Cookeville & the Upper Cumberland

Cookeville, TN Real Estate

Current housing market data, neighborhood guides, and resources for buyers, renters, and investors in Cookeville and Putnam County.

$285,000

Median Home Price

Putnam County, 2026

$1,050/mo

Avg. Rent (2BR)

Cookeville metro area

+4.2%

Price Change (YoY)

Compared to 2025

28 days

Days on Market

Median, single-family

Cookeville Neighborhoods

Downtown Cookeville

Urban / Walkable

Historic district with walkable access to restaurants, the Cookeville Depot, and weekend events. Mix of renovated bungalows and new infill construction.

Buy: $250K–$500K
Rent: $900–$1,400/mo

West Cookeville

Suburban / Family

Established neighborhoods with good schools, proximity to shopping on Willow Ave, and easy access to I-40. High demand for families.

Buy: $220K–$380K
Rent: $950–$1,300/mo

North Cookeville / Algood

Growing / Affordable

Fastest-growing corridor with new subdivisions and affordable starter homes. Short drive to downtown and Tennessee Tech.

Buy: $180K–$300K
Rent: $800–$1,150/mo

Tennessee Tech Area

University / Rental

High rental demand from TTU students and faculty. Strong income potential for investors. Mix of older homes and student-oriented apartments.

Buy: $200K–$320K
Rent: $700–$1,100/mo

East Cookeville

Suburban / Mixed

Quieter residential areas with large lots and mature trees. Good value for buyers seeking space without leaving the city.

Buy: $195K–$340K
Rent: $850–$1,200/mo

South Cookeville

Mixed / Commercial

Transitional area with affordable options. Close to Cookeville Regional and commercial corridors on S Jefferson Ave.

Buy: $170K–$290K
Rent: $750–$1,050/mo

* Price ranges are estimates based on recent market data and may not reflect current listings.

Market Insights

First-Time Buyers

  • ·Tennessee's Great Choice Home Loan program offers below-market rates for qualifying buyers
  • ·Putnam County median home prices remain well below the state average (~$330K)
  • ·Down payment assistance up to $15,000 available through THDA Great Choice Plus
  • ·FHA loans popular locally - 3.5% down with qualifying credit score

Renters

  • ·Average 2BR rent in Cookeville is $1,050/mo - well below Nashville ($1,700+)
  • ·Utilities are typically NOT included; expect $150–$200/mo for power, gas, water
  • ·Tennessee has no rent control - landlords may raise rent with proper notice
  • ·Most leases run 12 months; month-to-month often available for a premium

Investors

  • ·Strong rental demand from TTU's 12,000+ students and growing medical workforce
  • ·Cap rates in Cookeville typically range 6–8% for residential rentals
  • ·Short-term rentals (Airbnb) allowed; check Cookeville city zoning for STR rules
  • ·Property taxes are among the lowest in Tennessee - Putnam County rate ~0.5%

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