List of Cities in Tennessee Alphabetically

by btobers · Published August 23, 2024 · Updated November 11, 2024

Tennessee has around 345 incorporated cities and towns. The state capital is Nashville, which is also the largest city, famous for its music industry, particularly country music. Other large cities include Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, Franklin, Jackson, Johnson City, and Bartlett. Nashville and Memphis dominate the state’s urban landscape, with Nashville being the cultural and political hub and Memphis serving as a center for shipping and logistics. Tennessee’s smaller towns are often tied to agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, especially near the Great Smoky Mountains.

1. Memphis

City Facts

Population: Approximately 621,777 (2023 estimates)
Area Codes: 901
Zip Codes: 37501–38197
County: Shelby County

Geography and History

Memphis is located in southwestern Tennessee, on the Mississippi River. The city has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Founded in 1819, Memphis grew quickly due to its strategic location on the river, making it a key transportation and trade center. In the 19th century, cotton and lumber industries flourished, with the city becoming a major hub for cotton export. The city also played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement, being the location of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination in 1968. Known as the birthplace of blues music, Memphis has a rich musical heritage that includes icons like Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and Johnny Cash. Today, it is an important cultural, commercial, and logistical center.

Colleges and Universities

University of Memphis: A major public research university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly known for its business, law, and engineering schools.
Rhodes College: A private liberal arts college known for strong programs in the humanities, sciences, and business.
Christian Brothers University: A private Catholic university offering programs in engineering, education, and business.
LeMoyne-Owen College: A historically black liberal arts college offering degrees in business, education, and the humanities.
Southwest Tennessee Community College: Offers associate degrees and certificates, serving as a key community college in the Memphis area.

Major Landmarks

Memphis is home to Graceland, Elvis Presley’s famous estate and one of the most visited attractions in the United States. Beale Street, a historic street in downtown Memphis, is the heart of the city’s blues scene, featuring clubs, restaurants, and live music. The National Civil Rights Museum, located at the Lorraine Motel, is a major landmark commemorating the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Mud Island River Park offers scenic views of the Mississippi River, while the Stax Museum of American Soul Music celebrates the city’s rich musical history. The Memphis Zoo and the Sun Studio, where legendary musicians recorded, are also key attractions.

2. Nashville

City Facts

Population: Approximately 678,851 (2023 estimates)
Area Codes: 615, 629
Zip Codes: 37011–37250
County: Davidson County

Geography and History

Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, is located on the Cumberland River in the central part of the state. It has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Founded in 1779, Nashville grew rapidly due to its location as a transportation hub and its importance as a river port. The city became a center for the cotton trade and manufacturing during the 19th century. Known as “Music City,” Nashville is famous for its country music heritage, with the Grand Ole Opry and the rise of the recording industry in the 20th century solidifying its status as the heart of the country music world. Today, Nashville is a major center for healthcare, education, and tourism.

Colleges and Universities

Vanderbilt University: A prestigious private research university known for its law, business, and medical schools, as well as strong liberal arts programs.
Tennessee State University: A historically black public university offering programs in business, engineering, and the sciences.
Belmont University: A private Christian university recognized for its music business program, as well as strong offerings in law, business, and healthcare.
Lipscomb University: A private Christian liberal arts college offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields like education, business, and theology.
Nashville State Community College: A public community college offering associate degrees and technical certificates.

Major Landmarks

Nashville’s most iconic landmark is the Grand Ole Opry, a world-famous country music venue. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum chronicles the history of country music and its stars. The Parthenon in Centennial Park is a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek temple, reflecting Nashville’s nickname, “The Athens of the South.” Ryman Auditorium, once the home of the Grand Ole Opry, is another significant music landmark. The Johnny Cash Museum and the Frist Art Museum are also cultural highlights. The Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park offers panoramic views of the Tennessee State Capitol, while Broadway is a bustling area filled with live music, restaurants, and nightlife.

3. Knoxville

City Facts

Population: Approximately 192,648 (2023 estimates)
Area Codes: 865
Zip Codes: 37901–37998
County: Knox County

Geography and History

Knoxville is located in eastern Tennessee, at the junction of the Tennessee River and the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. The city has a humid subtropical climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Founded in 1791, Knoxville served as the first capital of Tennessee. It grew as an important regional trade center, with river transport and railroads driving its early development. The city played a key role in the Civil War, and post-war industrialization further expanded its economy. Today, Knoxville is known for its proximity to outdoor recreation in the Smoky Mountains and for being a major hub for education, energy research, and industry.

