin and Jim Warren Park. Designed with a pragmatic, one-level floor plan, the home is anchored by a true chef’s kitchen equipped with high-end GE Café appliances and custom cabinetry. Both full
Welcome to easy living in the heart of Franklin! This spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bath townhome offers 2,225 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space with an open floor plan that creates a spacious, welcoming feel. Offering a large two-car garage, generous storage throughout, and flexible living spaces, this home is designed to adapt to your lifestyle. The open kitchen provides ample cabinet
Charming 1 BR/1 BA Condominium just 0.9 miles to Historic Downtown Franklin. Enjoy the convenience of walking to Star Bucks, Fainting Goat, or Frothy Monkey for coffee! Nearby shopping & restaurants with easy access to I-65 & I-840. Property has 9ft ceilings, spacious rooms, & built-in office space.Step outside to your own private courtyard for relaxing evenings and entertaining guests.
Price Improvement! Exceptional opportunity to own a turnkey, income-producing duplex in one of Middle Tennessee’s most sought-after markets. Additional details about the planned development behind the property can be found in the Media section. This thoughtfully designed 2023 construction offers the ideal blend of modern craftsmanship, low-maintenance ownership, and strong rental
Timeless Historic charm. Exceptional modern luxury.Just moments from Historic Downtown Franklin, this extraordinary residence masterfully blends the character of a historic home with the sophistication and complete luxury renovation completed in 2021. You will find custom craftsmanship, architectural detail, and modern conveniences come together effortlessly. Designed for both elegant
**MOTIVATED SELLER!! BRING ALL OFFERS!!** New Roof just installed 7/15/2026!! Welcome to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with over 2,500 sq ft, ideally located in the heart of historic downtown Franklin within a charming, boutique neighborhood of just 15 homes. With only one home currently available in the community, this is a rare opportunity to secure exceptional value in a
Great Value w/$400k in pool/decking/hardscape/landscape/lighting! Upon arrival you are greeted by the gated entry & a large 1 acre homesite. This spectacular home is nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac & offers scenic views of nature & rolling hillsides. Imagine sitting on the covered porch overlooking the sparkling salt water pool sipping your favorite beverage as the sun sets. As you enter the home
Historic charm without the historic overlays - see the links on MLS for details of renovation. Imagine the possibilities on the large lot to build income producing property, home office, generational living space, or a pool/pool house. Step into a rare blend of history and modern living in this beautifully restored 1900 home. Thoughtfully renovated in 2020 by Garden Gate Homes, every upgrade was
Completely transformed from top to bottom, this move-in-ready residence blends timeless style with today's modern finishes, offering an exceptional opportunity to own a like-new home just minutes from Historic Downtown Franklin. Perfect to use as a rental as this townhome is being sold fully furnished. Every inch of the home has been thoughtfully renovated with quality craftsmanship and
*Preferred Lender 20 Year land loan amortization for 15 years! AThe Cliffs of Garrison Creek is an exclusive community nestled in gently rolling hills and the unparalleled beauty of Leipers Fork! Enjoy private acres overlooking this amazing community located only minutes to downtown Leipers Fork, historic downtown Franklin, & Southall Farm & Inn. This property provides unsurpassed tranquility.
