To meet the need, new apartment buildings are going up wherever land is available. Im planning on retiring soon and wouldnt want to be looking over my shoulder all the time. P.S. https://youtu.be/09rMs1aLUQA Can we talk about Biltmore Winery, too? Small town feel with progressive attitudes (asheville is very liberal, but go 20 minutes out in any direction and its very conservative). Biltmore Estate is the largest private home in America, and well worth a tour. Comprehensive information on both crime and health care is very limited and very filtered. Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions or if anything should be added to this list of pros and cons of moving to Asheville, North Carolina. I lived in Asheville 32 years! We do not miss those NE blizzards, though. And cats, and goats, and chickens. Compared to last year, the median price has increased by 19.4%. Informative. Asheville is a great place if you value great weather. Even those who dont enjoy frolicking in and out of shops will be lured in by the artistic graffiti murals along the industrial buildings on Riverside Drive. Best of luck with the move, and that's so exciting. But then, one weekend, flights thwarted our vacation plans to Puerto Rico. If you prefer a more laidback adventure, hop in the car to Blue Ridge Parkway to see the wildflowers bloom. Beer City USA It's a "brewtiful" thing. -If you were making 60,000 a year salary in LA you would need a 40,000 salary in Asheville. It will take me years to date you, Asheville. AND ITS BEEN THE BEST DECISION EVER! However, after adjusting to the difference, this is one of my personal favorite perks of living in Asheville. Great list. Facebook; . The educational opportunities in Asheville are many for both K-12 as well as college-level. Plus, although we are not vegan or veggie, we seek out this cuisine frequently. Step in the right direction, my cousin and I are meeting in Asheville in a couple of weeks for the first time for the both of us. To move or not to move? Find a cheap place to stash your stuff while you house hunt. The density of breweries in Asheville is one of the highest rates in the United States. The city is a foodies dream. Hampton Inn And Suites Asheville Biltmore Area Although this hotel is on busy Brevard Road NC-191 across from the Asheville Outlets, we stayed here before moving to Asheville. There may or may not have been sobbing in a La Quinta hotel room with hysterical not-so-whispers of please dont make me move to Florida. -The median price of a two-bedroom apartment is $1,189. I loved its modern touches, but I miss older homes. Dallas, Denver, and Newark are also destinations that are available, although not every flight is offered each day. Asheville has many educational opportunities from K-12 to college-level. Asheville, on the other hand, seems to be within the coveted sweet spot. Averaging 85F, the summers in Asheville are admittedly warm but because of the citys higher elevation, theyre also fairly mild. If your career is outside of the healthcare or education system, you could struggle to find a job in the city. Find vegan restaurants, Biltmore, DuPont State Forest, Asheville breweries, fall foliage, and so much more. Clean, updated, and in the middle of everything, you can easily access downtown, Biltmore, and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Plus, work pays in sunshine (I cant take credit for that phrase either). That is due to is location in the mountains, so the higher altitude acts as a mild air conditioner. Asheville is one of the most expensive rental markets in North Carolina, so keep that in mind and plan accordingly. Asheville, North Carolina, is an excellent place if you value the outdoors and good food. Yes, homelessness is a problem that is persistent but that is really the only drawback. Most Florida restaurants, especially outside of the major cities, completely disregarded our severe food intolerances. Asheville attracts creatives like moths to a flame. Thankfully, theres more than a dozen wineries within an hours drive of Asheville. Mostly porch/package theft, but also cars. Mitchell, highest peak east of the Rockies. The unemployment rate is competitive with the rest of the state and country. I need a happy weather medium so I can get out every day instead of being prisoned up during the winters AND in the hot, hot summers. The Swamp Rabbit Trail And thats alright, heck thats what the comments are for! We have summer and we have winter and we no longer have anything in between. Asheville is definitely a pet-friendly town. While reading this list, keep in mind that not everyone will feel the same way about living in Asheville. Um, can I just live here? Whoops, did I go there? This winding two-lane road is home to scenic overlooks, wildlife, hiking trails, waterfalls, and cabin getaways. The arts scene is fantastic, the music is good, and there is a generally progressive vibe that you can enjoy when staying here. Whether you live in the north or the south, the density of breweries here is one of the highest rates in the United States. The average cost of a home sold in Asheville in 2017 was over $320,000 based on over 600 sales, with the average time on the market being 70 days. The only reason why Im mentioning it now is that you cant tell if youre in a calorie deficit unless you know how many calories you burn daily or during exercise. Buxton Hall Barbecue was recently named one of America's 10 best new restaurants. The educational system in Asheville is home to 23 elementary schools and 18 secondary schools. The River Arts District is home to more than 25 studios featuring art from well over 200 artists. I have UC and my husband has Celiac Disease. Like Florida, the muscadine grape which I dont particularly care for grows in