For Middle Tennessee, the question is not, “If we build it, will they come?” It’s more like, “How will we build it before they come?” During the next 20 years, Middle Tennessee’s 10-county region will absorb 1 million new residents. That’s twice the growth rate of the rest of the nation.

But it’s not just the sheer number of new residents that will reshape the landscape of cities, towns and countryside. Middle Tennessee’s new neighbors will be a more diverse demographic mix than the region has ever seen, bringing different needs, desires and expectations for housing, work, entertainment and transportation.

Young people, seniors, singles and childless households will form a much bigger share of the market, creating more demand for smaller housing units and rentals.

They’ll also demand more convenience and access to services, and expect a range of transit options not currently available.

Nashville-Davidson County, currently the nation’s seventh fastest-growing city, will get about 200,000 new residents, and is pursuing high-density development and infill downtown, along its pikes and in close-in suburbs.

READ MORE