Lakefront Nashville suburb and long-time home to music stars
Nashville famously goes by the moniker 'Music City' due to its reputation as both a launchpad and home to many recording artists. But it’s the city of Hendersonville that many of these stars now call home. “It’s been known for many years as the home of our country music stars because of our proximity to Nashville. It’s a town full of history as far as music history goes,” says Hendersonville resident and Alderman, Mark Burgdorf.
Here, the former Johnny Cash and June Carter-Cash estate is a local landmark located along Old Hickory Lake. Pop superstar Taylor Swift lived here as a teen — briefly attending Hendersonville High School — while making her breakthrough into the Nashville music scene. And for years, it was not uncommon for locals to bump into legends like Roy Orbison or Conway Twitty while out running errands. “You’d see them in the grocery stores, and you could sit there and talk to them. They’ll tell you what’s going on and ask how you were doing,” says Alderman, Mark Skidmore. “They were always approachable, but that’s the way Hendersonville is. Everybody’s like that here, and it’s just always been that way.”
Music stars aside, Hendersonville is also known for its location along Old Hickory Lake, a reservoir separated from the Cumberland River by the Old Hickory Lock and Dam. A variety of marinas, private docks and public ramps keep boat-enthusiasts happy and out on the water — and many enjoy launching their boats on the lake or spending warm weekend afternoons cruising the river. In fact, Hendersonville’s motto is “The City by the Lake.” "It’s in our name, it’s in our logo, it’s what we do,” Burgdorf says.
Hendersonville has a population of over 60,000 people since 2023.
Hendersonville is known as City by the Lake in Tennessee.
Johnny Cash's old home was once on Old Hickory Lake in Hendersonville.
Locals can launch their boats at Sanders Ferry boat ramp in Hendersonville.
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From ramblers to waterfront Colonials
About half of Hendersonville falls into the Walton Ferry and Indian Lake peninsulas, where homes with private docks line the shorelines. The city’s housing styles range from blocks of 1960s and 1970s ramblers situated on half-acre lots to dense subdivisions filled with contemporary Traditionals and Colonial Revivals built between the '90s and today. The city also has clusters of new townhouses with classic design touches like exposed half-timber framing.
Housing costs here continue to rise, but Hendersonville’s market is seen as more affordable when compared to some of the neighboring affluent Nashville suburbs. “We are not priced out of reach for many people,” Burgdorf says. He recalls making the choice between Nashville and Hendersonville when he moved to the city in 1997, ultimately going with the latter and opting for the less expensive 1960s ranch-style house on a 1.5-acre lot. “All those things made it a more ideal location for us to move with a young family,” he says, referring to both the lot size and the price point.
Although a few properties in Hendersonville can surpass the million-dollar mark, most single-family homes here cost between $400,000 and $900,000, and townhouses cost between $250,000 and $400,000. Hendersonville's median price is $520,000, a 4% increase year over year. In contrast, Nashville suburbs like Brentwood and Oak Hill have median prices of $1.3 million and $1.5 million, respectively.
Colonial Revival home styles on the lake are typically more expensive in Hendersonville.
Hendersonville has a few townhome communities that are popping up.
Many residents in Hendersonville have private boat docks on the lake.
The Ramber style of home is one of the most popular in Hendersonville.
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Cruising on Old Hickory Lake
Old Hickory Lake is the city’s primary attraction for outdoor activities. During the summer, its waters teem with crafts ranging from jet skis to pontoons and sports boats. Residents can also travel by boat. “You can get all the way to Nashville along the Cumberland River. I’ve done it several times over the years,” Skidmore says.
Drakes Creek Park is another community green space and features a creek that empties into the nearby lake. Local waterfowl are a common sight out on the lake, or residents may cross paths with them while walking along the Hendersonville Greenway. The park’s athletic complex also includes amenities like softball and baseball diamonds and soccer fields.
Other notable outdoor spots include Sanders Ferry Park and the Walton Ferry Arboretum.
Boat lovers can enjoy the lake life in Hendersonville.
Sanders Ferry Park has beautiful bird watching in Hendersonville.
Fisherman can visit Rockland Recreation Area to catch their dinner in Hendersonville.
Drakes Creek is a great place to enjoy a walk with your dog.
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The Streets of Indian Lake and waterfront dining
Hendersonville offers ample shopping and dining options. “No matter where you live, you’ll have the convenience of shopping,” says Laura Strong, a Realtor with Creekside Homes, who’s lived in Hendersonville for over two decades. The Streets of Indian Lake is an open-air mall and the city’s flagship shopping destination. The center is home to brand-name apparel stores, boutiques, chain restaurants, fitness studios and a Regal Cinemas movie theater. The site also features an outdoor square complete with a lawn, water fountain and a stage for live music. The Streets of Indian Lake also hosts the Hendersonville Farmers & Artisan Market, which occurs every Saturday from May through September. Several big box chains offer plenty of grocery and retail options throughout the area.