OPEN HOUSE SUN 7/26 2pm-4pm. Beautifully updated and full of charm, this exceptional home is located just a five-minute walk from historic downtown Franklin. Thoughtful renovations throughout include a Viking range and oven, stunning primary bath, and updated guest bath. Custom built-ins enhance the inviting living space, while the flexible third bedroom offers a separate area perfect for a home
This estate solves what almost no home in Williamson County can: covered storage for 8–10 vehicles without a single lift — far more with lifts installed. Between the main home's 4-car garage and the carriage house's 1,400 sq ft pull-through garage with 14-ft doors (tour bus or trailer ready), the collection is covered — and so is the whole family. Two complete residences on nearly 4.5 private
+/- 2,277 SF building + a 473 SF garage. Zoned Central Commercial, which allows for a wide variety of uses including residential. Great W. Main location with significant frontage. +/- 0.5 miles from downtown Franklin, and award winning Main Street. Near the Margin District, a new mixed-use development near downtown Franklin's Five Points area that is under construction. Convenient access to
Rare Downtown Franklin Compound | Established STRP Business | Two-Home Estate -Over 6,000 Sq. Ft. of living space, on a quiet street, set on an oversized double lot only a short distance away from 5 points. European-inspired and architecturally refined, the primary home features white oak flooring, Taj Mahal quartzite and soapstone surfaces, designer lighting, and custom tile throughout. 5
Lot Price $974,999--A rare second-chance opportunity to create a statement estate in one of Leipers Fork’s most private and sought-after enclaves. Pre-sale opportunity*Imagine this exquisite 5,050-square-foot home—to be built by Partners in Building on your ideal acreage in the heart of Leipers Fork. A grand two-story sanctuary, it offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and timeless
The Everly at Historic Franklin offers elegant living in the heart of prestigious Franklin, just steps from vibrant Downtown. Choose from spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments and townhomes featuring wood-style plank floors, granite countertops, and chef-inspired kitchens, perfectly blending sophistication and comfort.Enjoy resort-style amenities, including a sparkling pool
Nestled inside Historic Downtown Franklin along the Harpeth River, Harpeth Square is the perfect blend of sophistication and style. Harpeth Square residents will enjoy additional unique amenities from the Harpeth Hotel and Harpeth Retail. Pick up fresh ingredients for dinner from Franklin Bake House and Olivia Olive Oil, treat yourself to a massage at The Now Massage, or enjoy a nice night in
The Madison Franklin is a community of recently renovated apartments in Franklin, TN. Near Franklin's historic downtown, you'll find our homes nestled in a chic and desirable location. Here, laid-back freelancers and other professionals meet in the business center, while the fitness center is the go-to place to stay in shape. Our stunning swimming pool comes with an adjacent sundeck, outfitted
Our name is a tribute to the majestic Harpeth River, located just seconds from your door. The lifestyle we offer is as peaceful and refreshing as anything in nature. Our architecture is clean, bright, and modern. Our interiors and common areas are crisp, contemporary, and brimming with amenities to serve you. Best of all, we're just minutes from Nashville in an ideal location near Downtown
LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST IN FRANKLIN, TNExperience a new quality lifestyle that will never cease to gratify at The Whitney Franklin. Located in Franklin, Tennessee, our beautiful apartment community provides a haven within the city. Nearby access to US-431 presents limitless opportunities to enjoy your favorite destinations. Choose from an array of dining, shopping, and entertainment
Franklin Manor is a quiet and convenient place to call home with large spacious 1 & 2 bedrooms.Just minutes from downtown Franklin.Please call us for more details.
This thoughtfully designed three-bedroom townhouse blends traditional charm with Craftsman details in a well-maintained setting at 150 Generals Retreat Place. Spanning 2,040 square feet, it offers a spacious, open layout that seamlessly connects the living area with a kitchen showcasing medium wood cabinets, dark granite counters, and a breakfast bar accented by hanging lights. Wood floors
Now offering 20-month leases. Sign today and lock in today’s low rate for the next 20 months! Offer valid for new applicants who sign a 20-month lease by July 31st, 2026. Base rent will remain at the 12-month lease rate for the duration of the 20-month term. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. This property is
Coming soon - this home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 2,662 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living, supported by a team that puts residents first. As a
Renovated 2 bedroom brick rancher with flex room (3rd bedroom / office / music room) * Multi living areas (formal gathering room plus den) * New laminate * Fully equipped kitchen w/microwave * Owners will consider a pet less than 20 lbs. full grown weight depending on number and breed with $250 non refundable pet fee per approved pet * No cats * Lawncare included in lease * Application fee $65
Randa DawsonCentury 21 Premier
$4,000 per month
Beautifully furnished short-term rental in Historic Downtown Franklin!
Furnished short term or long term rental in Historic Downtown Franklin! Looking for a flexible month-to-month lease? You’ve found it. This stunning home has been completely remodeled to the studs and truly looks like it came straight out of a magazine. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed with high-end finishes including rich hardwood floors, quartz countertops, stainless steel premium
This is not your typical Laurelwood townhome! This charming and distinctive 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offers two stories of comfortable living in an unbeatable Franklin location. Situated just one mile from historic Downtown Franklin and directly across from Jim Warren Park, you’ll enjoy easy access to shopping, dining, recreation, and community events. Inside, the home features a functional
Sean FitzgeraldGemstone Solutions Property Management and Realty
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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