Looking for Jobs in Murfreesboro and Rutherford County, TN?

Nathan Lambrecht

Rutherford County is truly the heart of Tennessee, located in the middle of the state just southeast of Nashville. It’s a region that continues to flourish, as Tennessee residents move to the area in search of bigger opportunities and out-of-state transplants make their way here to experience the Southern culture that’s made Middle Tennessee famous. If you’re looking for jobs in Murfreesboro and Rutherford County or simply looking for a fresh start, here’s what you need to know about this thriving region.

1. Find Plenty of Outstanding Career Options

Anyone looking for a smart career choice has plenty of industries to choose from in Rutherford County. Attractive jobs in Murfreesboro, Smyrna and La Vergne are available in advanced manufacturing, education, health care, construction, supply chain management and technology.

You don’t need to leave Rutherford County if you want a career with a big-name company. There are nearly 20 major employers here that each have more than 1,000 workers, including household names like Amazon, Bridgestone, General Mills, Nissan and Taylor Farms. 

2. Enjoy a Life of Leisure 

Livability assets in Rutherford County include outdoor recreation destinations such as Percy Priest Lake, a picturesque reservoir renowned for its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings, where people can fish, boat, kayak and enjoy a day in the sun with friends.

Also adding to the local quality of life are charming downtowns, as well as a thriving arts-and-culture scene, highlighted by live music venues, museums and community theaters. Middle Tennessee State University, which produces Grammy Award winners, also contributes to the region’s creative talent and thriving music scene. 

3. Discover a Blissful Mix of Urban and Rural Living 

An average of 26 people move into Rutherford County every day, and for good reason. This vibrant region in Middle Tennessee blends Southern charm with a strong 21st-century economy. Residents have the option to live in larger cities and towns like Murfreesboro, Smyrna, and La Vergne, or charming rural communities such as Readyville, Eagleville, Almaville, Blackman, Christiana, and Lascassas. A sense of community is why many people choose Rutherford County to live, work and play. 

4. Score an Excellent Education Here 

Residents can receive two free years of college and training at Motlow State Community College and Tennessee College of Applied Technology, thanks to the popular Tennessee Promise program. Also, MTSU has more than 20,000 enrolled students and over 140 academic programs. There are nine other colleges and universities within a 45-minute drive of Rutherford County. In addition to Tennessee Promise, the Tennessee ReConnect and the Hope Scholarship programs can also help students with postsecondary expenses. 

5. You Can Afford to Live in Rutherford County 

Rutherford County residents can enjoy an affordable cost of living – especially in comparison to neighboring Nashville. If you’re looking for a house, the average home value in Murfreesboro is $412,000, $396,000 in Smyrna and $345,000 in La Vergne (Zillow, May 2024).

Entrepreneurs can take advantage of the lower costs of doing business (including no state income tax) and state financial incentives, and they can also utilize helpful programs through MTSU’s Small Business Development Center and the Jennings A. Jones College of Business, as well as through the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce.