Smyrna

About Smyrna

Located in Rutherford County, Smyrna lies 24 miles southeast of Downtown Nashville. More than 53,000 residents enjoy Smyrna’s great schools; interconnected trails, parks, and greenways; and strong economic environment.

The family-friendly town also happens to be an attractive place to retire thanks to the cost-of-living and an active Senior Activity Center established in 1971. The suburban community is known for its southern hospitality, rural views, proximity to big-city amenities of Nashville, and as the home of the first Nissan Vehicle Assembly Plant in the country.

Smyrna History

Agriculture predominated in the form of large family farms in Smyrna in the mid-1800s, including the Sam Davis Plantation which is now a historic site. Prior to that the land was hunting grounds for Chickasaw, Cherokee, and Creek. Change came in 1941, when an army/air base was installed to train B-17 and B-24 pilots. Renamed Stewart Air Force Base, it became the major employer in Smyrna until it was closed around 1970.

Industrial manufacturing companies began moving to Smyrna next, softening the economic blow of the base shutdown. Smyrna/Rutherford County Airport now operates on the site as the third busiest in Tennessee, serving corporate and general aviation. The next impactful moment came in 1983, when the first automobile rolled off the Nissan Smyrna Assembly Plant.

The economic boost Nissan created continues to grow as the manufacturer has expanded its operations to building electric car batteries as well as popular automobile models. Meanwhile, its reputation as a good corporate citizen grows over the decades. With the regional airport, rail, and three nearby interstate highways, Smyrna is well-positioned for continued economic strength.

Living and Working in Smyrna

Smyrna enjoys safe neighborhoods, plentiful parks, and fellow citizens keen to express their hospitality. Many say how much they enjoy seeing cows grazing around town while enjoying proximity to Nashville.

Newcomers can get acquainted at year-round community celebrations and by volunteering for many civic events and nonprofit organizations. Housing prices and the cost-of-living run just below the national average, and most residents own their own homes.

In addition to Nissan on the work front, Asurion has its headquarters in town. Residents work locally or commute to Nashville to pursue careers in such sectors as manufacturing, medical care, communications, farming, higher education, entertainment, and insurance.

Things to do in Smyrna

Recreation within town and surrounding Smyrna make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Its interconnected trails and greenways join Town Hall to all its wonderful parks, such as Lee Victory Recreation Park, plus there’s an in-town canoe/kayak launch. Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center provides all-ages programming utilizing the 10 parks as well as indoor activities and arts gallery. Arts & Culture Advisory Committee also keeps things creative.

Boating enthusiasts will find ramps at Jefferson Springs and West Fork recreation areas as well as Volunteer Park and Stewart Creek. Shoot 9 or 18 holes at Smyrna Golf Course, where you can try out the hybrid of soccer and golf called foot golf. Just outside town are Fall Creek and Hurricane Creek rec areas. Head to Nashville to celebrate live music and its history at the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and Ryman Auditorium.

Smyrna Transportation

Major arteries serving Smyrna include U.S. 41, I-24, I-840, and TN-102, while I-40 and I-65 are nearby. WeGo Public Transit connects Smyrna and Nashville. Smyrna/Rutherford County Airport serves corporate and general aviation needs. Passengers fly in and out of Nashville International Airport.

Smyrna Schools

Rutherford County Schools provides K-12 public education for Smyrna students. Motlow Community College is in town, while Middle Tennessee State College is close by in Murfreesboro. The more than 150-year-old Vanderbilt University is another option for higher education in nearby Nashville.

Resources for Moving to Smyrna

Smyrna provides water and sewer services, gas service, plus curbside pickup of rubbish and recycling depending on your neighborhood. For electric service, contact Middle Tennessee Electric.

Smyrna offers a homey, safe environment with great amenities that make it a great fit for families, retirees, and the business community.