As an ambitious musician, living in a city with a great music scene is essential. Some cities have this feature, as there are multiple venues, bars, restaurants, and clubs that are always looking for live musicians. 

While you can help your music career take off by moving to any of these seven cities, some cities are best suited for country music rather than rap, and vice versa. These are some of the best cities for musicians.

By the way, if you’re considering a move to any of these cities, Agoyu can help you find the best qualified movers in your local area.

1. Nashville, Tennessee

Tennessee is one of the best states for music, and Nashville is one of the best cities for musicians to live in. Unsurprisingly, it is known as the “Music City” because it is the best city for music. 

There are great venues and bars for up-and-coming musicians to work their way into and perform, such as The Station Inn, Robert’s Western World, Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar, and The Row. In addition, Nashville is full of major record label companies always looking for the next star. 

Since musicians often still need to get a lot of money, living in an affordable area like Nashville is helpful. There is much opportunity for an aspiring musician here. The cost of living is two percent lower than the national average, and various venues and bars are looking to hire musicians.

2. New York City, New York

New York City is one of the best places for musicians to live and is one of the best pedestrian cities for musicians. New York City’s music scene is diverse, orbiting various genres of music. Whether you sing pop music, rap, or country, New York City will have a crowd eager to listen to you. 

There are multiple venues, restaurants, clubs, bars, and places to perform music throughout the city, such as The Bitter End, The Red Room at KGB, and the Cellar Dog. Someday, after playing at the small places long enough, you can make it to the Bowery Ballroom and, maybe, Madison Square Garden. 

In New York City, there are endless opportunities and possibilities. The only downside to living in New York City is living in an apartment, as a one-bedroom in the city costs an average of $4,156 monthly.

3. Glendale, California

Glendale, located in the Los Angeles metropolitan area of California, is another one of the best cities for musicians to live in. Glendale is legendary when it comes to the arts, and many aspiring artists and actors live here. 

There are various music venues and dive bars to perform, like Dave’s on Broadway or the Alex Theater. This city offers many locally owned music stores, like Larry Larson Music or Charles Music Store. Many musicians frequent these stores to purchase new instruments, repair an instrument, or take lessons to improve your skills.

Living so close to Los Angeles helps give aspiring musicians all the connections they need to make it big. However, Glendale is expensive to live in because it is so close to central Los Angeles. The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment is $2,907 per month.

4. Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta is another one of the best cities for the music industry. One of the best perks about Atlanta, Georgia, is its affordable living cost and incredible music scene. 

While most music is focused on hip-hop and rap here, all music genres are welcome, as there are lovers of various types of music here. The average cost to rent a one-bedroom apartment in Atlanta is $1,846 per month, which is affordable compared to most major cities. 

Familiar artists like T.I., Usher, and Ludacris have built their careers in Atlanta. One of the largest music festivals, the A3C Festival, occurs annually. Whether you are new to the music industry or are trying to get your name known, Atlanta is a great place to live.

5. Seattle, Washington

Seattle, Washington, is another one of the best cities for musicians to live in. Seattle has always been known for its music scene and thriving music culture. 

Jimi Hendrix lived in the Central District of Seattle for almost half his life and essentially started his career there. There are many incredible venues, such as the Triple Door and the Paragon. Seattle is an excellent place for an up-and-coming musician to live, as the cost of living is affordable.

A one-bedroom apartment costs about $1,464 per month, which is expected in the city. The musical diversity in Seattle is vast, as every genre is equally represented. 

6. Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles, California, is another excellent place for aspiring musicians to live. If you have already dipped your toes in the water in the music industry, Los Angeles is a great place to take your career to the next level. 

L.A. is home to numerous well-known record labels, such as Capitol Records, Warner Records, and Dreamville Records. You may even be familiar with the Paramount Recording Studio, where some of the world’s most famous musicians have recorded some of the most iconic records. 

Living in Los Angeles may allow you to become noticed by the right people, but it is pricey to live here. The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment here is $2,250 per month.

7. Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas, is one of the best cities for musicians to live in. Austin is home to some of the country’s most incredible live music venues, such as the Historic Scoot Inn, The Hole in the Wall, and the Elephant Room. 

In addition, Austin has a fantastic barbeque, as there are various barbeque restaurants throughout the city. Austin is an excellent place for an up-and-coming musician because you can be well-known to make it here. 

You can make a decent living playing live music with all the venues, restaurants, and bars available. The average rent for an apartment in Austin is $1,799 per month, but the price can go up or down depending on location, size, and quality.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a career to take off in music, moving to one of these seven cities may be a great choice. 

To prepare for your move, Agoyu can help find and compare the price of some of the best moving companies. Check out Agoyu today for more information on mover pricing and to get started planning your move.