Lake Glenville is a very popular … Read 37 Reviews. 1. 2020 Best Places to Live in North Carolina About this List Explore the best places to live in the U.S. based on crime, public schools, cost of living, job opportunities, and local amenities. N. Georgia? 7. Begin with our list of the best mountain towns in North Carolina. One of the big attractions, just outside of town, is Grandfather Mountain and its mile-high swing bridge, one of the top sites in North Carolina. Rolling hills surround the town, and the Tuckasegee River runs through the middle. In the summer, these same ski hills feature downhill mountain bike courses for those fearless on two wheels. Brevard is ideally situated at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, close to some of North Carolina's most spectacular waterfalls. In the Tar Heel State, there are so many great small towns—far too many to count—so choosing our favorites is a monumentally challenging task. Asheville may be the best-known destination in the mountains of North Carolina, but Hendersonville is a wonderful small-town alternative. In fact, the following cities are the best places to retire to in North Carolina on a budget based on the cost of living, amenities, greenspaces, access to healthcare, and activities for seniors. Please fill out highlighted fields and click "Compare Prices" to continue. We love exploring our cool, charming small towns nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Six individual downhill areas, in fact, and Banner Elk sits between two of them, Beech and Sugar Mountains. Southern hospitalities and centuries-old culture are simple to find in the Tar Heel State. September, June and May are the most pleasant months in the Asheville metro area, while January and December are the least comfortable months. There are numerous trails in the area for hiking and biking, a nine-hole public golf course and plenty of shopping and restaurants at Chimney Rock Village. September, June and May … If you are a retiree, then you will find that North Carolina’s old-fashion charm and appeal is a great complement to the low cost of living the state offers. 15 Best Places to Live in South Carolina. Lovely homes line the slopes overlooking ravines, making this one of the prettiest towns in this area of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Discover destinations, find outdoor adventures, follow the journeys of our travel writers around the world, and be inspired. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Morganton, Jackson County Courthouse in Sylva | Photo Copyright: Lana Law. Brevard has a pleasant feel about it. Home to Duke University, Durham is part of the Research Triangle and known to many as the “City of Medicine.” This is a place with a thriving music scene and one that’s fond of its sports, especially the Duke Blue Devils. Best places to retire in north carolina high country nc area facts city 2020 best cities to retire daveramsey the cliffs luxury home builders in black mountain a weekend retreat orThe 5 Best Places To Retire In North CarolinaBest Places To Live Or Retire In North Carolina Nc Cities RegionsBest Places To Live In Western… Read More » Best place to live in Blue Ridge Mountains? It’s a small town that has almost doubled in the past 20 years, but it’s still pretty tiny with a population of approximately 10,000. Where: Cherokee is located on the Cherokee Indian Reservation on the southern side of the Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. Roanoke, Virginia? Relocating to North Carolina for retirement is a smart financial move thanks to an affordable cost of living and low housing prices. Six individual downhill areas, in fact, and Banner Elk sits between two of them, Beech and Sugar Mountains. Tennessee heads up the western border of North Carolina, while Virginia takes the north. Concord, NC. Catering to both the summer crowds who come here to visit the park, and the winter crowds, who are often skiers and boarders who come to enjoy the slopes of nearby Cataloochee Ski Resort, this small town offers everything you need and more. The median household income in Winterville comes in at $72,584 … This tri-city region (known a… We think that Waynesville is one of the best places to live in Western North Carolina. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the eclectic city of Asheville prides itself on being just a little “weird.” In fact, you’ll find quite a few souvenirs around town that proclaim “Keep Asheville Weird.” But they mean weird in the best way possible – the city is unique and varied with its many restaurants from a range of different nationalities, its many art galleries and shops, craft breweries and wineries, and of course, the infamous drum circle that takes place downtown every Friday night. Best Places to Live in Black Mountain, North Carolina Mid-sized city - Far western North Carolina, 30 miles southeast of Tennessee border, near Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Peace and quiet comes in the form of homemade sweet tea, old-timer stories about the south, and scenic solitude. Morganton is charming town in the foothills surrounded by beautiful scenery and outdoor adventure opportunities. One of the top summer attractions for families is Santa's Land Fun Park & Zoo, a large amusement park with rides and animals. Skiing in North Carolina: With elevations that exceed 5,000 feet and extensive snowmaking equipment, the mountains of North Carolina offer excellent opportunities for skiing. The biggest event to jam the tiny downtown is … By subscribing I agree to the terms 