Welcome to Nashville

The city of Nashville, located in North Central Tennessee, is a thriving city comprised of 13 counties with a population of just over 1.5 million (2009 figure). Originally named Nashborough (after Revolutionary War hero Gen. Francis Nash), the settlement was founded in 1779 and experienced rapid growth as a result of its strategic location on the Cumberland River. The following 10 years saw many changes, including the changing of its name to Nashville. The city was incorporated in 1806, becoming the county seat of Davidson County, and was named the capital of Tennessee in 1843.

Known as Music City USA, and the "Country Music Capital of the World", the city has taken great strides to break out of that mold and has become a regional center of culture and commerce. While it still celebrates its country music history, visitors and residents also enjoy a city full of Southern charm, outstanding academics, professional sports, haute cuisine, and natural beauty. According to the Nashville Convention and Visitors Bureau "Nashville is a place where the past and the future coexist and build, one on the other, to create a destination that appeals to the interests of every visitor. The city is alive. You can feel its pulse when you walk down its sidewalks. And, fortunately, you can also hear it almost anywhere you go".

While music remains the backbone of the city, its largest industry is actually health care. Contributing an estimated $18.3 billion and 94,000 jobs (2006 figures), the industry supports over 250 different health care companies, including Hospital Corporation of America, the largest private hospital operator in the world. The Nashville region is also becoming an important center for the automobile industry with Nissan North America establishing their corporate headquarters here. Industries such as insurance, finance, and publishing are also major contributors to Nashville's economy.

Check out my Squidoo Lens on Nashville TN: Music City USA for a comprehensive overview of Nashville's economy, news, and housing market. Click to find out more about Nashville TN Real Estate, including the latest information about Hendersonville, Brentwood, and Franklin. You can also search Nashville real estate listings.