Poplar Creek
Townhomes Near ORNL & Melton Hill Lake
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
$1,995
per month
3
Bedrooms
2.5
Bathrooms
1,868-1,956
Square Feet
2026
Year Built
Townhomes
Home Type
Poplar Creek offers townhomes for rent in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Two floor plans starting at $1,995/mo: The Magnolia (1,956 sqft) and The Sycamore (1,868 sqft). Both 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom with 2026 construction, fenced backyards, walk-in closets, stainless steel appliances. 12-14 month leases, $1,100 deposit. Pet-friendly. Contact: 865-252-6270.
Managed by Right Time Homes · 865-252-6270
Life at Poplar Creek
For years, if you worked in Oak Ridge, at ORNL, Y-12, or the dozens of contractors and companies in the scientific corridor, your rental options were limited to aging apartment complexes and dated single-family homes with absentee landlords. Poplar Creek changes that equation entirely.
These are brand-new townhomes set in one of the most naturally beautiful areas of East Tennessee. Step outside and you're surrounded by mature trees, gentle rolling terrain, and the kind of quiet that city dwellers drive an hour to find. Step inside and you're in a modern, open-concept home with LVP flooring, quartz countertops, and finishes that belong in a house twice the rent.
Residents at Poplar Creek are a community of scientists, engineers, educators, and families who chose Oak Ridge for its schools, safety, and proximity to nature, and who refused to settle for the dated rental stock that used to be the only option. They jog the North Ridge trails before work, kayak Melton Hill Lake on weekends, and enjoy the genuine small-town feel that's 30 minutes from everything Knoxville offers.
$1,995
Starting Rent
15 min
to ORNL
2026
Year Built
Nature
Rich Setting
Walk Through Your Future Home
Explore every room, every angle, every detail, from anywhere. Our interactive 3D tour lets you experience Poplar Creek as if you were already here.
Like what you see? Schedule your private tour today.
Designed for How Families Really Live
Every detail built with intention. Take a closer look.
Where Every Meal Becomes a Moment
Modern kitchen with island, premium finishes, and space to entertain. Every detail designed for families who love to cook and gather.
Open Plan Living
Spacious open-concept design that flows naturally from living to dining to kitchen. Natural light fills every corner through oversized windows.
Your Private Retreat
3 bedrooms designed for rest and renewal. Generous closet space, premium carpet, and room to breathe.
3
Bedrooms
Space for Everyone
Every bedroom is designed with the same attention to detail, natural light, generous proportions, and a peaceful atmosphere for restful sleep.
2.5 Modern Bathrooms
Clean lines, modern fixtures, and thoughtful design. Every bathroom feels like a personal spa.
Poplar Creek From the Outside
Landscaped grounds, private driveways, and curb appeal that stands out. Poplar Creek looks as good on the outside as it feels on the inside.
Amenities & Features at Poplar Creek
Every home at Poplar Creek includes these features at no extra cost.
Why Residents Choose Poplar Creek
What sets Poplar Creek apart from other rental communities in Oak Ridge.
New construction by Right Time Homes
Built 2026 in Oak Ridge
The First Modern Rental Community in Oak Ridge
Poplar Creek is the first newly built, professionally managed rental community in the Oak Ridge area in over a decade. Every townhome is 2026 construction with modern finishes, a genuine upgrade from the dated housing stock that previously defined Oak Ridge rentals.
15 Minutes to ORNL, No Knoxville Commute
If you work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Y-12, or the surrounding contractor offices, Poplar Creek eliminates the Knoxville commute entirely. You're 15 minutes from the lab and living in a home that matches the caliber of your career.
Nature Without Sacrifice
You get the trees, the trails, and the quiet, without giving up modern interiors, energy efficiency, or professional maintenance. Poplar Creek proves you don't have to choose between a beautiful natural setting and a beautiful home.
The Best Value in East Tennessee
Starting at $1,995/month for a brand-new 3BR/2.5BA townhome, Poplar Creek is significantly more affordable than comparable new construction in Knoxville's core. You get more home, more nature, and more peace of mind, for less.
