Smack dab in the middle of Tennessee and with the Duck River running through it, Shelbyville is a small historic town and the Walking Horse Capital of the World. Home to 25,000, this rural city is surrounded by natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities about 60 miles south of Nashville. “Driving a back road in this area is just gorgeous. People ride a lot of Harleys and take their vintage cars out for cruises,” says Tad Craig, real estate broker and auctioneer at Craig & Wheeler Realty and Auction. “You pass beautiful horse farms, pastures and waterfalls on the side of the road. It's just a really, really pretty area.” With the small-town feel comes a booming agricultural and manufacturing industry and highly rated schools.
An old hydroelectric plant and the dam are the main features of Fisherman's Park.
Shelbyville is known for their Tennessee Walking Horses.
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Housing market and major industries
The median home sale price is $320,000, lower than the national figure. Architectural styles include New Traditional and ranch-style homes. Homes downtown tend to cost less than residences on the outskirts, which usually have more acreage and higher square footage.
Agriculture and manufacturing are the dominant industries, with Tyson Foods, Musgrave Pencil Company, Rubbermaid and Marelli, a Nissan subsidiary that supplies its three Tennessee auto plants, as major employers. The training and breeding of Tennessee Walking Horses is also a large part of the local economy.
You can find several new traditional homes being built in Shelbyville, TN.
There are mostly ranch style homes in Shelbyville, TN.
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Fishing, floating and boating on the Duck River
Shelbyville maintains eight city parks along with the Shelbyville Recreation Center, inside of which residents can exercise, take classes and more. Outdoors, the center sprawls with 84 acres of playgrounds and sports fields. As Shelbyville is located along the Duck River, many of its parks offer fishing, floating and boating. “We have one of the top five most biologically diverse rivers in the world,” says Craig. “The Duck River has over 570 species of aquatic wildlife.” Threaded by 16 trails, locals can also take scenic treks — on foot or horseback — through the countryside.
Cooper Steel Arena hosts horse shows, monster truck shows, rodeos and circuses.
Cooper Steel Arena host rodeos and barrel racing in Shelbyville, TN.
HV Griffin Park has a large playground, skate park and pavilion.
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The Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration
Every August, Shelbyville holds the Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Dating back to 1939, this event is a 10-day equestrian show. “It made our town famous. People come from all over the world to show horses and have fun. It’s a festival-like atmosphere,” says Craig. “Anybody that you can imagine that’s into horses has come to check it out.”
A stop on the Tennessee Whiskey Trail
Most restaurants are clustered along the historic streets of downtown or lining U.S. Route 231. Shops and grocery stores are scattered throughout the city. “We’re known for whiskey,” says Craig. He relays that the city has become an unofficial stop on The Tennessee Whiskey Trail after the founding of Uncle Nearest, a local whiskey brand that opened for business eight years ago.
Nearest Green Distillery commemorates the godfather of Tennessee Whiskey, Nearest Green.
Popes Cafe offers breakfast and lunch in Downtown Shelbyville.
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The Bedford County School District
The Bedford County School District scores a B-minus on Niche. The district operates nine elementary schools, six middle schools and three high schools. Thomas Magnet School is a high-ranking institute, earning an A-minus on the site. The Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Shelbyville offers 19 programs granting degrees and certifications.
Cascade High School is a public 9-12 high school servicing Bedford Co.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology is located in Shelbyville, TN.
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Getting around Shelbyville
U.S. Route 231 and U.S. Route 41A intersect at the heart of Shelbyville, providing a direct route to Nashville. Though Shelbyville does not have a fixed-route public transportation service, Bedford County provides transportation for seniors and those with disabilities. The Shelbyville Municipal Airport is located 4 miles outside the city but is not served by air carriers. Right across from the airport is the Vanderbilt Bedford Hospital. For a broader range of destinations and airlines, the Nashville International Airport is 57 miles north.
U.S. Route 231 runs through Shelbyville connecting it to neighboring cities.
Every August, Shelbyville holds the Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration.
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Environment and Crime
“We have hot summers, wonderful springs, beautiful falls and cold winters,” says Craig. “It's not the Deep South, so it's not too crazy as far as mugginess, and it's not New Orleans heat.” Subject to occasional extreme weather, Shelbyville has a higher risk of tornado damage than the Tennessee and U.S. average, though only one low-end EF2 tornado occurred within the last 20 years.
According to FBI data, the rates of reported violent crime and property crime in Shelbyville are lower than the Tennessee average and higher than the national average, though rates of property crime have been declining since 2023.
