Thompson's Station TN vs Spring Hill TN

Thompson's Station, TN, and Spring Hill, TN are two towns located in Williamson County, Tennessee. Both towns are growing rapidly, with new developments and businesses popping up regularly. While they share some similarities, there are also some notable differences between the two towns that make them unique.

Thompson's Station is a smaller town with a population of around 5,000 people. It has a small-town feel and is known for its historic sites, such as the Thompson's Station Battlefield. On the other hand, Spring Hill is a larger town with a population of around 40,000 people. It has a more suburban feel and is known for its shopping centers and restaurants.

When it comes to deciding which town is best for you, there are several factors to consider. These include things like cost of living, schools, job opportunities, and community amenities. By taking a closer look at these factors, you can make an informed decision about which town is the right fit for you and your family.

Geographical Overview

Location and Boundaries

Thompson's Station and Spring Hill are two neighboring towns located in Williamson County, Tennessee, USA. Thompson's Station is located about 25 miles south of Nashville, while Spring Hill is situated about 30 miles south of Nashville. The two towns are adjacent to each other and share a common border.

Thompson's Station is bordered by Franklin to the north, Spring Hill to the east, and Columbia to the south. Spring Hill is bordered by Thompson's Station to the west, Columbia to the south, and Maury County to the east.

Topography and Climate

Thompson's Station and Spring Hill are both situated in the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee. The area is characterized by its lush greenery, scenic vistas, and mild climate. The topography of the area is dominated by hills, valleys, and plateaus, with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,000 feet above sea level.

The climate in Thompson's Station and Spring Hill is classified as humid subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters. The average temperature in the summer months is around 85°F, while the average temperature in the winter months is around 45°F. The area receives an average of 50 inches of rainfall per year, with most of the precipitation occurring in the spring and fall months.

Overall, Thompson's Station and Spring Hill offer a picturesque and comfortable living environment, with a mild climate and beautiful natural surroundings.

Historical Context

Thompson's Station History

Thompson's Station is a small town located in Williamson County, Tennessee. The town was founded in 1780 by settlers who migrated from North Carolina. It was named after a local family, the Thompsons, who were prominent landowners in the area.

During the Civil War, Thompson's Station played a significant role in the Battle of Thompson's Station, which took place on March 5, 1863. Union forces, led by Colonel John Coburn, attacked Confederate troops, but were ultimately defeated. The battle resulted in the deaths of over 300 Union soldiers and the capture of nearly 1,200 others.

After the war, Thompson's Station became a popular stop along Tennessee's Great Train Trail. The town continued to grow and develop over the years, but has managed to maintain its small-town charm.

Spring Hill History

Spring Hill is a city located in Maury and Williamson counties, Tennessee. The city was established in 1809 and was named after a nearby spring and hill.

During the Civil War, Spring Hill played a role in the Battle of Spring Hill, which took place on November 29, 1864. Union forces, led by General John Schofield, were able to escape Confederate troops, led by General John Bell Hood, and continue their retreat to Nashville. The battle resulted in relatively few casualties, but was a significant moment in the Civil War.

After the war, Spring Hill continued to grow and develop. Today, it is a thriving city with a population of over 40,000. The city is home to a number of historic sites, including the Rippavilla Plantation and the Saturn V Rocket replica at the Northfield Workforce Development and Conference Center.

Demographics and Population

Population Size

Thompson's Station, TN has a population of 7,426 people, according to the 2022 5-year American Community Survey. On the other hand, Spring Hill, TN has a population of 50,005 people as of the 2020 Census. Spring Hill's population is more than six times larger than that of Thompson's Station.

Demographic Composition

Both Thompson's Station and Spring Hill have a majority White population, with 91.3% and 83.7% respectively. Thompson's Station has a slightly larger Black or African American population at 4.9%, compared to Spring Hill's 3.7%. The Hispanic or Latino population is also higher in Thompson's Station at 7.1%, while Spring Hill has a lower percentage at 4.1%.

