News Summary
La Vergne, Tennessee, has been recognized as the ‘Freest City’ in the state according to the 2025 City Freedom Index by the Beacon Center of Tennessee. This accolade highlights La Vergne’s strong performance in economic liberty and individual rights compared to other major cities. The city excelled in the Free Enterprise category and ranked fifth in the Cost of Government metric, showcasing its favorable business environment. Mayor Jason Cole emphasized that this recognition reinforces the city’s commitment to liberty, efficiency, and economic opportunities, making it an attractive location for families and businesses.
La Vergne, Tennessee has been named the “Freest City” in the state, according to the 2025 City Freedom Index released by the Beacon Center of Tennessee. This recognition highlights La Vergne’s achievement in terms of economic liberty, individual freedoms, and efficient governmental practices when compared to other major cities in Tennessee.
The City Freedom Index evaluates Tennessee’s 30 most populous cities based on various metrics, such as free enterprise, property rights, individual liberty, and the cost of government. La Vergne topped the index in the category of Free Enterprise and placed fifth overall in the Cost of Government metric. These scores reflect the city’s favorable business environment, characterized by low property taxes and streamlined municipal operations.
La Vergne’s commitment to safeguarding private property rights and minimizing bureaucracy has earned the city notable commendations. This recognition is a result of deliberate policies aimed at fostering an economically vibrant community while ensuring personal freedoms for its residents.
Community and Economic Impact
The city’s Mayor Jason Cole underscored that this accolade reinforces La Vergne’s commitment to liberty, efficiency, and economic opportunities. Residents and business owners alike are encouraged to take pride in living in a city that champions support without the burden of heavy governmental interference. The ranking establishes La Vergne as a desirable location for families and businesses, further enhancing its appeal as a welcoming community.
Comparative Rankings
In addition to La Vergne, cities that followed in the top rankings included Farragut, Gallatin, Brentwood, and Hendersonville. Farragut captured second place overall and was recognized for having the lowest cost of government, while Chattanooga scored highest in individual liberty, albeit ranking 22nd overall. Meanwhile, Kingsport topped the list for private property rights.
On the other hand, Nashville stood at the bottom of the index, primarily due to its extensive regulations and elevated tax burden. The analysis conducted by the Beacon Center indicates a trend where larger cities in Tennessee generally impose higher regulations and taxes, differentiating them from smaller cities like La Vergne.
Background of the Index
The 2025 City Freedom Index, released on July 1, 2025, marks the ongoing efforts by the Beacon Center to evaluate and promote the importance of freedom and economic conditions in urban settings. The index has become an annual fixture since its inception in 2020, aiming to foster discussions about government policies and their impacts on residents’ lives. The data showcases how local governance can significantly influence property rights and business conditions, further emphasizing the varied landscapes of Tennessee’s cities.
La Vergne’s impressive ranking is attributed to the concerted efforts of the city council, municipal staff, and the active community engagement. This recognition serves as a testament to what can be achieved when a municipality prioritizes the welfare of its residents and businesses through a framework of liberty and limited government involvement.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- WSMV: La Vergne Named Freest City in Tennessee
- The Center Square: Free Cities in Tennessee Report
- Fox 17: Freest Tennessee Cities Named
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Freedom
- Google Search: Freest Cities in Tennessee

Author: HERE Nashville
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