Nashville, Tennessee, is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of Tennessee. Known as “Music City,” it’s a hub for the country music industry and home too numerous musical landmarks and a thriving cultural scene. As of January 19, 2026, Nashville continues to experience notable population growth and economic advancement.
The City of Nashville
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Nashville is the consolidated city-county government of Davidson County, Tennessee. This unique structure combines the functions of a city and a county, streamlining local governance. The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County operates under a mayor-council form of government.
As of 2025,the estimated population of Nashville-Davidson County is 716,980,making it the 22nd most populous city in the United States. U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts. This represents a considerable increase from the 2020 census count of 689,447.
Nashville’s Economy
Nashville’s economy is heavily influenced by healthcare, music, tourism, and technology. It serves as a major center for the healthcare industry, with numerous hospital systems and healthcare companies headquartered in the city. The music industry remains a cornerstone, attracting visitors and generating significant revenue.
In 2023, the Nashville area’s gross domestic product (GDP) was $86.3 billion. Bureau of Economic Analysis. Major employers include HCA Healthcare, Vanderbilt University and Medical Center, and Nissan North America.
Tourism in Nashville
Tourism is a vital component of Nashville’s economy, drawing millions of visitors annually. the city’s attractions include the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum,the Ryman Auditorium,and the Grand Ole Opry.
In 2023, Nashville welcomed 16.8 million visitors, generating $6.8 billion in economic impact.Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp.. this demonstrates the continued appeal of Nashville as a destination for leisure and business travelers.
Public Safety in Nashville
The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department (MNPD) is responsible for law enforcement within the city. The MNPD operates with a focus on community policing and crime prevention.
In 2024, the MNPD reported a total of 14,872 violent crimes.MNPD Crime Statistics. The city has experienced challenges with rising crime rates in recent years, prompting increased investment in public safety initiatives.
Education in Nashville
Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) is the public school district serving Nashville-Davidson County. MNPS operates over 160 schools, serving approximately 86,000 students.
The student-teacher ratio in MNPS is approximately 16:1 as of the 2023-2024 school year. MNPS Fast facts. The district is committed to providing a high-quality education to all students, with a focus on equity and access.