In terms of age distribution, both towns have a similar percentage of residents under 18 years old, with Thompson's Station at 29.1% and Spring Hill at 28.2%. However, Spring Hill has a higher percentage of residents aged 18-64 at 63.4%, compared to Thompson's Station's 54.8%. Thompson's Station has a higher percentage of residents aged 65 and over at 16.1%, compared to Spring Hill's 8.4%.

Both towns have a relatively high median household income, with Spring Hill at $89,163 and Thompson's Station at $110,625. The poverty rate in Thompson's Station is lower than Spring Hill's, with 2.6% and 3.5% respectively.

Overall, while both Thompson's Station and Spring Hill have a majority White population and relatively high median household incomes, Spring Hill has a significantly larger population and a slightly more diverse demographic composition.

Economic Landscape

Employment and Industry

Thompson's Station and Spring Hill are both located in Williamson County, which is known for its strong economy and low unemployment rate. According to City-Data, the unemployment rate in Williamson County is 2.5%, which is lower than the national average of 3.7%.

The top industries in Williamson County are healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Major employers in the area include Nissan North America, Williamson Medical Center, and Mars Petcare.

Thompson's Station and Spring Hill are both experiencing rapid growth, which is creating new job opportunities. As of 2021, the median household income in Thompson's Station is $131,250, while in Spring Hill it is $85,000, according to Niche and BestPlaces. However, it is important to note that the cost of living in Thompson's Station is higher than in Spring Hill, which will be discussed further in the next subsection.

Cost of Living Comparison

When it comes to the cost of living, Thompson's Station is more expensive than Spring Hill. According to BestPlaces and Niche, the cost of living in Thompson's Station is 47% higher than the national average, while in Spring Hill it is only 8% higher. The biggest factor contributing to the higher cost of living in Thompson's Station is housing. The median home price in Thompson's Station is $860,000, compared to $629,900 in Spring Hill.

Despite the higher cost of living in Thompson's Station, many residents feel that the benefits of living in a smaller, more affluent community outweigh the higher expenses. Thompson's Station offers a high quality of life, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community. Spring Hill, on the other hand, is a more affordable option for those who want to live in Williamson County but don't want to pay the high prices of Thompson's Station.

Overall, both Thompson's Station and Spring Hill offer strong economies and low unemployment rates, but they differ in terms of cost of living and median household income.

Education and Schools

School Districts

Thompson's Station and Spring Hill are both served by the Williamson County School District, which is one of the top-rated school districts in Tennessee. Within the district, there are several schools that serve both towns, including Independence High School, Spring Station Middle School, and Longview Elementary School.

Independence High School, located in Thompson's Station, has received high rankings from both US News and Public School Review. It has a student population of over 2,000 and boasts an overall score of 92.13 out of 100. Spring Station Middle School, located in Spring Hill, has also been ranked in the top 10% of all schools in Tennessee for overall test scores by Public School Review.

Higher Education Opportunities

For those seeking higher education opportunities, there are several options within driving distance of Thompson's Station and Spring Hill. Columbia State Community College, located in nearby Columbia, TN, offers a variety of associate degree programs and technical certificates.

Additionally, Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is located just 30 miles north of Thompson's Station and Spring Hill in Murfreesboro, TN. MTSU is the largest undergraduate university in Tennessee and offers over 300 academic programs, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.

Overall, both Thompson's Station and Spring Hill offer access to top-rated schools within the Williamson County School District, as well as opportunities for higher education at nearby colleges and universities.

Real Estate and Housing

Housing Market Trends

Thompson's Station and Spring Hill are two cities that have seen a significant increase in their population in recent years. This growth has led to a rise in demand for housing, and as a result, both cities have experienced an increase in the number of new construction projects.

The median home value in Thompson's Station is $1,350,000, while the median home value in Spring Hill is $629,900. However, it is important to note that these figures are subject to change depending on various factors, such as the location, size, and condition of the property.

