According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 10.0 square miles (26 km2), all land.

McMinnville lies at an elevation of 968 feet (295 m), as it sits along the Eastern Highland Rim near the base of the Cumberland Plateau.

The city is drained primarily by the Barren Fork, a tributary of the Collins River.

As of the 2020 United States census, there were 13,788 people, 5,581 households, and 3,131 families residing in the city.

[13] The city's industrial needs are served by the Caney Fork and Western Railroad.

McMinnville, like many smaller American cities and towns, has gone through a revitalization of its downtown area.

Synchronous Gig broadband service for homes and businesses is offered by Ben Lomand Connect.

Located on West Main Street, this 2 million dollar facility was restored to its original beauty and is now the home of concerts, plays, and movies.

Dream Reality Group performs there, as does Warren Arts Community Theatre.

It features crafts, food, live music, and other activities in downtown McMinnville.

[17] Throughout spring, summer and winter the city hosts the Warren County Farmers Market.

Falcon Rest, built in 1896, once served as the home of entrepreneur Clay Faulkner and his family.

A large 10,000 square feet (900 m2), at the time of its completion it featured electric lights, indoor plumbing and central heat.

[20] The renovations earned the house the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Great American Home Award in 1997.

In the 1980s it was deeded to his relative, Jean Leonard, who worked with the Eagle Club to begin restoration on the house.

[24] The former McMinnville Opera House, built in 1888 by African American entrepreneur William Hawchins, burnt down in 2008.

McMinnville serves as home to Cumberland Caverns and Court Square Park.