Western North Carolina is a haven for nature lovers. This region is blessed with towering verdant mountains, pristine gentle valleys, virgin stands of untouched forest, crystal clear lakes and streams, and vibrant cities and towns.
Every year, millions of visitors flock to the mountains for outdoor recreation. Most of Western North Carolina is wilderness, offering an abundance of recreational opportunities, from mountain climbing to whitewater rafting.
Some simply fell in love with the place and decided to call it home. If you happen to have gone here and are considering a move, read on to learn the best places to live in Western North Carolina and all the wonderful things that await you!
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10-Point Guide to the Best of Western North Carolina
There’s so much to look forward to once you move to Western North Carolina.
#1: Breathtaking Views
The mountain ranges of Western North Carolina offer majestic views of sunrises and sunsets. Live here and enjoy these stunning views year-round!
#2: Affordable Cost of Living
The cost of living in Western North Carolina is lower than the national average, making it a great place to live for those seeking affordable living.
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#3: Four Seasons
Residents enjoy a plethora of activities and events that all four seasons bring. Unlike other parts of the country, you can experience fall, winter, spring, and summer in this region.
#4: Healthy Lifestyle
Several studies show that living in higher altitudes can lower the risk of certain heart diseases and the likelihood of obesity. Several outdoor activities are also available right outside your doorstep to keep you active.
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#5: Abundance of Hiking Trails
Hiking trails, greenways, and more are waiting to be explored. Trek through dense forests, discover hidden waterfalls, or climb to the summit of one of the local mountain peaks.
#6: Great Fishing Opportunities
Rivers, ponds, lakes, and streams abound in the area, providing locals with several opportunities to go fishing. Enjoy the challenge of fly fishing or hire a fly fishing guide to learn more about how to fly fish.
#7: No Traffic
One of the perks of living in North Carolina Mountain is there’s no traffic! And going for a drive is always a treat, thanks to the views of surrounding nature.
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#8: Clean Air
The region is void of air pollution that exacerbates health issues like allergies and asthma. Here, you get to breathe in fresh air that smells of pine-scented mountain woods.
#9: Southern Hospitality
Southern hospitality is alive and well in Western North Carolina. Experience the warmth and genuine inclusivity in this close-knit community.
#10: Exciting Festivities and Events
Locals and visitors look forward to several events that bring the community together. Some of these events include Greening Up the Mountains, Drinker Festival, LEAF Festival, Sourwood Festival, Taste of Black Mountain, Art in Bloom, Holly Jolly Celebration, and Christmas Parade.
Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Modernity
The region offers a fusion of historic places, heritage museums, pristine valleys and forests, and vibrant Western North Carolina cities and towns.
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The Charm of Asheville
The seat of Buncombe County, this small mountain city is a sight to behold, with the Blue Ridge Mountains and surrounding forests, waterfalls, and waterways forming a backdrop behind the downtown skyline.
Art Deco buildings that have been transformed into shops, restaurants, and bars give the walkable city a Parisian feel, thus earning the nickname “Paris of the South.”
Aside from a thriving food scene, Asheville has been dubbed “Beer City,” having more breweries per capita than any other city in the country.
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Life in Boone
This quaint little town boasts an impressive educational system, making it an ideal place to raise a family. The Watauga County School District is home to some of the best public schools in all of North Carolina.
Boone has a thriving art and cultural scene. The Appalachian State University is an excellent place to take in some culture and art, with seven galleries that constantly update their collections.
The Historic Hendersonville
The county seat and commercial hub of Henderson County is home to the historic Johnson Farm, a heritage museum that gives you a peek into 1880s North Carolina.
Like many Western North Carolina towns, Hendersonville is surrounded by forests, such as Dupont State Forest, Pisgah National Forest, and Green River Game Lands.
Located amidst the majestic mountains of the Southern Appalachians, Hendersonville is known as “The City of Four Seasons” because of its varied climate that offers diverse recreational opportunities year-round.
Exploring Waynesville
There’s a lot to explore in Waynesville – art galleries, natural splendors, and a bustling culinary scene.
Walk along Main Street, and you’ll find an eclectic mix of old-fashioned general stores, art galleries, bookstores, and clothing boutiques.
Enjoy a laid-back dinner at Sauced, a favorite restaurant among locals, and listen to live music while sampling the menu of pizza, tacos, and craft brews.
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Morganton's Natural Allure
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Morganton is a great place to unplug and soak up some fresh air in the great outdoors.
Take a hike through the picturesque Lake James State Park, enjoy a premiere zipline experience at Beanstalk Ziplines, take horseback riding lessons at Mimosa Hills Farm, or go fishing at the Catawba River Greenway.
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The Vibrancy of Black Mountain
Perched in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this small town draws thousands of visitors every year with so many fun and exciting festivals and events: LEAF Festival, Sourwood Festival, Taste of Black Mountain, Art in Bloom, Holly Jolly Celebration, and Christmas Parade.
Despite being a small town, Black Mountain boasts a vast array of restaurants, breweries, shopping establishments, and art galleries.
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Tranquility in Brevard
Called “The Land of Waterfalls,” Brevard boasts over 250 waterfalls, in addition to a charming downtown and endless outdoor adventures, making it one of the best places to live in Western NC.
Some of the must-see natural attractions include Sliding Rock, Glass Rock, Looking Glass Falls, Whitewater Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Dupont State Recreational Forest.
Conclusion
The abundance of natural attractions, rich history and culture, vibrant food and shopping scene, excellent education, and exciting festivities are just some of the reasons people are drawn to move to Western North Carolina.
If you are considering living in this beautiful location, it would be my pleasure to show you all the home options available in the region. Feel free to give me a call at 828-550-5195 or send me an email at luke@findyournextplace.com so we can set up a meeting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the job opportunities like?
Western North Carolina has a strong job market and diverse industries, offering excellent opportunities for personal and professional growth.
What is the cost of living in Western North Carolina?
The cost of living in Western North Carolina is lower than the national average, making it a great place to live for those seeking affordable living.
How's the weather?
Residents enjoy a plethora of activities and events that all four seasons bring. Unlike other parts of the country, you can experience fall, winter, spring, and summer in this region.
