The Best Neighborhoods in Memphis to Raise a Family

When you are looking for the best neighborhoods in the greater Memphis area to live and raise a family, you're probably looking for low crime rates, good shopping, other nice amenities, and quality schools. Described here are some of the better neighborhoods filling those needs in the greater Memphis area.

Collierville. With a population of about 45,000 people, this historical area has a small town feel with natural surroundings. The school system is award winning. The area is abundant with amenities appealing to people of all types, especially those raising a family. Among the amenities are more than 300 acres of parklands spread throughout 11 parks. There are 25 athletic fields and more than 6 miles of walking trails. Built in the late 1800s, Collierville has a town square that remains the focal point of the community today. Collierville really has it all. The community offers world class shopping at venues such as the Carriage-Crossing Mall along with antique stores and fine dining. Average home prices begin at about $291,600.

Cordova. Located in the suburbs of east Memphis, this district of 85,500 people has something to offer everyone. It's a combination of office space, churches, small businesses, shopping centers, big-box retailers, and restaurants. It is also home to the world famous Shelby Farms Park, the nation's largest urban park. The park features fields, wooded territories, jogging, biking, hiking, and even horseback riding. Among the great features are the Wolf River and Patriot Park. Average home prices begin at about $136,000.

Covington. This is a smaller community of about 8,500 people. Still, it's located in Tipton County, which is one of the fastest growing areas in Tennessee. It's located 18 miles from Memphis and serves as the county seat. The area includes several parks, of which Cobb-Parr Memorial Park offers the most unique features. It is home to local organized sports leagues and other special events. One important event is the Tipton County BBQ Festival that is held each fall. Part of the school system includes Tennessee Technology Center and Dyersburg State Community College. The medium home cost is about $138,100.

Olive Branch Mississippi. This community has a population of about 34,500. CNN lists it as among the best place to live in the country. The school system is dedicated to providing world-class academics in a safe learning environment along with exceptional extra-curricular programs. It's about a 15-minute drive to the Memphis International Airport. The park and recreation department runs youth sports programs, chair aerobics for seniors, more active aerobics for others, and has a large turnout for people enjoying playing cards outdoors. Average home price is about $158,000.

Bartlett. This is another fast growing area with a population of about 55,700. Bartlett has 26 parks including a $5.5 million public recreation center. This area also has a performing arts center and a community theater. The school system is considered to be excellent. Other features of the community include a new hospital, many churches, multiple shopping centers, and several professional buildings. Home prices vary here more than in most places in the greater Memphis area. The average range begins at about $87,100 and goes up to about $137,500.

The Memphis area is a great area for everyone. Whether you're raising a family, want to be close to the hot downtown nightlife scene, or are looking to retire to a southern climate, Memphis needs to be on your radar screen.

Author bio: Brian Kline has been investing in real estate for more than 30 years and writing about real estate investing for seven years. He also draws upon 25 plus years of business experience including 12 years as a manager at Boeing Aircraft Company. Brian currently lives at Lake Cushman, Washington. A vacation destination, a few short miles from a national forest in the Olympic Mountains with the Pacific Ocean a couple of miles in the opposite direction.