Compared with most other suburban communities in the Memphis area, Arlington can be described as a ‘late bloomer’. It is one of the newer, actively developing municipalities in the Memphis area but is still small and quaint by comparison with other suburban communities. Today, Arlington is emerging as a very desirable place to live for those who choose the characteristics of a smaller, less developed, and a bit more remote community. Indeed, every year the charm and livability of this community seems to increase dramatically, supported by an inventory of historic homes and commercial buildings which is supplemented by newer construction.

In the early to mid 1900’s, Highway 70 was the major east – west highway connecting major cities across Tennessee, and the small towns between them. Approximately twenty miles from downtown Memphis, for decades, Arlington was little more than a “wide” place alongside Highway 70, conveniently located next to the rail line. A handful of stores served the basic needs of this small community. The development of Interstate 40 nearby did not significantly change Arlington for many years. It’s distant suburban location and remote charm was desirable for its population. But that was to change, and change it has!

Since the early 1990’s, the population has been growing with some rapidity as residents have found it desirable and comfortable to enjoy the benefits of this small community. The growth of new residential neighborhoods with large, high quality homes has in turn spawned the recent development of the commercial and support services that make living in Arlington even more desirable. Linked by Interstate 40 to downtown Memphis and by Highway 385 to other suburban communities, Arlington finds itself emerging from a cocoon of isolation and is blossoming into a beautiful, livable, affordable community.