Lakefront dining is popular, and the aptly named restaurants The Rudder and Moby Dicky’s are just a few of the establishments located lakeside. Both restaurants serve a blend of seafood and American comfort meals. “My wife and I would take our jet skis from the boat ramp over to the boat ramp in Hendersonville to eat dinner at one of the local restaurants,” says Jason Crosslin, a broker with Keller Williams Realty, who lives across the river in Mt. Juliet. “If you cross the lake, it’s a 10-minute ride on the boat. If you drive, it’s a 40-minute drive to Hendersonville because you have to drive into Nashville and go around the lake and back into Hendersonville.”
Locals love to visit Moby Dicky's seafood restaurant for dinner in Hendersonville.
Take in the views of Old Hickory Lake at The Rudder in Hendersonville.
Regal Cinemas 16 has an IMAX theater in Hendersonville.
The Streets at Indian Lake Village has many options for shopping in Hendersonville.
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Freedom Festival at Drakes Creek Park
When not spending time out on the lake, residents here can enjoy a series of community celebrations throughout the year. During the summer, many flock to Drakes Creek Park with blankets and lawn chairs in tow to enjoy the Freedom Festival held on July 3. Considered the largest Independence Day celebration in all of Sumner County, in addition to the fireworks display, the celebration features live music and food trucks. In the winter, events like the Deck the Hulls Boat Parade in early December takes place at Mallard Pointe Park. Other popular events include the Christmas and Veterans Day parades.
Other attractions here include the former Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash estate. Although the property itself is closed to the public—and under new ownership—many still choose to drive out to the site for a glimpse of history or to see a nearby orchard that once belonged to Orbison.
The Hendersonville Performing Arts Company is a nonprofit community theater offering acting and improv classes for elementary school students.
Drakes Creek calls Hendersonville Home.
The Johnny Cash house has a new owner building a house on Old Hickory Lake.
The Hendersonville Performing Arts Company hosts local shows throughout the year.
Drakes Creek Park has large green spaces for festivals and sports in Hendersonville.
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Highly rated public schools, private faith-based options and Union University campus
Sumner County Schools serve Hendersonville and earn an A-minus rating on Niche. The district boasts high ratings in academics, sports, college prep and administration and the majority of the city's 20 public schools receive at least an A-minus grade from Niche. Private schools include the faith-based Hendersonville Christian Academy and Pope Saint John Paul II Preparatory School, which earn grades of B-minus and A, respectively, from Niche.
Hendersonville is also home to one of Union University’s three Tennessee campuses. The university is a private Baptist institution based in Jackson, Tennessee. “Our residents can get an education from pre-K through college without ever leaving,” says Hendersonville mayor Jamie Clary, a 50-year city resident.
Hub of health care and education
Agriculture made Hendersonville’s early economy, but today, the city is now a small hub for education, health care and industrial work. Although they’re based in neighboring Gallatin, Sumner County’s government and school district are the largest employers in this part of the Nashville metro area. The two entities employ roughly 4,700 people; while other major employers like Xtend Healthcare and the TriStar Hendersonville Medical Center, employ about 1,100 and 700 people, respectively. TriStar is the city’s only hospital.
These growing industries have also contributed to the city's population growth. The 2020 census reports Hendersonville with a population of nearly 61,750, up 20% from their 2010 count. A 2022 estimate shows the city’s population has increased by another 2%. “We’re a growing community of young professionals from all backgrounds,” Clary says. “One of my initiatives as mayor is to continue bringing more professional jobs to the city so that people can spend more time with their families and less time commuting.”
Hendersonville doesn’t have a public transit system, so commuters usually drive or use rideshare services. Some of the city’s greenways also make biking a common transportation option. Hendersonville is located about 17 miles north of downtown Nashville. Vietnam Veterans Boulevard connects to Interstate 65, which then runs directly into the heart of Music City. Interstate 65 is also part of the route to the Nashville International Airport.
Important to know
The FBI’s 2022 stats show Hendersonville had a violent crime rate of around 14 incidents per 10,000 people, which is lower than both the state and national averages. The city’s reported property crime rate of 84 incidents per 10,000 was also less than half of the state and country averages.
Hendersonville is a part of Middle Tennessee, which weather experts confirm has four true seasons. The region has mild winters and warm, humid summers. Spring and late fall are the times for extreme weather events like straight-line winds and tornadoes. One of these events occurred in December of 2023 when a series of tornadoes ripped through Middle Tennessee. While none of the seven deaths caused by the tornadoes occurred in Hendersonville, one of the twisters extensively damaged the city’s recreation areas and businesses. Those seven tornadoes were among the 21 that either started or crossed into the region in 2023.
