How Far Is Brentwood, TN from Nashville? Nashville’s Nik Explains the Commute, Traffic, and Access

by Nik Shewmaker

How far is Brentwood, Tennessee from Nashville?
Brentwood sits just 11 miles south of downtown Nashville, offering a quick and easy commute via Interstate 65. Depending on traffic and time of day, the drive typically takes 20 to 30 minutes — making it one of the most convenient suburbs for professionals who work in or around the city.

If you’re moving to Brentwood, TN, this short commute is one of the biggest lifestyle perks — you get the peace and privacy of suburban living while staying fully connected to the energy of Nashville.


📍 Distance & Drive Time Overview

Route Distance Average Drive Time (Normal Traffic) Peak Hour Drive Time
I-65 North (Main Route) 11 miles 20–25 minutes 30–40 minutes
Franklin Road (Alt. Route) 12 miles 25–30 minutes 35–45 minutes
Old Hickory Blvd + Franklin Rd Combo 13 miles 25–35 minutes 40+ minutes

Most commuters take I-65 North, which runs directly from Brentwood into downtown Nashville.
This route passes by Maryland Farms, 100 Oaks, and Wedgewood-Houston, with multiple exits that lead into different parts of the city.


🕓 Commute Timing Breakdown

Time of Day Typical Drive Time to Downtown Nashville
6:30–7:30 AM 20–25 minutes
7:30–9:00 AM 30–40 minutes
9:00 AM–3:00 PM 18–22 minutes
4:00–6:00 PM 30–40 minutes
6:00 PM–10:00 PM 15–20 minutes

You’ll notice the difference outside of rush hour — midday and evening commutes are generally smooth and predictable.

“Most of my clients working downtown tell me they’d rather drive 20 minutes from Brentwood than sit through urban traffic all day in Nashville.” — Nashville’s Nik


🏙️ Major Destinations & Commute Times

Destination Distance from Brentwood Center Drive Time
Downtown Nashville (Broadway) 11 miles 25 mins
Vanderbilt University 9 miles 20 mins
The Gulch 10 miles 22 mins
BNA Airport 18 miles 25–30 mins
Cool Springs (Franklin) 8 miles 12–15 mins

Brentwood is strategically located — close to both major work hubs (downtown and Cool Springs) and only about 25 minutes from the airport.


🚦 Traffic & Navigation Tips

Brentwood drivers benefit from excellent infrastructure.
The city has well-maintained roads, multiple access points to I-65, and coordinated traffic signals that reduce congestion.

Top Commuter Tips:

  • Leave before 7:15 AM to skip the heaviest traffic flow into downtown.

  • Use Franklin Road as a backup if there’s an accident on I-65.

  • Waze and Google Maps both perform well here due to consistent cell coverage.

  • Reverse commuters heading from Nashville to Brentwood enjoy almost no delays.

Peak congestion zones:

  • I-65 between Old Hickory Blvd and Wedgewood Ave

  • Concord Road on-ramp during morning rush

  • Harding Place exits

“The best part about Brentwood’s commute? You can live on an acre of land, yet still make it to a downtown meeting before your second cup of coffee.” — Nashville’s Nik


🚆 Public Transit Options

Public transportation in Williamson County is limited, but improving.

Available Options:

  • WeGo Public Transit: runs commuter buses to and from Nashville, with limited stops along Franklin Road.

  • Rideshare Services: Uber, Lyft, and local carpool programs are widely available.

  • Future Plans: Regional transit expansion discussions continue for I-65, but no confirmed light rail system as of 2025.

Most residents rely on personal vehicles, which is typical for suburban Middle Tennessee.


🧭 Why the Commute Works for Brentwood Residents

Brentwood’s proximity to Nashville allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds:

  • Work in the city — Nashville’s growing job market includes healthcare, tech, music, and finance.

  • Live in peace — Large lots, quiet neighborhoods, and elite schools make Brentwood ideal for balance.

Perk How It Benefits You
Short commute More family and leisure time
Easy interstate access Travel and business convenience
Lower stress Healthier daily rhythm
Reliable roads Safer driving and fewer delays

 

 

💬 Final Thoughts from Nashville’s Nik

If you’re relocating to Middle Tennessee, Brentwood offers an unbeatable commute — close enough to enjoy everything Nashville offers, yet quiet enough to feel like home.

It’s one of the few suburbs where luxury living and convenience actually overlap.

If you’d like to explore homes that make your daily commute even easier, I’d love to show you what Brentwood has to offer.

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

Categories

Share on Social Media

GET MORE INFORMATION

Name
Phone*
Message