Nashville, TN older homes
How much of Nashville's housing is older, next to nearby cities, and what buyers commonly check, from the U.S. Census Bureau and Tennessee disclosure rules.
Nashville housing by year built
The Census Bureau estimates that about 40.7% of the 344,794 housing units in Nashville were built before 1980, and about 28.3% before 1970. These are estimates from a survey, not a count of homes for sale.
Share of homes built before 1980: Nashville and nearby cities
Numbers only, listed alphabetically after Nashville. These are different places at different stages of growth, so a higher or lower share is not a ranking.
| City | Before 1970 | 1970 to 1979 | Built before 1980 | Housing units |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | 28.3% | 12.4% | 40.7% | 344,794 |
| Brentwood | 6.8% | 15.5% | 22.3% | 15,557 |
| Columbia | 34.0% | 14.9% | 48.9% | 19,918 |
| Franklin | 7.1% | 5.7% | 12.8% | 36,239 |
| Murfreesboro | 10.8% | 7.6% | 18.4% | 66,400 |
| Nolensville | 2.3% | 4.3% | 6.6% | 4,538 |
| Spring Hill | 2.7% | 1.1% | 3.8% | 20,536 |
| Thompson's Station | 5.3% | 10.4% | 15.7% | 3,034 |
Disclosures and inspections
- The lead-based paint disclosure applies to homes built before 1978.
- Tennessee sellers complete the residential property condition disclosure (or exemption).
- Radon testing, a sewer scope and a termite inspection are common add-ons to a standard home inspection. Termite and wood-destroying organism (WDO) inspections are commonly requested by buyers and lenders in Tennessee.
Nashville older homes FAQ
How many Nashville homes are older?
According to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (2020-2024), about 40.7% of Nashville city's 344,794 housing units were built before 1980, and about 28.3% before 1970. These are survey estimates.
What is the lead-based paint rule for older homes?
The lead-based paint disclosure applies to homes built before 1978. Tennessee sellers also complete the residential property condition disclosure (or exemption).
What should I inspect in an older home?
Radon testing, a sewer scope and a termite inspection are common add-ons to a standard home inspection, and termite and wood-destroying organism (WDO) inspections are commonly requested by buyers and lenders in Tennessee. Ask your inspector what applies to the home's age.
Do older homes cost less per square foot in Nashville?
This page does not make that claim, because prices depend on size, condition, lot and location. For context, the median sale price per square foot for all Nashville homes was about $267 as of September 30, 2026 (Redfin).
Where can I see older homes for sale in Nashville?
This site does not display live listings. Tell me your budget, area and timeline through the Get Matched form and I will send options.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 5-year estimates for 2020-2024. Estimates have margins of error. This page is general information, not legal, tax, lending or financial advice. I do not rank neighborhoods or steer buyers toward or away from any area. Equal Housing Opportunity.
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