Nashville, Tennessee's capital and Music City USA, sits at 182 meters (597 ft) above sea level on the Cumberland River. The city occupies rolling terrain in the Nashville Basin, surrounded by higher ridges.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Lowest point (Cumberland River) | 120 m |
|---|---|
| Highest point | 290 m |
| Coordinates | 36.1627° N, 86.7816° W |
| Country / Region | Tennessee, USA |
Elevations by District
| District / Area | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Downtown / Broadway | 130–155 m |
| The Gulch / Midtown | 140–170 m |
| East Nashville | 145–185 m |
| Green Hills | 200–245 m |
| Brentwood / South | 210–260 m |
| Hillwood / Belle Meade | 195–250 m |
Compare: Nashville and Nearby Cities
| City | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Memphis, TN | 90 m |
| Knoxville, TN | 298 m |
| Chattanooga, TN | 208 m |
| Louisville, KY | 149 m |
Interesting Facts About Nashville's Elevation
- Nashville's Cumberland River at 120 m is particularly flood-prone – the 2010 flood caused $2 billion in damage when the river rose over 14 metres.
- The Grand Ole Opry, opened in 1925, sits at about 145 m near the Cumberland River.
- Nashville's middle Tennessee location gives it a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Elevation of Nashville
What is the elevation of Nashville, Tennessee?
Nashville sits at approximately 182 metres (597 feet) above sea level. The city centre along the Cumberland River is lower, around 120–150 m.
Does Nashville flood?
Yes, Nashville is flood-prone, particularly the lower areas near the Cumberland River. The catastrophic 2010 flood is one of the worst in the city's history.
Is Nashville hilly?
Nashville has moderately rolling terrain in the Nashville Basin. The surrounding Highland Rim rises 200–300 m higher than the basin floor, creating a natural boundary around the metro area.