Thompson's Station has a mix of older and newer homes, with many of the newer homes being built in the last decade. On the other hand, Spring Hill has a higher percentage of newer homes, with many of them being built in the last five years. This means that there are more options for homebuyers who are looking for a newer home in Spring Hill.

Property Value Comparisons

When it comes to property values, Thompson's Station tends to be more expensive than Spring Hill. However, this can vary depending on the location and type of property. For example, a single-family home in Thompson's Station may be more expensive than a townhome in Spring Hill.

The median listing price for a home in Thompson's Station is $1,199,900, while the median listing price for a home in Spring Hill is $389,900. This indicates that, on average, homes in Thompson's Station are more expensive than homes in Spring Hill.

Overall, both Thompson's Station and Spring Hill offer a variety of housing options for homebuyers. While Thompson's Station tends to be more expensive, it also has a mix of older and newer homes. On the other hand, Spring Hill has a higher percentage of newer homes and may be a more affordable option for those looking to buy a home.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Recreational Facilities

Both Thompson's Station and Spring Hill offer a variety of recreational facilities for residents to enjoy. Thompson's Station has several parks, including Sarah Benson Park and Thompson's Station Park, which offer playgrounds, walking trails, and sports fields. The town also has a community center that hosts events and programs for all ages.

Spring Hill has several parks as well, including Harvey Park and Evans Park, which offer playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas. The city also has a community center that offers fitness classes, sports programs, and other activities for residents.

Both towns are located near several golf courses, including the King's Creek Golf Club and the Country Club of Spring Hill. Additionally, the nearby Percy Warner Park offers hiking trails and equestrian facilities.

Shopping and Dining

Thompson's Station and Spring Hill both offer a variety of shopping and dining options. Thompson's Station has a small downtown area with several locally-owned shops and restaurants, including Circa Grill and Southern Tre Steakhouse. The town also has a Kroger and a Dollar General for convenient grocery shopping.

Spring Hill has a larger commercial area with several big-box stores, including Walmart and Target. The city also has a variety of dining options, including national chains like Chick-fil-A and local favorites like Delta Bound. Additionally, the nearby Cool Springs Galleria offers high-end shopping and dining options.

Overall, both Thompson's Station and Spring Hill offer a comfortable and convenient lifestyle with plenty of recreational facilities and shopping and dining options to suit any resident's needs.

Transportation and Accessibility

Thompson's Station and Spring Hill are both primarily car-dependent towns with limited public transportation options. However, Thompson's Station offers bike-friendly roads for those who prefer a more active mode of transportation.

Public Transportation

The Music City Star commuter rail and MTA bus system are the only public transportation options available in Thompson's Station. The rail system connects Thompson's Station to Nashville and surrounding areas, while the bus system provides transportation within the town and to nearby cities.

Spring Hill also has limited public transportation options, with the only available service being the Spring Hill Flex Route. This service operates on weekdays and provides transportation within the city limits.

Major Roads and Highways

Thompson's Station is strategically located between Franklin and Spring Hill, making it easily accessible via major roads and highways. The town's accessibility to I-65 and I-840 makes it a perfect spot for residents who value both tranquility and connectivity.

Spring Hill is also easily accessible via major roads and highways, including I-65 and State Route 840. The town is located about 30 miles south of Nashville and is a popular commuter town for those who work in the city.

Overall, both Thompson's Station and Spring Hill offer limited public transportation options and are primarily car-dependent towns. However, their strategic locations and accessibility via major roads and highways make them ideal for residents who value connectivity.

Local Governance

Government Structure

Thompson's Station and Spring Hill are both located in Williamson County, Tennessee. Thompson's Station operates under a Mayor-Council form of government, with the Mayor serving as the chief executive officer and the Board of Aldermen serving as the legislative body. The Mayor is elected by popular vote, while the Board of Aldermen is composed of four members who are elected by the residents of the town.