15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Wilmington, N.C. 11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in North Carolina, 3 Top Places for Deep Sea Fishing in North Carolina, 13 Top-Rated Small Towns in North Carolina, 7 Top-Rated Romantic Getaways in North Carolina, 11 Top-Rated Waterfalls in North Carolina, 12 Top-Rated Beach Resorts in North Carolina, 10 Top-Rated Rivers for Trout Fishing in North Carolina, 9 Top-Rated Campgrounds in the Outer Banks, NC, 5 Top-Rated Ski Resorts in North Carolina 2021, 16 Top Cheap Ski Holidays in North America, 2021, 12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Durham, NC, 10 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in The Bahamas, 19 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 11 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World, Photo Source: Burnsville and Yancey County Tourism, North Carolina's most spectacular waterfalls, Top Rivers for Trout Fishing in North Carolina. Where is the Safest Place to Live in North Carolina? Appalachian Ski Resort is just minutes away and is a top destination for snowboarders and young skiers. The Niche 2017 Best Places to Live in North Carolina named Morrisville the best place to live in the Tar Heel State, and fifth best in the country. The town’s quaint Main Street has an old-school charm that will slow down your pace and make you feel like you’ve gone back in time. With the second largest downtown area in Western North Carolina, there are more than 100 shops and 25 restaurants to explore. One of the top things to do in the summer is to catch the long running outdoor drama, Horn in the West. The town of almost 22,000 residents ranked favourably in the areas of public schools, job availability and ethnic and economic diversity, all of which were given an A+ score. One of the town's major annual events is the Folkmoot International Dance & Music Festival, held over a 10-day stretch in July. Lake Glenville is hidden away in the mountains of western North Carolina, surrounded by hiking trails that wind through natural mountain beauty to waterfalls. Using science and data, AreaVibes has created a list of the safest places to live in North Carolina with a population over 5,000. Banner Elk, NC. Charlotte’s … With its small-town mountain charm, Wears Valley is the perfect place to visit when you want to trade city skylines for mountain vistas. A quick glance at the stats quickly reveals the reasons behind its position: of its 7828 residents, 25% own a property with a median value of $263,826. If you are in town on a Friday, be sure to catch one of the free summer musical events taking place at Concerts on the Creek at the Bridge Park. Add to List. The Best of North Carolina: Still in the planning stage of your next vacation? Hiram’s Resort in Florida. A little over 1.5 hours from Asheville, just over two hours from Atlanta, and about three hours from Charlotte, Highlands is a beautiful town in the far southwest corner of North Carolina, not far from the South Carolina border. In the Tar Heel State, there are so many great small towns—far too many to count—so choosing our … If you want to immerse yourself further in the scenery, take a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway or head over to Linville Falls, about 30 minutes away. The Jackson County Courthouse stands proudly on the hill at the end of Main Street in the quaint town of Sylva. Some of North Carolina's mountain towns are highly seasonal, with major attractions open only during the summer months, but a few, particularly those near the ski resorts, lend themselves more towards winter visits. North Carolina Mountains Tourism: Tripadvisor has 971,618 reviews of North Carolina Mountains Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best North Carolina Mountains resource. North Carolina in Pictures: 15 Beautiful Places to Photograph, 14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Charlotte, NC. Summer is the real draw, when the surrounding mountains turn a blissful green and offer up a wealth of natural treasures. Public Schools; 1,046,558 Population. Whatever your preference may be, some of the best places in North Carolina to visit are also the best places to live. Spread over 78 acres but within walking distance of downtown Blowing Rock, this resort offers three lodging choices to suit everyone, from couples to families. Known as the Tarheel State, North Carolina is the 10th largest state in the U.S. and had a population of over 10 million. Whether you ski or not, this small town of approximately 1,000 people, is an appealing destination with a village atmosphere and plenty of reasons to visit. Georgia and South Carolina lie at the south. The town's lovely architecture and historic buildings set it apart from others in the area. Best Places to Live in Asheville Metro Area, North Carolina Mid-sized city - Far western North Carolina, 30 miles southeast of Tennessee border, near Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The school’s campus also features many historic buildings that were built with stone native to the area. Home to Pinehurst, one of the country’s most beloved golf courses, Seagrove, the handmade-pottery capital of the U.S., and Biltmore, America’s largest home, North Carolina has a strong tourism industry. The remainder rent for an average monthly cost of $1,401. If the beautiful lake landscapes of Lake Lure look familiar to you, that’s because they were the backdrop for the popular 80’s movie, Dirty Dancing. Park the car and wander through small shops, discover local cuisine, and enjoy the fresh mountain air, or take a drive through the spectacular scenery to find waterfalls, lookouts, and hiking trails. The Mast Farm Inn. North Carolina Mountains Tourism: Tripadvisor has 971,618 reviews of North Carolina Mountains Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best North Carolina Mountains resource. Blowing Rock's downtown has the look and feel of a true mountain town, with a mix of restored historic buildings and modern structures designed to fit in with the town's village atmosphere. For a tasty and unique treat any time, stop in at the Toasted and Rolled Ice Cream and Bakery, where you can watch your custom ice-cream creation being made right in front of you. And compared to larger cities in the area, the town offers good value. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the town of Lake Lure is more than just a lake – although that is the biggest draw for visitors from across the country. Asheville is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina and is well-known for its arts, music and its thriving craft-beer scene. By subscribing I agree to the terms and privacy policy. Be sure to check out the historic courthouse and the wonderfully restored mansion that now houses Morganton Savings Bank. Hilton Head Island, infamous Myrtle Beach and of course Charleston, home to Fort Sumter; the list of reasons to love little old SC goes on and on! Along some of the other downtown streets, you’ll find grand historic homes that date all the way back to the 1800’s, many of which have been turned into bed and breakfasts. Market Square, is a popular tourist stop that is impossible to miss as you drive through town. 11 Places To Visit In South Carolina When The Mountains Are Calling Your Name. Regardless of the season, the Chetola Resort is a wonderful accommodation option. In 2018, home security company Safewise released a list of the safest towns in North Carolina.Several Western NC towns made the list, including Fletcher (#3), Woodfin (#12), and Black Mountain … With year-round access to scenic natural beauty, world-renowned fly fishing, outdoor recreation activities, and proximity to the majestic Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains … Take a walk down Main Street past the Swain County Heritage Museum and then turn up Everett Street to cross the bridge and look out over the river. Relocating to North Carolina for retirement is a smart financial move thanks to an affordable cost of living and low housing prices. That’s undeniable. See our article on the Best Ski Resorts in North Carolina for ideas to help plan your ski vacation. We'll send you our newsletter with travel destinations, deals, and more! This is also a popular area for trout fishing in North Carolina, particularly in the fall, with the Watauga River presenting a great opportunity for anglers. Cary. Here's a list of the best places to live in North Carolina: Courtesy of American Tobacco Historic District under a CC 2.0 license. Cream is poured on a frozen sheet and rolled up in a Thai tradition, and capped with your favorite toppings. Views over the rolling mountains are spectacular, and some of the best in the area. Although it’s only a little over six and a half square miles in total size, the town of Beech Mountain is loaded with personality and character. Saluda {pop. Pace General Store. © Copyright 2021 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. Cities are fun but sometimes it's nice to swap the busy roads for the peaceful streets of a small mountain town. Asheville, Greensboro and Charlotte are among the best places to live in North Carolina, a state experiencing continual economic growth. In order to help you narrow down your search, here’s a closer look at what we think are the five best North Carolina cities to live in. Look out for our newsletters in your inbox soon. At 5,506 feet in elevation, it is the highest town in the Eastern U.S. and is the perfect spot for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking and mountain biking in the summer. 28604. The town hosts a number of signature events, including the Mt. The town offers a surprising amount of accommodation and has a number of family-focused attractions. Overall Niche Grade; A+. And it also has some of the lowest property taxes in the nation. The town is home to the Great Smokey Mountains Railroad, a popular sightseeing excursion that has several different routes, the most popular is the Nantahala Gorge return trip. In summer, you might want to head to the coast to experience the best beaches in North Carolina or have some fun in the Outer Banks. Add to that a good selection of restaurants, many with outdoor patios in summer; hotels; and attractions; and it's not surprising you frequently hear people describing Hendersonville as the best small town in North Carolina. For more ideas, see our list of the Top Attractions in North Carolina. Greenville, SC # 2 in Best Places to Live in South Carolina Situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville has transformed from a blip on the national map to a bustling metro… From the coast to the mountains, North Carolina has charm to spare. Asheville, Greensboro and Charlotte are among the best places to live in North Carolina… 2543 Broadstone Road. #2 Best Places to Live in North Carolina Current Resident: Cary is a wonderful place to live overall! View Nearby Homes. With its small-town mountain charm, Wears Valley is the perfect place to visit when you want to trade city skylines for mountain vistas. Ranking as the very best place in North Carolina to live in the small neighborhood of Uptown in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County. The