Written By
Yann Ranaivo
Photography Contributed By
Chase Brock
Video By
Charlie Lingner
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jennifer Cummings,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Hendersonville, TN sell after 41 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Hendersonville, TN over the last 12 months is $539,900, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this beautifully designed new construction townhouse in Nearwater Place, conveniently located in Hendersonville just off the 386 bypass for an easy commute to downtown Nashville. This thoughtfully crafted home features 2 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, with both bedrooms offering private ensuite baths and walk-in closets—ideal for comfort and privacy. The open-concept floor plan is enhanced by
Welcome to easy, elevated living in the sought-after Durham Farms! This beautifully maintained villa at 388 Gingerwood Lane offers the perfect blend of style and low-maintenance convenience. Backing to a peaceful tree line for added privacy, this home features an open-concept layout with luxury vinyl plank flooring and a stunning kitchen designed for entertaining complete with a massive quartz
Welcome to this beautifully designed new construction townhouse in Nearwater Place, conveniently located in Hendersonville just off the 386 bypass for an easy commute to downtown Nashville. This thoughtfully crafted home features 2 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, with both bedrooms offering private ensuite baths and walk-in closets—ideal for comfort and privacy. The open-concept floor plan is enhanced by
Welcome to this beautifully designed new construction townhouse in Nearwater Place, conveniently located in Hendersonville just off the 386 bypass for an easy commute to downtown Nashville. This thoughtfully crafted home features 2 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, with both bedrooms offering private ensuite baths and walk-in closets—ideal for comfort and privacy. The open-concept floor plan is enhanced by
Thoughtful updates make this home truly move-in ready, including: • Full crawlspace encapsulation with transferable lifetime warranty • New kitchen appliances & new hot water heater • 3-year-old roof and 3-year-old pool liner • 2-year-old carpet (professionally cleaned) • Fresh paint, new lighting, and full professional cleaning • Interior & exterior window cleaning scheduled this week. Imagine
Set on 28+ scenic acres in Hendersonville, this private estate offers something today’s buyers are actively seeking... space, privacy, and a home designed for how people truly live. This custom Cape Cod-style home stands apart from the typical open-concept trend, offering thoughtfully defined spaces that create comfort, function, and flexibility. Whether working from home, hosting gatherings, or
Preferred lender offering buyers 2% of loan toward lowering 30-year fixed interest. OUTDOOR LOVERS DREAM!! Walk to Old Hickory Lake from your backyard, this fully renovated ranch style home offers modern updates, flexible living space, and easy access to one of the area’s best outdoor recreation spots. Just around the corner you will find the public boat ramp, dock, and shoreline access perfect
Welcome to easy, elevated living in the sought-after Durham Farms! This beautifully maintained villa at 388 Gingerwood Lane offers the perfect blend of style and low-maintenance convenience. Backing to a peaceful tree line for added privacy, this home features an open-concept layout with luxury vinyl plank flooring and a stunning kitchen designed for entertaining complete with a massive quartz
Cozy condo in Sterling Cove! Great Location and Great Condition... (be sure to check out the virtual walk through below in "documents & links") Custom Low Maintenance Tile Floor Downstairs and Newer LVP Upstairs. New water heater. Stainless kitchen appliances with eat-in dining area, laundry room, BIG bedrooms with full bathrooms, and a large living room with half bath! A large, detached 2 Car
A spacious and well maintained five-bedroom home located in the desirable Meadows of Indian Lake, a thoughtfully planned community on the Indian Lake Peninsula. This home offers a rare combination of functionality, craftsmanship, and location.Key Features:• Main-level primary suite for privacy and convenience• Four spacious bedrooms and two full baths upstairs• Bonus room with
Welcome to the 143 Compton St., Smart Home, in the highly desirable Hunt Club, nestled in beautiful Sumner County. Enjoy a neighborhood pool & playground, nature trails, quick access to shopping, dining, award-winning schools, & Old Hickory Lake. All just a short drive to downtown Nashville. In a market full of similar homes, this one stands apart! This one-owner, non-smoking, no-pet home offers
Private hilltop estate on 6.28 acres in Sumner County - Beech Schools, in-ground pool, and no HOA. Brick/vinyl construction set on TN hilltop with panoramic views from a wraparound front porch. Open pasture in front, mature trees surrounding the home on three sides, and resident deer and wild turkey that regularly cross the property - true privacy minutes from the shops, dining and entertainment
Stunning home with an open-concept design perfect for entertaining! The eat-in kitchen features quartz countertops, a newer cooktop, and ample pantry space. The primary suite offers balcony access, dual vanities, modern tile, and a spacious walk-in closet. Rear-entry two-car garage via alley access. Enjoy community sidewalks connecting to shops, restaurants, the library, movie theater, and
MOTIVATED SELLERS offering buyer incentives, including $3,000 toward Buyer closing costs. Terms & conditions apply. Situated on Premium lot with no rear neighbors, this beautifully designed home located in sought-after Ashcrest at Indian Lake offers the blend of stylish finishes, everyday convenience and walkability to nature trails and shopping/conveniences. The covered front porch and private
Stunning home in desirable Wynbrooke subdivision. Finished basement with bed, full bath and kitchenette...perfect for teens or in laws who need no step access! Primary bed on main floor with ensuite bath, 3 bedrooms upstairs EACH with their own full bath!!! New carpet upstairs, fresh paint throughout, new Quartz counter tops in kitchen, LOADS of cabinet space in kitchen! Kitchen also boasts a
This Super Clean Home features 3 Bedrooms 2.5 Baths with New Hand-scraped Hardwood Floors, Large Bonus Room over 2 Car Garage, SS Appliance. New carpet, deck and fence all installed in 2024! Pets are case by case pending owner approval.
