The results are in — Nashville really is the place to live, work, and play for young professionals, according to Forbes.

The business media company ranked Music City No. 9 on its recent list of "Top 10 Places For Young Professionals To Live" after comparing 100 of the most heavily-populated metros across 10 metrics. Let's debrief the case and take it a step further.

Study takeaways

Despite a median home price on the higher end ($385,800) compared to other metros on the list (read: Kansas City, Cincinnati, Columbus, OH + more) — the overall cost of living in Nashville still ticks below the national average.

The city is also recognized for its low unemployment rate and strong job market across its key industries, including education and health services, transportation and utilities, hospitality, and more. The area's median age range rings in at ~36-37 years old.

NASHtoday finds

Sold on the move but looking for your next step? There's a list for that, too. Niche, a ranking and reviews site, released its "2023 Best Neighborhoods for Young Professionals in the Nashville Area" list. Here are the top three:

No. 1 — North Capitol | Of the top three neighborhoods, this one has a larger chunk of residents choosing to own homes over renting at 38%.
No. 2 — Downtown | Young professionals can't get closer to the heart of the action between the many bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks located in the urban core.
No. 3 — Watkins Park | This neighborhood ranked No. 4 overall on Niche's best neighborhoods to live, but jumped a spot in its appeal to young professionals.

We'd be remiss to mention the weekly networking mixers and groups for young professionals across the city. Add these upcoming events to your calendar:

Bring Your Own Business Card | Thursday, Aug. 10 | 4:30-6:30 p.m. | City Tap House Nashville, 204 3rd Ave. S. | $10
Network Under 40 Nashville: Hopsmith Tavern | Wednesday, Aug. 16 | 6-9 p.m. | Hopsmith Tavern, 1903 Division St. | $30+
Nashville Lifestyles Women in Business 2023 | Tuesday, Aug. 22 | 5-7:30 p.m. | Asurion Corporate Headquarters, 1101 Church St. | $65