Jackson, TN Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Jackson, TN: Everything You Need to Know

Jackson in western Tennessee is known for popularizing a unique brand of mixed rock and blues and as the site of the first Hard Rock Cafe in America.

The Local History

The city was founded in 1821 and initially called Alexandria. In 1822, it was renamed Jackson after Andrew Jackson, a hero of the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812. He became the seventh U.S. president in 1828. During the Civil War, Jackson was used as a supply point by both Confederate and Union troops. In December 1862, Confederate Brig. Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest led a raid into the area to disrupt the Union forces’ supply lines. Forrest and his men fought federal soldiers stationed at Salem Cemetery in Jackson.

Things to Do in Jackson

Visit the Legends of Tennessee Music Museum, which consists of a 70-seat theater and a museum featuring artifacts that tell the story of music legends Carl Perkins, Sonny Boy Williamson, Tina Turner, and others. You’ll learn about Jackson native Isaac Tigrett, who built America’s first Hard Rock Café in his hometown in 1983. For a change of pace, head over to Pinson Mounds State Archeological Park where you’ll see ancient mounds and earthen enclosures built by Native Americans as burial grounds, ceremonial altars, and temporary habitation areas. 

The Cost of Living in Jackson

A small city like Jackson (population: 67,191) is going to be easier on your bank account than bigger cities. Jackson’s cost of living rate, food, and housing costs are 22.5%, 26.2%, and 34.1% lower than the national average. The median gross rent in the city is $848. There’s an added bonus: Tennessee has no income tax on salaries and wages. It levies a 2% rate on all income from interest and dividends. 

Know Your Neighborhoods

Downtown Jackson’s apartments, lofts, and single-family houses are attracting newcomers of all stripes, from young professionals to retirees. Current development projects cater to downtown’s growing residential community by adding walking and biking trails and green space. In the suburbs, check out Medina and Gadsden, both within commuting distance of Jackson and known for their highly-rated public schools. Medina residents love their new parks, ball fields, and tennis courts.

Weather and Climate

Jackson receives an average of 54 inches of rain per year compared with the national average of 38 inches. But you don’t have to worry about snow. The city gets only about four inches of snow annually, well below the U.S. average of 28 inches. Tornadoes can be prevalent in Tennessee. In May 2003, a tornado struck Jackson and killed 11 people. It also caused heavy damage downtown.