Written By
Stephanie Davison
Photography Contributed By
Nathan Pedigo
Video By
Jason Jacot
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
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.
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On average, homes in Shelbyville, TN sell after 67 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Shelbyville, TN over the last 12 months is $315,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Step into modern comfort and effortless style with this LIKE NEW 2-story home featuring 3 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 baths, all located within a gated community. We start our tour with the welcoming covered front porch and an ideal open-concept floorplan. You’ll love the beautiful laminate flooring and bright, airy feel throughout. The kitchen is the heart of the home with granite countertops,
SUPER BOWL SPECIAL!!! Refrigerator / Washer /Dryer Included & Incentives Increased on GAME DAY!!LOT # 8 - Elevation C -Step into Idle Reserve's stunning one-level VENTURE plan---a home that blends charm, space, and style. Showcased in the elegant " Artic White " exterior, this 1842 sq ft beauty rest on a spacious.423-acre homesite (just shy of half an acre) offering room to breath and grow.
Welcome home to 380 Sulphur Springs Rd in beautiful Shelbyville, proud home of the Tennessee Walking Horse. This timeless brick rancher blends classic character with tasteful updates, all in a convenient in-town location. You’ll love the inviting curb appeal, paved two-car driveway, and impressive 23x24 covered carport with attached workshop and storage, perfect for hobbies, projects, or extra
One-level living nearly new house located on cul-de-sac backing to open space. Enjoy quiet evenings on the covered porch/back patio while the kids and pets roam the privacy fenced yard. Inside you will find an open floor plan with quartz counters/island overlooking the great room, laminate floors and stainless appliances. All situated just northwest of town with easy access to 840 and all things
YOUR OPPORTUNITY to have a COTTAGE HOME with MANY NEW UPDATES!! NEW KITCHEN UPDATES include open shelf cabinetry & NEW BACKSPLASH, FARM SINK, NEW CUSTOM CEILING, CUSTOM GRANITE & CUSTOM TILE, & the KITCHEN also features STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES!! BATH UPDATING features NEW CUSTOM TILE TUB & SHOWER SURROUND with reglazed tub & NEW FIXTURES, decorative VANITY BOWL SINK, & a BARN STYLE sliding
LIKE NEW FOUR BEDROOM TOWN HOME built in 2023! PRIMARY SUITE is GROUND/FIRST LEVEL! NUMEROUS UPGRADES by owner from ORIGINAL STANDARD BUILDER GRADE! Unique home in PARK PLACE features 4 bedrooms & 2 1/2 baths, open floor plan kitchen, living, & dining area- largest floor plan in this community! The PRIMARY BEDROOM with en suite bath features DOUBLE SINK VANITY, CUSTOM TILE SHOWER with HANDICAP
GREAT HOME for the $$$$ - LOADS of SPACE, HIGH & DRY 1.2 ACRE YARD with SALT WATER POOL!! CUSTOM BUILT EXECUTIVE BRICK HOME with 4 Bdrms plus TWO BONUS ROOMS - one could be a 5th BEDROOM with PRIVATE BATH, OR a 2nd OFFICE. OR a CLASSROOM! WELCOME HOME SCHOOLERS!! Leave it a 4 Bedroom & have 2 OFFICES + BONUS ROOM!! The current OFFICE adjoining the BONUS ROOM with BATH could easily be a SITTIN
Stunningly Remodeled Home with Top-Tier Upgrades. The kitchen is fully redesigned with sleek, brand-new black LG appliances, includes a double oven and a convenient microwave drawer. Entertain with ease using the built-in wine cooler and enjoy the quiet luxury of custom soft-close cabinetry and a high-performance exhaust fan.The seamless flow continues across all-new, durable LVP flooring
5.01 Acres awaiting your dream home build! Introducing Lot #2 of 5 building lots with, each has soil sites. Public utility Water is available w/ taps on 2 tracts. Duck River Frontage on some lots and close to town but county taxes only. Excellent building tracts that are build ready! Highway 64 West lots all have driveway permits! Lot #3 is also 5.01 acres listed separately for $145,290.
UNLIMITED POTENTIAL on busy road with high exposure! The possibilities for this 12.1+/- acres are limitless, highly desirable area! Owner will divide at $400,000 per acre, water, gas, & power available at the road.
This 10.61-acre tract offers endless possibilities with county water and electricity available and a 3-bedroom soil site already approved. Whether you’re ready to build your forever home, start a mini-farm, or simply enjoy the peaceful countryside, this property provides the ideal foundation. Bring your plans, your vision, and your dreams—and call this place home!
