Whether you’re just getting out on your own or finally coming into your own, Memphis is a great place to spread your wings or even think about putting down roots. Not all young professionals have the same aspirations, which makes Memphis’ diverse neighborhoods perfect for picking a place with your vibe — whether you’re a little more Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll or a little more Grind City.
What are the best neighborhoods in Memphis for young professionals? Find out in this handy guide to the Bluff City’s hippest ’hoods:
Cooper-Young — LGBTQuirky Fun and Vintage Bungalows
Small houses and big personalities dot this diverse neighborhood of 1920s bungalows, lively pubs, trendy restaurants, and independent shops. Known for its LGBTQ community, Cooper-Young is also home to young progressives, a vibrant arts community, and Phillip Ashley Chocolates, which hosts the very popular Cooper-Young Festival each year.
Downtown and South Main — Upscale and Artsy
Apartments and night life options are abundant Downtown, which makes this among the best places to live in Memphis for a young professional. Filled with office workers during the day, Downtown turns into one of the south’s most famous entertainment districts by night. Beer, barbecue, and blues dominate Beale Street, where the touristy vibe can build a little fun unpredictability into any evening if you are so inclined.
Just a block south of Beale Street is one square mile of hipster haven, also known as the South Main Arts District. This area is transforming thanks to much of its historic warehouse space being converted into condos and retail space. Despite some of the steeper rents in Memphis, South Main remains popular with musicians and artists — perhaps for the monthly Trolley Night, a music, food, and art-filled night billed as the longest-running street festival in Memphis.
High Point Terrace — Fertile Ground for Mom-and-Pops
Young entrepreneurs could do a lot worse than choosing the High Point Terrace neighborhood to live and work. This historic district close to the city’s heart is known for its long-standing support of local businesses. Setting up shop here can provide burgeoning retailers and service providers with a built-in customer base willing to help their neighbors. Plus, the Shelby Farms Greenline is a popular trail for recreation that was converted from the rail bed that used to be the district’s main feature.
The Edge — Get In on the Ground Gloor
The Edge District, tucked between Downtown and Midtown, was just a few years ago a largely abandoned commercial and industrial sector. Now awash with investor cash, this slender stretch of land along Madison Avenue is booming with development, giving nearby trailblazing recording house Sun Studio the company it deserves. Young professionals are flocking to the Edge’s new developments nearby many of the education and medical jobs in Memphis. Some of its neighbors include:
- Jude Children’s Research Hospital/ALSAC
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center
- Southwest Tennessee Community College
- Baptist College of Health Sciences
- Memphis Bioworks Foundation
- Regional One Health
- Southern College of Optometry
- Southwest Tennessee Community College
- Methodist/Le Bonheur Healthcare
Colonial Acres — Your Starter Home Awaits
Located in the city’s southeastern section, Colonial Acres just might be your best bet if you’re looking to settle down with a family thanks to its wide array of affordable homes. According to the most recent data, the median home price in the neighborhood was roughly $225,000, putting homeownership within range for many young professionals.
Shady Grove — Luxurious Living
Also known as White Station, this neighborhood on the city’s east side has a number of large, luxurious homes where up-and-coming young professionals can put down roots. Its proximity to the downtown area means everything Memphis has to offer will be right at your fingertips.
Harbor Town — Celebrate Your Inner Urbanist
Harbor Town was conceived and developed in the 1980s as a “new urbanist” oasis on Mud Island, a 132-acre sandbar in the middle of the Mississippi River. Popular with affluent Memphians, including politicians and past and current members of the NBA’s Grizzlies, Harbor Town is noted for its stunning views of the river and downtown. Upscale townhomes and condos dominate the housing stock, but there are also single-family homes. An added attraction is the Mud Island River Park, a 2,000-foot-long replica of the Lower Mississippi River, complete with paddle boating in the “Gulf of Mexico.”
Ready for Your Memphis Move?
We hope this list of the best neighborhoods in Memphis for young professionals has given you some idea of what might be the best Memphis spot for you. Once you’ve made up your mind, call Big League Movers when you’re ready to move.
