How Far Is Brentwood, TN from Franklin? Nashville’s Nik Explains the Local Connection

by Nik Shewmaker

The two cities are only about 9 miles apart, connected directly by Interstate 65. The drive typically takes 10–15 minutes, depending on time of day and traffic.

If you’re moving to Brentwood, Tennessee or trying to decide between Brentwood and Franklin, understanding how closely these two communities are linked can help you make a smart housing decision.


📍 Distance & Drive Times

Route Distance Average Drive Time Description
I-65 South 9 miles 10–15 minutes Fastest, direct highway route
Franklin Road (US-31) 10 miles 15–20 minutes Scenic alternative, fewer lanes
Wilson Pike 11 miles 18–22 minutes Rural and quiet, passes luxury neighborhoods

Even during rush hour, the two cities remain closely connected. Most commuters use I-65, which features well-maintained interchanges at Concord Road, Moores Lane, and McEwen Drive.


🏙️ The Relationship Between Brentwood & Franklin

Although Brentwood and Franklin are separate cities, they’re often referred to together as the Williamson County corridor — a continuous stretch of upscale living, commerce, and community.

Both share:

  • Top-rated Williamson County Schools

  • High-end real estate

  • Corporate and healthcare employers

  • Luxury shopping and dining (Cool Springs Galleria serves both)

It’s not uncommon for families to live in Brentwood and work in Franklin, or vice versa. The two economies and communities are deeply interlinked.


🏡 Neighborhoods Along the Brentwood–Franklin Border

If you’re looking for convenience to both cities, these communities sit right in between:

  • Taramore – Elegant Brentwood neighborhood near Moores Lane with fast Franklin access

  • Inglehame Farms – Family-friendly area off Split Log Road

  • McGavock Farms – Classic Brentwood luxury near the Franklin line

  • Cool Springs East / McEwen Corridor – A transitional area with shops, offices, and upscale housing

This in-between zone is one of the most coveted real estate pockets in Middle Tennessee.


🛣️ Major Roads & Commute Routes

Brentwood and Franklin are designed for easy flow — most major roads run parallel to I-65, offering multiple north-south options.

1. I-65 (Primary Connector)

  • Six lanes wide with exits for both Brentwood and Franklin

  • Fastest route for work commutes or shopping trips

  • Average speed: 65 mph

2. Franklin Road (US-31)

  • Scenic, tree-lined corridor with historic homes and churches

  • Runs directly through both downtown Brentwood and downtown Franklin

  • Great for those who prefer a slower, more scenic drive

3. Wilson Pike

  • Quiet, two-lane road passing through estate properties and farmland

  • Popular for cyclists and locals who avoid highway traffic


🏢 Corporate & Commercial Access

Many major employers and shopping destinations are positioned between Brentwood and Franklin — especially in Cool Springs, a shared business district that blurs the line between the two cities.

Key points of interest along the corridor:

  • Cool Springs Galleria: 150+ stores and restaurants

  • McEwen Northside: upscale mixed-use office and dining district

  • Liberty Park and Mallory Lane: dense employment area

  • Tractor Supply Company HQ: technically in Brentwood, but serves both communities

If you work in healthcare, tech, finance, or logistics — chances are your commute will be easy from either city.


⏰ Traffic Patterns

Morning rush (7:00–8:30 AM) tends to flow northbound toward Nashville.
Evening rush (4:30–6:00 PM) flows southbound toward Franklin and Spring Hill.

Still, Brentwood-to-Franklin traffic is generally light compared to most metro areas. Even at peak times, the full drive rarely exceeds 25 minutes.

Local residents often describe it as “the easiest commute in Tennessee.”


🌳 Living Between the Two

Choosing a home in Brentwood offers proximity to Nashville while keeping Franklin’s amenities just minutes away.
Choosing Franklin gives you historic charm and local culture with Brentwood’s schools and employers nearby.

Either way, the short distance means you’ll naturally spend time in both cities — whether that’s dinner in Franklin or a morning meeting in Brentwood.

 

 

💬 Final Thoughts from Nashville’s Nik

Brentwood and Franklin aren’t rivals — they’re neighbors.
The short drive between them makes it easy to enjoy the best of both worlds: Brentwood’s polished suburbs and Franklin’s historic charm.

If you’re relocating to Middle Tennessee, I can help you decide which area fits your lifestyle, commute, and long-term goals best.

📲 Call or text: (615) 585-0022
📧 Email: NashvillesNik@gmail.com
🌐 Visit: www.NashvillesNik.com

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