Best Colleges in Tennessee

In addition to the quality academic programs they offer, the best colleges in Tennessee attract students due to the widespread cultural and career opportunities found in the state. In 2019, Tennessee was home to more than 228,000 students enrolled in higher education, including public colleges, private universities, and two-year community colleges.

The guide below features the best colleges in Tennessee based on quality, affordability, and campus experience. You can also learn more about the state’s economic and employment outlook, and what recreational activities Tennessee has to offer.

Tennessee is home to high-quality public and private institutions, including Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Graduates have a good chance of finding work opportunities in the state, as Tennessee’s economy continues to expand. U.S. News & World Report ranked Tennessee in the top 15 in terms of economic growth and in the top 10 most affordable states.

Tennessee features a rich culture, especially in the metro areas of Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville. The state hosts professional sports teams like the Tennessee Titans (football), Memphis Grizzlies (basketball), and Nashville Predators (hockey).

Nashville, also known as Music City, is home to many historical music venues such as the Grand Ole Opry. Memphis also has a deeply musical past, with iconic recording studios such as Sun Studio attracting music buffs and tourists.

The state’s moderate climate also serves as a draw for students, professionals, and families. Its winter temperatures rarely dip below 30 degrees, while summers are long and warm.

Likely as a result of this friendly weather, Tennessee residents love to get outdoors, and the Great Smoky Mountains region in the eastern part of the state offers hiking, biking, and kayaking. The state’s cities emphasize green spaces, allowing residents to enjoy the outdoors close to where they live.

According to the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development, the state had a total employment of more than 3.12 million in 2019. The department projects more than 4 million job openings over the next decade

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state’s average annual salary was $45,650 in 2019. Along with a relatively low cost of living, workers in Tennessee can find numerous employment opportunities that provide strong salaries and career growth potential.

Tennessee’s top industries for employment include education, agriculture, automotive production, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. These industries need college-educated professionals to drive innovation and take on management and leadership roles.