The Point at Waterford Crossing is a beautiful, pet-friendly community of luxury apartment homes in Hendersonville, TN, tucked in a pristine setting that offers the serenity of living in the country and the excitement of nearby Nashville. Whether you like fishing, boating, shopping, or the arts, The Point at Waterford Crossing is the address you'll love to come home to. Our charming neighborhood
Welcome to this spacious 4 bedroom and 2.5 bath home in a fantastic location just minutes from the heart of Hendersonville. Enjoy easy access to shopping, dining, and local conveniences while living in a generously sized home designed for comfort and functionality. The interior has been refreshed with ALL NEW carpet and fresh paint throughout, creating a bright, move-in-ready feel. Step outside
Welcome to Vetra Drakes Creek Apartments, where fun and comfort collide in the heart of Hendersonville, Tennessee! Get ready to experience a vibrant lifestyle in our lively community designed with your enjoyment in mind.At Vetra at Drakes Creek, we offer stylish and spacious apartments that will make you feel right at home. Our resort-style amenities include a sparkling swimming pool
Move-in Ready | Three Bed | Two Bath | Primary Bedroom on Main | New Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring and Paint throughout in May 2024 | Stainless Steel Appliances | Deck | Private Fenced Back Yard | Two Parking Spaces | Washer/Dryer Connections | Large Walk-in Storage Area | NON SMOKERS ONLY | OWNER PAYS THE MONTHLY HOA FEE | This is a quiet desirable community and neighborhood just two to three
TOUR YOUR WAY! We have a tour to fit your needs- virtual, self-guided, or agent-guided. MAA Indian Lake outside of Nashville, TN is where you deserve to live. These unique and spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes offer island kitchens, private verandas, and custom cherry cabinetry. Residents enjoy luxury amenities, including a relaxing pool and cabana area, 24-hour fitness
Spacious floor plan with three bedrooms & two and 1/2 baths. ALL NEW LVP FLOORING, AND COUNTERTOPS! Eat in kitchen with open area into the living room with built-in cabinets and a fire place. The loft style bonus room is great for lounging. Master suite features two separate walk in closets. No Pets Permitted.
Looking for a smart home close to the best shopping and dining in town? Explore our luxurious 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments for rent in Hendersonville, TN. You'll discover upscale features like a gourmet kitchen, nine-foot ceilings, and hardwood-style flooring in select homes — and a sparkling pool and beautiful clubhouse in our community. You'll also find a wealth of smart technology in your
Super cute, completely renovated duplex offers 2-bedrooms, 1 full bathroom Located on the Walton Ferry Peninsula in the desirable Hendersonville, TN. This Duplex is just minutes from the lake and boat dock. This fantastic home offers a cozy living room that opens up to a beautifully Renovated kitchen, tile backsplash and Stainless appliances to include a fridge. Brand new LVP flooring throughout!
Life at The Luxe is about comfort, convenience, and luxury. Your home features a spacious floor plan with modern design, magnificent amenities like the saltwater pool, and located within convenient walking access to shops, restaurants, and green space. Inside your spacious home at The Luxe, you’ll find high-end finishes and little touches that will wow you at every turn—a gourmet-style kitchen,
Don’t miss this incredible end-unit townhome located in the highly sought-after Durham Farms community! This beautifully designed Monterey floor plan offers maintenance-free living with a spacious two-level open layout featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a bonus room, and a private upstairs owner’s suite. The stunning kitchen is designed to impress with tall white cabinetry, under-cabinet
Along the banks of Old Hickory Lake and across from Creekwood Marina, Nottingham Apartments offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in Hendersonville, TN. Our spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments provide a relaxing retreat, while the surrounding neighborhood puts dining, shopping, and entertainment within easy reach. Enjoy lakeside meals and live music at Lyncoya Café,
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