Currently a charming 2 bed, 1 bath barndominium offering 1,188 sq ft of open living space. You’ll love the spacious living, dining, and kitchen areas, plus oversized bedrooms and a large bath with tiled walk-in shower, double vanities, and laundry access. Equestrian-ready with a 9-stall horse barn (with wash bay), a huge lean-to for storage, and an outdoor wash rack. The property includes a large
One of a kind listing! The kitchen features classic solid oak cabinets, providing ample storage and a timeless aesthetic. Unwind in the primary bedroom, complete with a cozy gas log fireplace for serene evenings and a private, updated bath. Enjoy year-round relaxation in the bright sunroom, or step outside to the comfortable covered patio, perfect for entertaining or quiet mornings. Property also
Beautifully remodeled Home with Modern Upgrades & Natural Charm! Nestled in a peaceful setting, this meticulously maintained home offers the perfect blend of modern interior features and outdoor adventure. Interior Highlights: Vaulted cathedral ceilings in the spacious family room, offering an open and airy feel. Beautiful custom Hickory cabinets with built-ins in the kitchen, Recessed can
Escape to the country with 16.84 acres of gorgeous wooded land featuring multiple soil sites and two water taps already in place—a huge head start for your future build! With over 1,600 ft of road frontage, you’ll have plenty of space, privacy, and flexibility for your dream home, retreat, or investment opportunity. Tucked away with peaceful surroundings and natural beauty, this property is also
HOME FOR LEASE - 105 Kingwood Avenue Shelbyville. 3 BR 2 BA one-level Home with all new flooring, bathrooms, paint, stainless kitchen appliances, laundry room, replacement windows, attached carport, new high efficiency HVAC system. You pay your own utilities. Text Listing Agent to Discuss Further.
Davis Estates Apartments conveniently located on Anthony Lane, just off Madison Street. Close to Walmart, downtown merchants and the Shelbyville Recreation Center. Davis Estates Apartments, The BEST CHOICE for living in Bedford County. Our professional management staff will maintain a carefree lifestyle for you!We look forward to welcoming you home.
Welcome home to this well appointed 2 bed 1 bath apartment located in a quiet, convenient area of Shelbyville. This home is located in the heart of Shelbyville with a short commute to Murfreesboro!! Perfect for small families, couples, or professionals looking for comfort and functionality.
David BradfordBetter Homes & Gardens Real Estate Heritage Group
Experience the lifestyle you deserve at the Admiral Place, a modern rental community of studios and 2-bedroom apartments for rent in Shelbyville, TN Our spacious floorplans boast open layouts and central heating and air conditioning. We also offer ample parking and professional management and on-site maintenance.
This spacious home would be perfect for you along with a large yard and a quiet neighborhood. It offers one and a half bath and a combo of hardwood and carpet throughout. This home is convenient to food and shopping.
David BradfordBetter Homes & Gardens Real Estate Heritage Group
Welcome to the Oak Knoll Community! We are located in Shelbyville, Tennessee, along the Duck River in what is known as the Walking Horse Capital of the World! Our community is set among rolling hills approximately 50 miles southeast of Nashville. Shelbyville, located in Bedford County, offers some of the states most beautiful views and easy scenic highway access to many other historic cities. Oak
Truly one of a kind, this property could be a short term lease option or long term. This gem is fully furnished and the owner will be taking care of the wifi, furnishings, and utilities on your behalf.
David BradfordBetter Homes & Gardens Real Estate Heritage Group
This property is managed by Beztak, 2025 recipient of the US Best Managed Companies for the sixth year in a row, sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. Call and let us tell you why! With a sparkling pool and playground for the children. Designed with comfort and convenience in mind, Park Trail features amenities that make you feel at home. With features like professional
2 bedroom 1 bath Brick Apartment. Stainless steel appliances, washer/dryer included. Laminate flooring throughout with tile flooring in bath and laundry. No Pets
Property Id: 16604351 Bed 1 Bath - Apartment507 S Cannon Blvd, Shelbyville, TN 37160-3896, United States1300/mo EVERYTHING INCLUDED. 507 S Cannon Blvd Shelbyville Tn. Studio suite on the Duck River, available asap!This is a one bedroom, non smoking efficiency suite. ALL APPLIANCES are furnished including washer/dryer, stove, refrigerator, and
Step inside this beautiful brick home and make yourself at home. This property comes equipped with a washer/dryer combo, granite countertops, stainless appliances AND a very short commute to Murfreesboro.
David BradfordBetter Homes & Gardens Real Estate Heritage Group
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