The Suburbs of Memphis: Which Is Best for You?

If you’ve spent any time around Memphis, you know that choosing where to live is about more than just finding a house you love. It’s about finding the right fit for your everyday life. Maybe you want a little more space, a neighborhood with a strong sense of community, or a location that makes your daily commute easier. Whatever your priorities, the Memphis area has plenty of options to explore.

One thing I always recommend is looking beyond the house itself. Think about where you’ll grab your morning coffee, spend your weekends, run errands, and unwind at the end of the day. Those little things can make a big difference in how much you love where you live.

So, let’s take a look at a few popular Memphis suburbs and what makes each one worth considering!

Germantown: Established Neighborhoods and Everyday Convenience

Germantown is a great place to start if you’re looking for established neighborhoods, beautiful green spaces, and convenient access to shopping, dining, and local activities.

It has a polished suburban feel, with tree-lined streets, parks, and community amenities that make it easy to enjoy time close to home. You’ll also find local favorites like the Shops of Saddle Creek and the Germantown Performing Arts Center.

If you’re looking for a community with a well-established feel and plenty to do nearby, Germantown is definitely worth a look. Just keep in mind that home prices and property taxes can vary, so it’s important to compare the full cost of living in your preferred neighborhood.

Collierville: Small-Town Charm With Plenty to Do

There’s something special about Collierville, especially around the historic Town Square. With its local shops, restaurants, community events, and seasonal activities, it offers a welcoming atmosphere while still providing plenty of modern conveniences.

Collierville also has a variety of established neighborhoods and newer developments, so there are different home styles to explore depending on what you’re looking for.

If you enjoy the idea of spending a Saturday browsing local shops, meeting friends for dinner, or enjoying a community event, Collierville might be right up your alley. It’s a wonderful option to explore if you want that small-town feel without being too far from the Memphis area.

Bartlett: A Comfortable Suburban Feel

Bartlett is another popular option for buyers who want a traditional suburban setting with everyday conveniences close by.

The area offers a variety of homes and established neighborhoods, along with parks, recreational facilities, and community activities. There’s a little bit of variety here, which can be helpful when you’re trying to balance your wish list with your budget.

Bartlett is worth considering if you want a residential neighborhood, convenient shopping, and access to major roads for getting around the Memphis area.

As always, take time to explore individual neighborhoods. The feel of one part of Bartlett can be different from another, and finding the right fit often comes down to the details.

Lakeland: Room to Breathe and Enjoy the Outdoors

If you’re drawn to a quieter suburban setting, Lakeland might catch your attention.

Known for its residential communities, green spaces, and outdoor recreation, Lakeland offers a different pace from some of the busier parts of the metro area. International Harvester Park is one spot worth checking out if you enjoy walking trails, wooded scenery, or spending time outdoors.

Lakeland has also seen new development, giving buyers more housing options to explore. Depending on the neighborhood, you may find a mix of traditional single-family homes and newer housing choices.

If having a little breathing room and enjoying a more residential atmosphere are high on your list, Lakeland deserves a place on your shortlist.

Cordova: Variety and Convenience

Cordova is worth exploring if you want plenty of housing options and easy access to shopping, restaurants, and everyday services.

One of the things to appreciate about Cordova is the variety. Different neighborhoods offer different home styles, layouts, and price points, which gives buyers more flexibility when narrowing down their options.

With shopping destinations like Wolfchase Galleria nearby, running errands and finding places to eat are convenient in many parts of the area.

If you’re still figuring out exactly what you want in a home, Cordova can be a good place to explore several different neighborhood styles before making a decision.

Arlington: A Smaller-Town Atmosphere

For buyers who like the idea of a smaller-town setting, Arlington is another community to put on the list.

Arlington has a distinct local identity, with community events, parks, and a growing selection of residential developments. It offers a different feel from some of the more established suburban areas, and its historic character is part of its appeal.

Because Arlington is farther from central Memphis than some other suburbs, I’d recommend checking your commute during the times you’d actually be driving. A location that looks perfect on a map may feel different once you factor in your daily routine.

Still, if you’re looking for a community with a small-town feel and room to explore different housing options, Arlington is worth considering.

So, Which Memphis Suburb Is Best for You?

Honestly, there isn’t one right answer. The best suburb is the one that fits your budget, your lifestyle, and the way you want to live day to day.

Before deciding, I’d encourage you to think about a few things:

• Your budget: Consider not only the purchase price but also property taxes, insurance, HOA fees, and ongoing maintenance.
• Your commute: Test the drive to work, school, or other places you visit regularly.
• Your preferred lifestyle: Do you want to be close to shopping and restaurants, enjoy outdoor spaces, or have a quieter residential setting?
• Your home wish list: Think about the number of bedrooms, yard size, layout, and whether you prefer an established home or newer construction.
• Your long-term plans: Consider how well a home and neighborhood will fit your needs over the next several years.

It’s also a good idea to visit your favorite areas at different times of day. Drive around, explore local parks, grab a bite to eat, and get a feel for the community. Sometimes, those little experiences tell you more than a listing ever could.

Let’s Find Your Place in the Memphis Area

The good news is that you don’t have to figure it all out at once. Whether you’re drawn to Germantown, love the charm of Collierville, prefer the convenience of Bartlett or Cordova, or want to explore Lakeland or Arlington, there are plenty of possibilities throughout the Memphis area.

My advice? Start with what matters most to you, keep an open mind, and take the time to explore. The right home isn’t just about the number of bedrooms or the size of the backyard. It’s about finding a place where you can picture yourself feeling at home.

Thinking about buying a home in the Memphis area? I’d love to help you explore your options, answer your questions, and find a community that feels right for you. Let’s find your next place to call home!