Floor Plans at Poplar Creek
Poplar Creek Pricing & Plans
Trusted by Families at Poplar Creek
“We relocated from California for my husband's job at ORNL. Being able to do the entire process remotely, virtual tour, online application, electronic lease, was a game-changer. Poplar Creek exceeded our expectations.”
Jennifer L.
Oak Ridge, TN
“The commute to Y-12 is under 10 minutes and the townhomes are brand new with amazing finishes. Oak Ridge is quieter than Knoxville and we love the hiking trails nearby. Our kids are thriving in Oak Ridge schools.”
The Garcia Family
Oak Ridge, TN
“Quiet, safe, and beautifully built. Poplar Creek feels like a real neighborhood, not a cookie-cutter development. The pet park is great for our dog and the on-site manager is always available.”
Ryan & Megan T.
Oak Ridge, TN
Moving to Poplar Creek: The Complete Guide
Relocating to Oak Ridge or already in the area? Here's everything you need to know about making Poplar Creek your next home.
Application Process
Apply online in 15 minutes with a valid ID, income verification (3x monthly rent), and credit/background authorization. Joint applications welcome. Most approvals come within 24-48 hours.
Lease Terms
12-month standard lease. Month-to-month options may be available for qualified residents after the initial term. Contact us for relocation-friendly arrangements.
Security Deposit
Typically one month's rent. Reduced deposit for applicants with strong credit. Fully refundable at move-out per standard conditions.
Pet Policy
Dogs and cats welcome with an on-site dog park. Maximum 2 pets per household. Pet deposit: $350 for the first pet, $150 for the second (non-refundable). Some breed restrictions may apply.
Parking
Covered parking included with every townhome. Guest parking throughout the community. No separate parking fees.
Utilities
Residents handle electric, water, gas, and internet through Oak Ridge Utility District (ORUD) and local providers. Energy-efficient construction keeps costs manageable. Smart thermostats pre-installed.
Maintenance
24/7 emergency maintenance through Right Time Homes. Routine requests handled next business day. Community grounds professionally maintained.
Move-In Timeline
Approved applicants typically move in within 7-14 days. We provide a property walkthrough, key handoff, and welcome packet with local utility and area information.
Love What You See?
Tour Poplar Creek in person, available 7 days a week.
Oak Ridge Neighborhood Guide
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
Living in Oak Ridge, TN: A Scientist's Small Town with Big Amenities
Oak Ridge is a unique American city, founded as part of the Manhattan Project, now home to world-class scientific research and a community that values education, nature, and quality of life.
Schools & Education
- ●Oak Ridge Schools, independently operated, strong STEM focus
- ●Oak Ridge High School, known for science and technology programs
- ●Robertsville Middle School, 12 min
- ●Roane State Community College, Oak Ridge campus, 10 min
- ●University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 35 min via I-40
Scientific & Employment Hub
- ●Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), 15 min (nation's largest science/energy lab)
- ●Y-12 National Security Complex, 12 min
- ●UCOR (cleanup contractor), 10 min
- ●Numerous DOE contractors and tech companies in the corridor
- ●Downtown Knoxville jobs, 30 min via I-40
- ●McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), 40 min
Dining & Community
- ●Big Ed's Pizza, Oak Ridge institution since 1964
- ●Burchfield's Craft Bakery, local favorite
- ●Downtown Oak Ridge restaurants and cafes, 10 min
- ●Clinton Highway restaurant corridor, 15 min
- ●Knoxville dining scene, 30 min for date nights
Shopping & Essentials
- ●Kroger, 10 min (main grocery option)
- ●Walmart Supercenter, Oak Ridge, 10 min
- ●Downtown Oak Ridge shops and services, 10 min
- ●Turkey Creek shopping (Knoxville), 35 min for major retailers
Nature & Recreation
- ●North Ridge Trail, premier mountain biking and hiking, 5 min
- ●Melton Hill Lake, kayaking, fishing, swimming, 10 min
- ●Haw Ridge Park, 50+ miles of trails, 15 min
- ●Manhattan Project National Historical Park, 10 min
- ●American Museum of Science and Energy, 10 min
- ●Great Smoky Mountains, 60 min to Gatlinburg entrance
Healthcare
- ●Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge, 10 min
- ●UT Medical Center, 35 min (Level I Trauma Center)
- ●Urgent care and walk-in clinics within 10 min
Sources: School ratings via GreatSchools.org. Population and housing data from U.S. Census Bureau. Drive times estimated via Google Maps. Local business information verified as of 2025.
