Honest Insights from Locals (And Movers Who've Seen It All)
If you’re wondering, “Is Germantown a good place to live?” — let’s dive into the real answer. You’ve probably heard good things. Maybe you’ve even seen top lists like “Best Suburbs in the South” or “Safest Places in Tennessee.” But what’s it actually like to live there?
At Titan Elite Moving & Packing, we’ve helped a lot of families, retirees, and professionals move in and around Germantown, Tennessee. So we know a thing or two about what makes this Memphis-area suburb special — and where it might not be for everyone.
Let’s walk through what life in Germantown really looks like — the pros, the cons, and everything in between — so you can decide for yourself whether it’s the right fit.
Quick Summary: Is Germantown a Good Place to Live?
Yes — Germantown, Tennessee is widely considered one of the best places to live in the state. It’s clean, safe, family-friendly, and known for its top-ranked schools and strong community feel. But if you’re someone who thrives on nightlife or prefers a fast-paced urban lifestyle, you might find it a bit slow. Explore more fun options in our local’s guide to Germantown.
Let’s break that down further.
Where Is Germantown, TN?
Germantown sits just east of Memphis in Shelby County. It’s a small city with a population of around 40,000, and it’s known for its tree-lined streets, excellent schools, and high property values.
It’s also one of the wealthiest cities in Tennessee, but it still manages to feel laid-back and approachable. Think of it like the polished cousin to Memphis — close enough to enjoy the culture, far enough to enjoy the peace.
What’s It Like Living in Germantown?
Let’s go through the factors most people care about when moving somewhere new.
1. Safety and Cleanliness
This one’s huge: Germantown is one of the safest cities in the state. According to NeighborhoodScout and FBI crime stats, crime rates in Germantown are well below the national average — both violent and property crime.
The city has its own well-staffed police department and a low response time. Streets are clean. Lawns are trimmed. Sidewalks are walkable. You’ll notice right away: this place is kept up.
“We feel totally safe walking our dog at night. Coming from out of state, that peace of mind is huge.”
— Melanie P., recent Germantown transplant
Read more in our blog on Is Germantown, TN Safe? for detailed insights.
2. Schools (Spoiler: They’re Great)
If you’re moving with kids or planning to, Germantown should be on your radar. It’s part of Germantown Municipal School District, which consistently ranks as one of the top school systems in Tennessee.
Some standout schools include:
- Houston High School – Ranked one of the best public high schools in the state
- Dogwood Elementary – Known for strong academics and parent involvement
- Riverdale School – A K-8 with top test scores
Even if you don’t have kids, good schools help boost property values and neighborhood stability.
3. Parks and Outdoor Space
Love green space? You’ll feel right at home here.
Germantown is home to over 700 acres of parkland, including:
- Shelby Farms Greenline
- Cameron Brown Park
- Germantown Greenway
There are also community gardens, dog parks, and a year-round calendar of events like outdoor concerts, festivals, and farmers markets.
“It’s like a small town but with amenities that feel big-city. You don’t have to go far to find a walking trail or playground.”
— James M., Germantown local
4. Cost of Living
Here’s where things get a bit more nuanced.
Germantown is more expensive than nearby suburbs, but not outrageous. Housing prices tend to run higher, with median home values around $500,000 as of 2024. Rent is also higher than the Memphis average.
That said, you’re paying for:
- Top-rated schools
- Low crime
- High-quality infrastructure
- Proximity to Memphis without the chaos
For many families and professionals, it’s worth the tradeoff.
What Are the Downsides?
Okay, let’s keep it real. Germantown isn’t for everyone.
It’s Quiet (Maybe Too Quiet for Some)
If you’re young, single, and looking for a vibrant nightlife scene, Germantown may feel a little… sleepy. You’ll find nice restaurants and some wine bars, but don’t expect late-night clubs or live music on every corner.
Memphis is only 20-25 minutes away, but if you want that walkable city feel every day, this might not be your spot.
Property Taxes Are Higher
Compared to some nearby areas, Germantown’s property taxes are a bit steeper. This helps fund schools, parks, and public safety, but it’s something to factor into your budget.
Diversity of Businesses and Dining
While the local business scene is growing, you’ll still find a lot of national chains. If you’re looking for a super eclectic dining or shopping experience, you may prefer Midtown Memphis or East Memphis. Discover the top local favorites in our Germantown foodie guide.
Who Is Germantown Ideal For?
Let’s be clear — Germantown isn’t one-size-fits-all. But for the right folks, it’s a dream.
- Families who want excellent public schools and low crime
- Retirees looking for a peaceful, safe place with great healthcare nearby
- Young professionals who want suburbia but with access to Memphis jobs
- Remote workers who value quiet and comfort over downtown hustle
By the Numbers: Germantown, TN
Here’s a quick look at some data that backs up the hype:
| Category | Germantown, TN | National Average |
| Violent Crime Rate | 0.8 per 1,000 | 4.0 per 1,000 |
| High School Graduation Rate | 96% | 85% |
| Median Household Income | $125,000+ | $74,580 |
| Median Home Price | ~$500,000 | ~$410,000 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.7% | 3.8% |
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, FBI Crime Stats, GreatSchools.org (2023–2024)
Real-Life Story: Moving to Germantown
We recently moved a family from Nashville to Germantown. The parents were looking for a quieter place with top-tier schools, and they had two kids entering middle school. After comparing several suburbs, they landed on Germantown because of the schools, the walkability of the neighborhood, and the parks.
After six months, they told us they’re “never leaving.”
Their only regret? Not doing it sooner.
If you’re relocating within Germantown, our local moving services can make your move to Germantown seamless and stress-free.
So, Is Germantown a Good Place to Live?
Yes — Germantown is absolutely a good place to live if safety, education, and quality of life are high on your priority list.
It may not have the buzz of downtown Memphis, but what it does offer is peace, pride, and a strong community. Whether you’re raising kids, enjoying retirement, or just want a stable, beautiful place to call home — Germantown delivers.
And if you’ve made up your mind, Titan Elite Moving & Packing is here to make your move smooth and stress-free.
Ready to Move to Germantown?
We specialize as movers in Germantown, TN, and we’ll treat your stuff like it’s our own. Whether you’re coming from across town or out of state, we’ve got you covered.
👉 Get a free moving quote today and take the next step toward calling Germantown home.
Final Note:
If you’re still asking “Is Germantown a good place to live?”, the answer is: yes — for the right kind of lifestyle, it’s one of the best places to live in Tennessee. And we’d love to help you get there.
