Moving Between Bowling Green, KY and Middle Tennessee: What to Know

I work with a lot of families moving in both directions between Bowling Green and Middle Tennessee. Some are leaving Nashville prices behind for more space in Kentucky. Others are moving south for a job and want to stay close to family in Bowling Green. Either way, the questions are usually the same.

How Far Is It?

Bowling Green to downtown Nashville is about an hour down I-65. That's why towns along the corridor, like Portland, White House, Springfield and Gallatin, are so popular. They put you within reach of Nashville jobs while keeping you close to Kentucky.

How Do Home Prices Compare?

There's a real difference. In early September, the average sold price in Bowling Green and Warren County was about $360,000, according to my September market update. The median sale price across Middle Tennessee in August was $450,000, which I break down in my Middle Tennessee market update. For a lot of buyers, that gap means more house, more land or a lower payment on the Kentucky side.

What About Taxes?

This is one of the first things people ask. Tennessee doesn't tax wages, and Kentucky does have a state income tax. Property taxes, sales tax and your total cost of living vary by county, so I always suggest talking with a tax professional about your situation. Taxes are only one piece of the decision.

Which Towns Do People Choose?

• Portland and White House appeal to people who want to be close to the Kentucky line with an easy drive to Nashville.
• Springfield offers small town charm and more land for the money.
• Gallatin has lots of new construction and lake access.
• Lebanon works well if you're commuting toward the east side of Nashville.
• Bowling Green gives you a growing city with WKU, strong neighborhoods and lower prices, about an hour from Nashville.

My Best Advice

Decide what matters most first: commute, schools, land, budget or being near family. Then compare two or three towns side by side before falling in love with a house. And if you're selling in one state and buying in the other, plan the timing early so you're not stuck carrying two homes. My page on buying and selling at the same time walks through how that works.

I'd be happy to help you compare your options on both sides of the state line. You can search homes in Bowling Green and each Middle Tennessee town right on my website, see all the areas I serve, or reach out to me directly.