North Carolina. people are asking a lot for their non updated homes and getting asking price or over because of the demand. Here are 10 reasons: 1. Top 10 Reasons not to move to Asheville, North Carolina. Asheville has an abundance of outdoor activities, great weather, and great food. Great town, great lifestyle, great views, great food, great people. With a generally comfortable climate year-round, Asheville gets an average of 212 sunny days, with a winter low of 25F and a summer high of 84F. Do your research. Surrounded by the stunning Appalachian and Blue Ridge mountains, Asheville is a mountain town through and through. I will be back for the beach and friends if I have any left after reading this. Like most folks, I assumed that buying a home in the south would be affordable, especially compared to the west. Stroll through downtown any random Saturday night and youre bound to see long lines spilling from venues, wrapping the block. #avlnews pic.twitter.com/jfUeXlZTCm, Jason Sandford (@Ashevegas) May 3, 2016. In fact, George enjoyed Asheville so much that he built Americas largest home, Biltmore Estate. Can't wait! Ive lived here for 20 years, and through all the changes, love it. In fact, neighborhoods make up, Asheville natives are notoriously unhappy with the hordes of transplants and visitors who flock to their beloved city. Asheville, N.C. is becoming known as a "safe city" when it comes to climate change. High housing costs impact those renting, as well. Rachel J. San Diego, CA. As you can imagine, not everyone is thrilled with new folks moving in because it drives up the price of housing and increases traffic congestion. If you are moving to Asheville or anywhere in Western North Carolina, I'd love to make the transition easier for you. Together with her husband, she has been spending the last several years lovingly renovating her grandparents former home, making it their own and learning a lot about life along the way. The average price of a home in Asheville is $427K, which is way too high when considering the average salary is $45K. 6. Hello, rock climbing gym, endless restaurants and cafes, a giant iron, and urban street art. You also dont want to miss this post about what its actually like living in Asheville, NC now. Im a Tampa native and I live in Baltimore with my husband and two toddlersmy husband is from Baltimore. Can you comment on the change of seasons? A decent house will cost you about $400 a square foot and rentals go for about $1,800 and up, even apartments. Housing Costs 2020 National Average $315,743 Asheville, NC $278,750. 5. This mix of fun personalities creates a very intriguing yet relaxed vibe to daily life in Asheville. Anyhoo, I am NOT fan at all and usually find "my people" quickly until I got here. Aloft Downtown Asheville If you are looking to stay in the heart of downtown Asheville, the Aloft hotel is newly renovated as of 2020. You can expect to pay at least $272,000 for a home when you move here. Mother Nature, you and I are going to be besties. Asheville is a beautiful place to call home. Top 10 Reasons to Move to Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains Asheville receives countless accolades for being one of the best places in the United States to live. 80. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.\" I DO NOT OWN ANY COPYRIGHTS. Theres 90,000 folks lucky enough to call Asheville home and the recent interest in the city comes with its fair share of growing pains. -it-in-Asheville-Podcast-Logo-Horizontal-Light-Text-1.png Sarah & Tony 2019-04-15 02:12:16 2020-08-20 22:54:29 Our Top 4 Reasons for Moving to Asheville. 2. On a scale of 100, with that number being the median housing cost in the United States, this city ranks at 145. Although its easy to forget when youre walking past a LaZoom tour bus filled with dudes dressed in drag, Asheville is still a southern town, which means inhabitants of the outskirts of the city still have traditional values and accents. 7. Because the city is more inland than other areas in North Carolina, hurricanes arent usually an issue. Unfortunately, we mostly went by our insurance and who was close to us in our neighborhood. You can go hiking and cycling all year long here since the winters tend to be fairly mild. You also should determine if the job opportunities are right for you. An abundance of outdoor activities, nice weather, good food, and a superb education system are the benefits of Asheville. If you see me at a brewery, be sure to say hello too! Definitely more of a autumn leaf change than states further down south get. You in?! If you like laid back and quiet cities, apparently this isn't your destination. But there is much more to Asheville than that. There is no real focal point to consider when living in Asheville. Make a lit cocktail. 2. Asheville definitely has a milder climate, and the mountains are just stunning. Very vibrant tailgate markets, can literally get all you need at markets. You can see how living in Asheville worked out here on Uncorked Asheville. Friendliest and happiest locals this side of the Mississippi 5. The idea of moving solo to Asheville makes me almost giggle cry like those Youtube video kids that get surprised with a Disney trip. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Thanks so much for such a great site! Asheville is very LGBTQ friendly, with wonderful medical care for all age LGBTQ. I am an old millennial; what can I say? Five boundaries comprise the community, so it isnt as quiet as you may think it could be. Let us know if you have any questions or are visiting Asheville. There are constantly water boil advisories due to the lack of modern infrastructure in this overblown town. Absolutely everything is expensive here. You dont even need to be a nature nut to enjoy this perk. High housing costs impact those renting, as well. $120,000 (Nationwide Delivery Available) $78,000. Any tips for choosing dentists, doctors, and pediatricians? But I travel often for work and having to rely on the Asheville Regional Airport is one of the biggest cons of living in Asheville. 