Cookeville, TN


12 Reviews



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Cookeville, TN

About Cookeville, TN

Cookeville, TN is nestled in the Upper Cumberland Plateau providing numerous outdoor activities including hiking and biking trails as well as several cultural attractions like art galleries, music venues and museums. Mid-size metro area set in the rolling hills and plateau of the Southeast region. Primary industries include education and manufacturing. Also known as a college town. - Situated in central Tennessee, 80 miles east of Nashville and 110 miles west of Knoxville..

Location Details

State: Tennessee
County: Putnam County
Metro Area: Cookeville Metro Area
City: Cookeville
Zip Codes: 38501 38506 38505
Cost of Living: -12.9% lower
Time zone: Central Standard Time (CST)
Elevation: 1096 ft above sea level
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Dig Deeper on Cookeville

Cookeville, TN, nestled within the Upper Cumberland Region of Tennessee, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the American Southeast. Founded in 1854 and named after Richard Fielding Cooke, one of Tennessee's state legislators, Cookeville quickly grew into a community centered around the Tennessee Central Railway. This strategic positioning fostered its development, making it a pivotal hub for commerce and transportation in the region.

The city's geography is marked by a distinctive blend of natural beauty and urban development. Surrounded by rolling hills and situated near several state parks, including the vast and serene Burgess Falls State Park, Cookeville offers residents and visitors alike a unique opportunity to engage with the outdoors. The presence of the Cumberland Plateau to the east provides a dramatic backdrop to the city, enhancing its scenic charm. The climate here features warm summers and mild winters, typical of the Southeast, allowing for year-round outdoor activities.

Today, Cookeville's economy is buoyed by a mix of manufacturing, education, and healthcare. As home to Tennessee Tech University, the city benefits from the vibrancy and innovation brought about by an academic institution, leading to a dynamic and forward-thinking community. The healthcare sector, anchored by the Cookeville Regional Medical Center, serves as a critical component of the local economy, providing jobs and services to the wider Upper Cumberland region.

In terms of voting patterns, Cookeville, along with Putnam County, generally aligns with conservative values, reflective of the broader political trends seen across much of Tennessee. This inclination highlights a community that prioritizes traditional values and policies, with an active engagement in both local and national elections.

Cultural and recreational activities abound in Cookeville, drawing on its rich historical heritage and natural landscape. The Cookeville History Museum offers insights into the city's past, from its early days to the present, while the Cookeville Depot Museum pays homage to the city's railway heritage. For those seeking outdoor adventure, the nearby Cane Creek Park provides numerous trails, picnic areas, and a lake for fishing and boating, embodying the city's connection to its surrounding natural environment.

New residents will find that Cookeville offers a lifestyle that combines the simplicity and warmth of small-town living with the amenities and opportunities of a larger city. The community is welcoming, with a strong emphasis on family, education, and community involvement. Living in Cookeville means being part of a city that values progress and innovation while staying true to its roots and traditions.

In conclusion, Cookeville, TN, presents a compelling blend of historical depth, natural beauty, economic vitality, and community spirit. Its strategic location, coupled with the diverse opportunities for both professional growth and personal enjoyment, make it an attractive destination for individuals and families looking for a place to call home. For newcomers, embracing the city's unique character and engaging with its vibrant community life are keys to enjoying all that Cookeville has to offer.

Cookeville Cost of Living
$$$$

Reasonable home cost, college town, and moderate winters make Cookeville a great place to live.

$287,300
-17.7% lower than avg
$43,611
-58.3% lower than avg
$910 /mo
Monthly rent (2br)
-57.1% lower than avg
Cookeville Crime
63.8 / 100
Crime is ranked on a scale of 1 (low) to 100 (high). US average: 35.4
Minimum annual income
To live comfortably in Cookeville, Tennessee
$55,080
for a family
$28,000
for a single person
Pros & Cons of Cookeville
   Reasonable home cost
Uncomfortable humidity
   College town
High sales tax (but no income tax)
   Moderate winters
Unremarkable landscape
Reviews for Cookeville
    See all (12)

Over 2 years ago

I lived in Cookeville for around 7 years non consecutively. Don’t expect to go on a walk here. Sidewalks are fairly abundant but they are not well maintained and there  More

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My wife and I both moved here to work for state government. Other people are right, the pay is awful, hovering around $28k for people with masters and doctorates. Rental  More

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Been here for 4-5 years now, crime is on the rise and pay is stagnant, don't look for much over 28k a year in gross income here. Lots of areas are getting metro  More

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