Lebanon, Tennessee: A Growing Market with Long-Term Potential

When people think of booming areas in Tennessee, Nashville usually tops the list. But just 25 miles east, the city of Lebanon has been making a name for itself as one of Middle Tennessee’s fastest-growing communities — combining affordability, access to Nashville’s job market, and a strong local economy.

Lebanon, Tennessee

Population and Job Market Growth

Lebanon’s population has expanded rapidly — up nearly 39% since 2020 — and was ranked the 12th fastest-growing city in the U.S. last year with an 8.9% annual growth rate. With over 42,000 residents today, it sits at the heart of Wilson County, one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing counties at more than 160,000 residents.

Lebanon has also emerged as a regional industrial and logistics hub. Major employers such as Under Armour’s distribution hub (≈1,500 employees), an Amazon fulfillment center (~1,000 jobs), and Cracker Barrel’s corporate headquarters (≈820 employees) provide a strong employment base. More recently, Lebanon has attracted new investments from Bridgetown Natural Foods, REI, NewBasis, and New Balance, further diversifying its economy.

Notably, NewBasis is investing $16.3 million to establish manufacturing operations at Alligood Industrial Park, creating nearly 250 new jobs (Wilson County Source). In addition, Georgia-Pacific is putting $20 million into its Lebanon plant (GP News), and Lochinvar recently announced a $35 million expansion of its Lebanon headquarters, expected to create 141 new jobs (TNECD).

Even at the federal level, Lebanon is benefitting: in August 2025, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced nearly $89 million in rural development investments across Tennessee, with Lebanon among the key recipients (USDA).

Housing Market Strength

Despite its rapid growth, Lebanon remains affordable compared to Nashville. As of mid-2025, the average home price in Lebanon is in the low $400Ks, roughly half the price of homes in Nashville where the average tops $850K..

Zillow data shows a 10-year trailing CAGR of 8.1% for Lebanon home values, highlighting the city’s long-term appreciation potential. This combination of relative affordability and consistent growth is a powerful draw for both renters and investors.

Education and Livability

Lebanon is served by the Wilson County School District, which is rated A- and ranks #10 of 122 districts in Tennessee with a 93% graduation rate (Niche). The area is also home to Cumberland University, a private institution in downtown Lebanon.

For families, Lebanon offers suburban comfort with access to quality schools, abundant green space, and a growing retail and dining scene. Migration trends show many newcomers — the top origin market being Los Angeles, CA — highlighting Lebanon’s growing national appeal.

A Lifestyle and Infrastructure Boom

Lebanon is expanding its amenities in line with population growth. The Cedar City Shopping Center continues to add national retailers, and downtown Lebanon’s revitalization projects have brought new restaurants, breweries, and cultural events.

Transportation access is another key advantage: Lebanon is the eastern terminus of the Music City Star commuter rail line, connecting directly into downtown Nashville. This infrastructure makes Lebanon uniquely positioned as both a commuter hub and a self-sustaining market.

Why Investors Are Watching Lebanon

For investors, Lebanon offers a compelling balance of:

  • Rapid population growth — nearly 40% since 2020, with one of the fastest U.S. growth rates

  • Affordable housing at ~50% of Nashville’s pricing, paired with 8.1% long-term value growth

  • A strong job base, anchored by Amazon, Cracker Barrel, and new industrial expansions

  • High-performing schools that attract long-term renters

Expanding amenities and federal/state investments boosting livability and stability

Visual Snapshot: Why Lebanon is Attractive to Investors

Investor Benefit Supporting Data
Population Growth Up ~39% since 2020; ranked 12th fastest-growing U.S. city
Job Market Major employers: Amazon, Cracker Barrel, Under Armour; new $35M+ expansions (Lochinvar, GP, NewBasis)
Housing Value Avg. home in low $400Ks vs. $850K in Nashville; 10-year CAGR: 8.1%
Schools Wilson County Schools rated A-; 93% grad rate; #10 in TN
Lifestyle & Access Music City Star commuter rail to Nashville; top inbound migration from Los Angeles

Coming Soon: An Investment Opportunity in Lebanon

Realbricks is preparing to list a brand-new single-family home in the Addison Park community of Lebanon on our marketplace — giving investors a chance to tap into one of Middle Tennessee’s strongest rental markets.

Lebanon, Tennessee

Property Highlights

  • Property Type: Single-family home
  • Size: ~2,000 sq. ft.
  • Layout: 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2-car garage
  • Construction: New build (completion late 2025) with open layouts and durable finishes
  • Energy Efficiency: Modern insulation, efficient HVAC, Low-E windows
  • Smart Home Features: Programmable thermostat, video doorbell, and smart lock
  • Outdoor Features: Covered patio, landscaped yard, exterior lighting
  • Projected Rent: $1,950–$2,050/month (est.)
  • Estimated Dividend Yield: ~4.5% (est.)
  • Purchase Price: $349,990
  • Timeline: Completion late 2025; leasing expected within 30 days after completion

Join the Waitlist

Don’t miss your chance to be among the first notified when Addison Park in Lebanon becomes available on the Realbricks marketplace.

Disclaimer: Investing in real estate involves risks, including the potential loss of capital. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. Investors should perform their own research and consult with financial professionals before making investment decisions.