Ready to Make Poplar Creek Home?
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Interested in Poplar Creek?
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Frequently Asked Questions About Poplar Creek Townhomes
Poplar Creek is approximately 30 minutes from Downtown Knoxville via I-40 West. The commute is a straightforward interstate drive. You're also just 10 minutes from Oak Ridge city center, 15 minutes from Clinton, and 40 minutes from Alcoa/Maryville.
Rent at Poplar Creek starts at $1,995 per month. Two 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom floor plans are available: The Magnolia (1,956 sqft) and The Sycamore (1,868 sqft). Both require a $1,100 deposit and 12-14 month lease.
Yes! Poplar Creek welcomes pets with an on-site dog park and nature-rich green spaces, especially great for dog owners. Maximum 2 pets per household. Pet deposit: $350 for the first pet, $150 for the second (non-refundable). Some breed restrictions may apply. Contact our leasing office at 865-252-6270 for the full pet policy.
Two floor plans are available starting at $1,995/mo: The Magnolia (3BR/2.5BA, 1,956 sqft) and The Sycamore (3BR/2.5BA, 1,868 sqft). Both feature open-concept layouts, modern kitchens with islands, LVP flooring, walk-in closets, stainless steel appliances, fenced backyards, and energy-efficient 2026 construction. 12-14 month leases, $1,100 deposit.
Yes! Explore our Poplar Creek model home in full 3D with our interactive Matterport walkthrough, available 24/7 on our community page. You can walk through every room and check dimensions before scheduling an in-person visit.
Poplar Creek is in the Oak Ridge Schools district, which is independently operated and well-regarded for its STEM programs, fitting, given Oak Ridge's scientific heritage. Oak Ridge High School, Robertsville Middle School, and several elementary schools are within 10-15 minutes.
Very close. ORNL is approximately 15 minutes from Poplar Creek, making this community ideal for scientists, engineers, and support staff working at the lab. The Y-12 National Security Complex is about 12 minutes away. Many Poplar Creek residents work in the Oak Ridge scientific corridor.
Rent covers your townhome and access to community amenities. Utilities, electric, water, gas, internet, are the responsibility of the resident. Oak Ridge Utility District (ORUD) and local providers serve the area. Energy-efficient construction helps keep utility bills below regional averages.
Standard lease terms are 12 months. After the initial term, qualified residents may have month-to-month renewal options. Contact our leasing team at 865-252-6270 to discuss specific arrangements.
Apply online in 15 minutes. You'll need a valid ID, proof of income (3x monthly rent), and authorization for a credit and background check. Most applications are processed within 24-48 hours. Once approved, sign your lease and schedule your move-in.
Yes, every Poplar Creek townhome includes full-size washer and dryer hookups inside the unit. Private laundry is standard, no shared facilities or coin machines.
The security deposit is typically equal to one month's rent. Applicants with strong credit may qualify for a reduced deposit. Fully refundable upon move-out, less any damages beyond normal wear and tear.
Yes, every townhome includes covered parking. Guest parking is available throughout the community. No additional parking fees, it's all part of your lease.
Poplar Creek was built in 2026 with modern construction standards. The community features energy-efficient design, contemporary finishes, and quality materials throughout, all maintained by Right Time Homes' professional property management team.
The Oak Ridge area offers a unique blend of science, nature, and small-town charm. Visit the American Museum of Science and Energy, hike or bike the North Ridge Trail system, kayak on Melton Hill Lake, or explore the Manhattan Project National Historical Park. Downtown Oak Ridge has local restaurants, a farmer's market, and regular community events.
Most Oak Ridge rentals are older homes or apartments that haven't been updated in decades. Poplar Creek offers brand-new 2026 construction with modern open-concept layouts, premium finishes, and responsive professional management from Right Time Homes. It's the quality upgrade the Oak Ridge rental market has been missing.
Interested in Poplar Creek?
Schedule a private tour. We're available 7 days a week.
Schedule a Private Tour
Experience your future home in person. We handle the rest.