Colleges and Universities

University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK): The flagship public university of the University of Tennessee system, known for its strong engineering, business, and sports programs.
Pellissippi State Community College: A public community college offering associate degrees and certifications in various fields.
Johnson University: A private Christian university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in theology, education, and business.
South College: A private institution offering programs in health sciences, business, and legal studies.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (Knoxville): Provides technical education and vocational training for students seeking to enter the workforce.

Major Landmarks

Knoxville is home to the Sunsphere, an iconic tower built for the 1982 World’s Fair, offering panoramic views of the city. Market Square is a lively downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and live entertainment. The Knoxville Museum of Art showcases regional and contemporary art, while the East Tennessee History Center highlights the city’s role in the Civil War and Appalachian culture. The University of Tennessee campus features Neyland Stadium, home to the Tennessee Volunteers football team. Ijams Nature Center, located along the Tennessee River, offers hiking trails and wildlife exhibits. The nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts.

4. Chattanooga

City Facts

Population: Approximately 186,788 (2023 estimates)
Area Codes: 423
Zip Codes: 37341, 37401–37450
County: Hamilton County

Geography and History

Chattanooga is located in southeastern Tennessee, along the Tennessee River and surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains. The city experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Chattanooga was founded in 1839, and its location at the crossroads of river and rail transport made it a key hub during the Civil War. The city was the site of several important battles, including the Battle of Chattanooga. After the war, the city became an industrial center, particularly in manufacturing and transportation. In recent years, Chattanooga has transformed into a tech and tourism hub, known for its revitalized downtown and natural beauty.

Colleges and Universities

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC): A public university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees, known for its programs in business, engineering, and education.
Chattanooga State Community College: A public community college offering associate degrees and technical certifications.
Southern Adventist University: A private Christian university located nearby in Collegedale, known for its nursing, business, and education programs.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (Chattanooga): Offers vocational training in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, and information technology.
Richmont Graduate University: A private graduate school offering advanced degrees in counseling and ministry.

Major Landmarks

Chattanooga is famous for the Tennessee Aquarium, one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world, located along the city’s scenic riverfront. Lookout Mountain is home to several attractions, including Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the historic Incline Railway. The Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, connects downtown Chattanooga to the North Shore district. The Hunter Museum of American Art is located atop a bluff overlooking the river, featuring works from the colonial period to modern times. The Chattanooga Choo Choo, a former train station, has been converted into a hotel and entertainment complex, reflecting the city’s railroad history.

5. Clarksville

City Facts

Population: Approximately 170,957 (2023 estimates)
Area Codes: 931
Zip Codes: 37040–37044
County: Montgomery County

Geography and History

Clarksville is located in northern Tennessee, along the Cumberland River and close to the Kentucky border. The city has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Clarksville was founded in 1785 and played a key role as a river port and trading center in the 19th century. Its economy historically relied on agriculture, particularly tobacco, and the military, with the nearby Fort Campbell Army base contributing significantly to the local economy. In recent years, Clarksville has experienced rapid growth, driven by its proximity to Nashville and its appeal to military families.

Colleges and Universities

Austin Peay State University (APSU): A public university offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly strong in education, nursing, and the arts.
Daymar College: A private institution offering career-focused programs in healthcare, business, and criminal justice.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (Clarksville Campus): Provides vocational training in fields such as healthcare, automotive technology, and business.
Nashville State Community College (Clarksville Campus): Offers associate degrees and certifications, with transfer opportunities to four-year universities.
Bethel University (Clarksville Campus): A private Christian university offering degrees in business, education, and criminal justice.

Major Landmarks

Clarksville’s downtown historic district features the Customs House Museum and Cultural Center, which showcases local history, art, and science exhibits. Dunbar Cave State Park, located just outside the city, offers hiking trails and guided tours of the cave’s prehistoric cave art. The Roxy Regional Theatre, a historic theater built in 1947, hosts live performances and films. Fort Defiance Civil War Park offers insight into the city’s role during the Civil War, with exhibits and walking trails. The Wilma Rudolph Event Center is named after the Olympic gold medalist from Clarksville, celebrating her achievements and legacy. The Cumberland RiverWalk is a popular destination for walking, biking, and community events along the river.

List of Cities in Tennessee Alphabetically

1. Memphis

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

2. Nashville

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

3. Knoxville

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

4. Chattanooga

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

5. Clarksville

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

List of All Cities and Towns in Tennessee in Alphabetical Order

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