Spring Hill, on the other hand, operates under a City Manager-Council form of government. The City Manager is appointed by the City Council and serves as the chief administrative officer of the city. The City Council is composed of six members who are elected by the residents of the city.

Public Services

Both Thompson's Station and Spring Hill provide a range of public services to their residents, including police and fire protection, public works, and parks and recreation. The Thompson's Station Police Department is staffed by six full-time officers and several part-time officers, while the Spring Hill Police Department is staffed by 32 full-time officers and several part-time officers.

Thompson's Station contracts with the Williamson County Fire and Rescue Department for fire protection, while Spring Hill has its own fire department staffed by 22 full-time firefighters. Both towns provide a range of public works services, including road maintenance, trash collection, and water and sewer services.

In terms of parks and recreation, Thompson's Station operates Sarah Benson Park, a 27-acre park that includes walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Spring Hill operates several parks and recreational facilities, including Harvey Park, Evans Park, and the Longview Recreation Center.

Community Events and Culture

Thompson's Station and Spring Hill both offer a variety of community events and cultural experiences throughout the year. In Thompson's Station, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the annual Dog & Pony Show, a family-friendly event featuring live music, food trucks, and activities for kids. The town also hosts a Farmers Market every Wednesday from May to October, where visitors can purchase local produce and handmade goods.

Spring Hill also has a range of community events, such as the annual Country Ham Festival, which celebrates the town's agricultural heritage with live music, crafts, and a ham breakfast. The Spring Hill Art Walk is another popular event, showcasing the work of local artists and musicians.

Both towns have a strong sense of community, with regular events and activities that bring residents together. Thompson's Station has a community center that hosts fitness classes, art workshops, and other programs for all ages. Spring Hill also has a community center, as well as a senior center that offers activities and resources for older adults.

In terms of cultural experiences, both towns have historical sites and landmarks that offer a glimpse into their past. Thompson's Station is home to the Thompson's Station Train Depot, which played a significant role in the town's history during the Civil War. Spring Hill has the Rippavilla Plantation, a historic home that served as a hospital during the Civil War and is now open for tours and events.

Overall, both Thompson's Station and Spring Hill offer a range of community events and cultural experiences that reflect their unique histories and vibrant communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the differences in cost of living between Thompson's Station and Spring Hill, TN?

Thompson's Station and Spring Hill have a similar cost of living, with both being slightly above the national average. However, Thompson's Station is generally considered to be slightly more expensive than Spring Hill due to its higher median home price and property taxes.

How do the school districts in Thompson's Station compare to those in Spring Hill?

Both Thompson's Station and Spring Hill are served by the Williamson County School District, which is highly regarded for its academic excellence. However, Thompson's Station has a slightly higher percentage of students who meet or exceed state proficiency standards in reading and math.

What types of recreational activities are available in Thompson's Station versus Spring Hill?

Thompson's Station and Spring Hill both offer a variety of recreational activities, including parks, sports leagues, and community events. However, Thompson's Station is known for its equestrian community and has several horse farms and riding trails, while Spring Hill is home to several golf courses.

How do the crime rates in Thompson's Station and Spring Hill contrast?

Both Thompson's Station and Spring Hill have low crime rates compared to the national average. However, Thompson's Station has a slightly lower crime rate than Spring Hill, with fewer reported incidents of property crime and violent crime.

What are the housing market trends in Spring Hill compared to Thompson's Station?

Both Thompson's Station and Spring Hill have experienced significant growth in their housing markets in recent years, with rising home prices and low inventory. However, Thompson's Station has a higher median home price than Spring Hill, and its housing market is considered to be slightly more competitive.

What is the commute like for residents of Thompson's Station as opposed to Spring Hill?

Thompson's Station and Spring Hill are both located in Williamson County and are within commuting distance of Nashville. However, Thompson's Station is located slightly further south than Spring Hill, which may result in a slightly longer commute for residents who work in Nashville.