NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — More people are moving to Nashville, but the cost of living can come with sticker shock.

According to Rent.com, the average monthly payment for an apartment in the Music City is between $1,200 and $2,000.

"Nashville has thousands of unrented apartments," District 20 Metro Councilmember Rollin Horton said. "Why? Because no one can afford them."

Councilmembers said they've found a way to help you keep more money in residents' pockets each month.

On Tuesday, they passed the Smart Stair Building Code.

It means each apartment or condo building, up to six floors, can have just one staircase, instead of multiple.

Horton said building taller means less ground space, ultimately lowering costs.

"Studies show it can reduce construction costs by 65%, and that saving will be passed down to either renters or property owners buying them," Horton said.

Horton said working with the Nashville Fire Department to ensure safety was a top priority in this legislation.

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/nashville/metro-council-passes-smart-stair-building-code-to-help-lower-rent-costs/