downtown area has many restored buildings and interesting shops, and you'll have no trouble finding a place for lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants. Somewhere else? The Niche 2017 Best Places to Live in North Carolina named Morrisville the best place to live in the Tar Heel State, and fifth best in the country. That’s undeniable. Although it’s only home to 1,000 … In early September, the Morganton Festival is a huge event with big name bands, celebrations, games, and arts and crafts vendors set up in the streets. There are four moderate seasons to enjoy as well as relative close proximity to the NC mountains and beaches. With a population of slightly more than 10 million, North Carolina is the 9th largest state in the U.S. by population. When it comes to settling down and starting a family, most people want two things; a friendly atmosphere and a safe neighborhood to raise their children. US. It contains a diversity of geographical features and is divided into three sections: the mountains … This is another popular destination in winter for skiers, particularly families. But we’ve done it; we’ve picked 19 of our favorite small towns across the state. Restored building in Morganton | Photo Copyright: Lana Law. Whether as large as Asheville or as small as Saluda, each of these towns is overflowing with character, charm and a host of things to see and do. There's plenty to do before ski season too, from sampling adult beverages at the Banner Elk Winery and Flat Top Mountain … Get our latest advice & deals in your inbox! Accommodation: Where to Stay in Blowing Rock. Whether you prefer a home with a view of a skyscraper skyline or a view of the mountains, the Tar Heel state has what you are looking for. Plan your Blue Ridge Mountains escape to award winning luxury Inn that specializes in rustic chic intimate ceremonies, plus elopement packages, all in private and luxurious accommodations, romantic dining, and much more. From the eastern shore to the western mountains and across the piedmont, North Carolina has some beautiful lakes, perfect for fishing, boating, swimming and exploring. North Carolina is situated on the eastern Atlantic Ocean coastlines of the United States. Spend some time wandering around, stop in at the Mountain Fresh Grocery to pick up a quick bite or fresh coffee, or enjoy a lunch at one of the many restaurants. Why and what makes your choice the best place in the Blue Ridge? Just 15 minutes from two of the best ski resorts in North Carolina, Banner Elk is a popular winter destination. Home of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Western North Carolina is one of the best places in the United States to own a home, relocate to, retire, and vacation. Just a short distance off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Boone makes a nice place to stop for a night or an afternoon. It's also the apple capital of North Carolina and one of the largest apple-producing counties in America. M.A. Ranking based on data from the U.S. Census, FBI, BLS, CDC, and other sources. The western part of the state of North Carolina is full of beautiful and quaint mountain towns, thanks to the two majestic mountain ranges found there – the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains. There's plenty to do before ski season too, from sampling adult beverages at the Banner Elk Winery and Flat Top Mountain Brewery to checking out October's Wooly Worm Festival, a quirky event celebrating the winter caterpillar that draws some 20,000 people annually. The town of Apex, which is comprised of 42,000 people, is often named one of the best places to live in North Carolina by Indeed, Time Magazine, and Niche. The busy Main Street is lined with covered sidewalks, and is an ideal place for a bit of retail therapy. Charlotte Known as the largest city in North Carolina and one of the best places to live in the U.S., Charlotte has become a popular destination for migrants around the country. And sister city, Durham, is just down the road with academic powerhouses Duke. With only 700 residents, Saluda is the epitome of a small town and you can feel the welcoming spirit when you stroll down its picturesque Main Street. Home to Pinehurst, one of the country’s most beloved golf courses, Seagrove, the handmade-pottery capital of the U.S., and Biltmore, America’s largest home, North Carolina has a strong tourism industry. You'll find everything from t-shirt shops to ski outfitters and restaurants here. Asheville, NC Housing Market. If you like cold temperatures, make sure to take a trip to the quaint town of Beech Mountain and the famed Beach Mountain Resort. Here Are The 10 Safest And Most Peaceful Places To Live In North Carolina. From relaxing morning sunrises over the water to high-energy water sports, lake life has many benefits. It is right next Research Triangle Park (RTP), which is filled with many companies like Cisco, IBM, & … Cute shops and a variety of restaurants, some with summertime outdoor patios set beneath huge leafy trees, line Main Street. Asheville, North Carolina Artists, writers and musicians have long been inspired by this North Carolina mountain town. We’ll send you our newsletter with travel destinations, deals, and more! If you are looking for something a bit bigger in a small-town getaway, Boone is a lively university town with a little less than 20,000 people. The tax rate in Southern Pines is 18.40%. Amongst the beautiful mountain backdrops, you’ll also find a selection of wineries and craft breweries, an art gallery and a lush one mile greenway that extends from Flat Top Brewing Company to the campus of Lees-McRae College. The best places to retire in South Carolina have plenty to offer from pristine lakes and mountains to historic sites that date back to the Revolutionary War. This geography lets Southern Pines retirees live a small-town life while still having access to the amenities and culture of a military town like Fayetteville. and privacy policy. If you are heading to the coast, you may want to have a read through our article on Deep Sea Fishing in North Carolina. Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, on the doorstep … Where are the North Carolina Best Places To Elope: ... Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina. Fishing in North Carolina: The mountains are also a great place for fishing. Mitchell Crafts Fair and the Burnsville Metric, a popular bike ride held in late April. The compact downtown is replete with restored old brick buildings housing interesting restaurants, art shops, and stores. Outdoor lovers can enjoy wonderful hikes and viewpoints in the surrounding Yancey County area, including those on nearby Mt. Balsam Mountain Preserve is a conservation-orientated private residential community set on 4,400 acres in the North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville. The low cost of living and growing economy makes it a really attractive real-estate investment for those who want to buy some land. For a traditional lodge experience, stay at the Chetola Lodge looking out over Chetola Lake. In summer, you may see people fishing. These Are The 10 Best Places To Live In North Carolina; These Are The 10 Cheapest Places To Live In North Carolina; Most liberal Cities To Live In America ; Most liberal States To Live In America; How we determined the most liberal cities in North Carolina for 2019. Nags Head is the largest town in the Outer Banks and also one of the best known beach towns. If you are looking for things to do, the TGIF Summer Concert Series features a wide variety of musicians playing free Friday night concerts in the main square. From the coast to the mountains, North Carolina has charm to spare. The lake lifestyle is a lifestyle unlike any other. If your new home needs to have a great arts community, low crime and unemployment and a progressive culture, Raleigh might top your list of one of the best places to live in North Carolina. Located on the north bank of the Savannah River, North Augusta is not only the seventh most affordable city in South Carolina, it is the epitome of southern hospitality with a pinch of southern charm. Main Street is a mix of restaurants and retail shops, including a disproportionate number of bookstores considering the size of the town. One other piece of local beauty that you’ll want to make sure to see is the angel statue that is located just outside of downtown Hendersonville. Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. Asheville, NC? Nags Head is the largest town in the Outer Banks and also one of the best known beach towns. U-pick farms, like Grandad's Apples N' Such, make a fun stop for families. Home to more than 10 million people, North Carolina is a scenic mash-up of snow-capped mountain ranges, urban cities, obscure communities and gorgeous beaches. #3 in Best Places to Live in North Carolina Hailed as "The Land of the Sky," Asheville, North Carolina, is often considered by outsiders to be a delightfully strange place. The relatively low elevation, 1,991 feet, means it's warmer here in spring, which can be a real advantage. Durham . Luckily in North Carolina … Best Places to Retire in North Carolina . Maggie Valley is a true tourist town just over 30 minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with all kinds of accommodation, including campgrounds, and a number of things to do. In addition to enjoying the magnificent man-made lake, you can also take a stroll on the boardwalk and take in the beauty of the Flowering Bridge – a 155-foot former highway bridge that has now been transformed into a gorgeous garden. We found out by exploring 13 in Western North Carolina that share some characteristics—a population under 5,000, a pedestrian-friendly downtown, ample food and nightlife options—but possess unique attributes as well. Our research is editorially independent but we may earn a commission for purchases made through our links. Everywhere you look, you’ll see beautiful backdrops of the mountains that look like they came off a postcard, not to mention the beauty you’ll find at Asheville’s biggest attraction – Biltmore Estate. Pretend you're ready to retire and you want to go to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Photograph by Caitlin Ragan. SmartAsset considered a number of metrics when determining the best places to retire in North Carolina. Orange County. View over Burnsville | Photo Source: Burnsville and Yancey County Tourism. Soco Falls outside Cherokee | Photo Copyright: Lana Law. The town of almost 22,000 residents ranked … If you want to spend a night, have a look at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, an incredible European-style, luxury hotel in the heart of downtown. It’s not easy to name the best places to retire in North Carolina. Fans of fly fishing may have already heard of Sylva. Small Town, Big Adventure: Explore the Smokies in Bryson City, N.C. Plan the Ultimate Adventure Getaway Without the Crowds in Bryson City, N.C. Eat, Drink and Be Merry This Holiday Season at Capt. On the edge of the town is Soco Falls. Concord, NC is the premier choice for seniors who are interested in retiring in North Carolina. 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