Optimism is growing in Nashville, new Vanderbilt poll says
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Nashville might be getting its groove back.
The latest: A new poll released Friday by Vanderbilt University shows residents' optimism has rebounded to its highest point in four years.
State of play: The Vanderbilt poll has captured dissatisfaction with Nashville's direction over the last several years. Most people said the city was on the wrong track in 2022 and 2023.
- The tide shifted a bit last year, when a slim majority said Nashville was headed in the right direction. The latest results show that optimistic majority has continued to grow.
By the numbers: 58% of Nashville residents think the city is headed in the right direction, according to the poll.
- That includes a majority of residents who identify as Democrats and independents. Residents skewed optimistic regardless of their income.
Yes, but: A 52% majority of Nashville Republicans say the city is still on the wrong track.
Between the lines: Nashvillians approve of Mayor Freddie O'Connell and other locally elected officials. O'Connell's approval rating sits at 67% in the latest poll.
- The Nashville Fire Department has the highest approval rating among city institutions at 96%.
- Police have 68% approval.
Friction point: Nashvillians continue to agree the city is growing too quickly.
- Respondents said O'Connell should focus on improving schools, addressing affordability, reducing crime and improving traffic.
How it works: The latest Vanderbilt Poll was conducted Feb. 21-March 16 and included 1,008 Nashville residents. The margin of error is +/- 3.8 percentage points.