With its friendly charm, abundant land and low cost of living, residential growth is on the rise throughout Maury County, especially in the cities of Columbia and Spring Hill. From retirees to growing families, the area attracts those who may want the option of living near a big city, but also crave the advantages of a small town, such as tight-knit communities, walkable neighborhoods and more.

Located 30 miles from Nashville, the city of Spring Hill, which was recently named one of the fastest growing communities in the nation by BusinessWeek, provides a small-town feel with big-city amenities. Spring Hill's expansive farmland and historic homes offer a pleasant contrast to the busy shopping centers and recreational activities like The Crossings of Spring Hill shopping center or the King's Creek Golf Club.

Another quickly-expanding city in Maury County is Columbia, Tenn. Columbia residents also enjoy a community-centered atmosphere. Outdoor activities are abundant with the Maury County Park spanning 242 acres of the city. Community events like Mule Day bring the town together and attract visitors from across the country to enjoy the pleasures of a small town.

The cost is a major plus to living in Maury County.

“Homes are just so much cheaper here than in Williamson County," says Cyril Evers of Evers & Jones Realty Co. in Columbia. "Buyers can get more home for the money."

Home prices begin around $135,000 and can go up to $400,000 with huge homes on large areas of land.