I have lived in Texas, Tennessee and Virginia, and the best place I have ever lived was Nashville, hands-down. We lived in the area near Vanderbilt and could walk to everything. It was wonderful.
I would suggest that you look into Franklin, Tn, as well. It is about 30 minutes south of Nashville, and has a great small town southern feel, with the convenience of the city when you want it.
http://www.franklin-gov.com/
Now... there is a new surburbia creeping up near Franklin, but I am talking the older part of Franklin. There is just gorgeous countryside, and a very quaint old town square.
Oh, and someone else may have mentioned this too... but- no state income tax! Yea for that this time of year!