1 "Best Hospital" in North Carolina for 2017 and 2018, and Mission Hospital ranked among the top 1% of "Best Hospitals" nationally in 2016 by Healthgrades. 1. Asheville is home to good food and offers many options to choose from. Rental is the same ridiculous cost as here, Im single, never married, and not one of those women who hunt for one either. Additionally, trying to enjoy a quiet trail can also be difficult due to the heavy traffic. Most of those rentals will not allow cats by the way so youll have to get rid of your beloved pets if you intend to sleep indoors. This non-profit organization awards restaurants for being environmentally responsible. Plus, you know about fall in Asheville, right? -If you were making 60,000 a year salary (pre-tax) in LA you would need a 40,743 salary to maintain your standard of living. It comes as no surprise, then, that everyone wants to be in Asheville; even those who don't live there. There is so much to see and do in Asheville during the holidays. 5. Everyone is completely normal, culture is not diverse at all. The fall is magical, and we love hitting the hiking trails and waterfalls. People who were born and raised here are fiercely loyal to and about their hometown. It is, but there is also WINE. P.S. It also means that youll be dealing with a lot of traffic during the busy season. The Blue Ridge Parkway 4. I live in Atlanta, so crime isnt the uncommon in the Metro Atlanta.) The traffic is insane, and although I am not a fatalist, driving there makes me want to take up religion. Thats still 50 points lower than Chapel Hill, but you can expect to pay at least $272,000 for a home when you start living here. The hospitality that the city radiates makes everyone feel like a local. . A drum circle in the square? Enjoy.. patreon:. Dont get me wrong, I couldnt imagine living in Asheville without a car, but its easy to get where I need to go. 3. The abundance of restaurants, outdoor activities, nice weather, and excellent education can benefit anyone looking to move there. Im wondering about high crime. Keep It Local., The Man, The Legend, Pouring Beers! As a local, I can confirm that Ashevilles breweries live up to the hype. Then members of his extended family, including his twin brother, moved back into the region to complete the settlement. None at all. 1898 Waverly Inn Bed and Breakfast While looking for houses in Asheville, we stayed at this sweet B&B in Hendersonville, NC (35-40 mins from Asheville closer to DuPont State Forest). I moved to Asheville with my car and cant imagine giving it up because the city is too spread out to walk (outside of the downtown core). 3. However, there are only four significant industries that provide the majority of jobs to the community. Asheville is the largest city in western North Carolina and home to about 90,000 people. Start here. How did this happen virtually overnight? If you love to travel, then Asheville can provide you with a regional hub that can get you to an international airport in no time at all. Top 10 10 reasons NOT to move to Asheville, North CarolinaTravel and Equipment Essentials:http://www.amazon.com/shop/worldaccordingtobriggsThanks for stopping by The world according to Briggs, I make lists. If nothing else, check out its amazing grounds and landscaping. With upwards of 30 craft breweries (that number is always changing), including the Southeastern headquarters of both Sierra Nevada and New Belgium breweries, Asheville is heaven for beer lovers and connoisseurs. Just toured new AC Hotel Asheville hotel under construction in downtown, set to open this fall. Before you decide to move to Asheville, you must consider your budget and if you can afford the area. Almost as quickly as a meteorologist announces an incoming snow event, grocery stores are wiped out of all bread and milk. One of the deal-sealers: the knit pig on the lamp post with the mountain sunset and bubble machine in front of the board game cafe (which sadly closed in 2020). Though we were only in Asheville for a short time, we did visit two major food highlights in town. We have relocation tips, neighborhood guides, and of course, endless articles on Asheville. I want more tolerable weather mostly, not hot and not a lot of snow. You are about 20 minutes from great hiking opportunities. Are you thinking of moving to Asheville, North Carolina? A wonderful, witty post. 10 Reasons to Move to Asheville Literary cocktails, champagne between the stacks, and books for sale? If you can't listen, here are her top 10 reasons below: 10. 10 reasons not to move to asheville, ncwhat is social demography in sociology. Its going to become one of your favorite places. Though Asheville is a charming area with a Southern feel, it boasts both pros and cons. The city is one of the most significant student communities in the United States for a city of its size. Those breathtaking mountains? After moving to Asheville, we traded in our annual Disney passes for Biltmore concerts and access to the grounds for the 22-miles of hiking, biking, and walking trails. The Zagat restaurant guide rated it Number 30 on its list of The 30 Most Exciting Food Cities in America in 2017. Whereas in Florida, I was a speed demon to stay alive with the aggressive and awful drivers, in NC, I am humbly slow. 296. flickr/John Rees. I do miss the beaches, though. Its getting more and more difficult to find a city where extreme temperatures dont make life challenging a few months out of the year. The reasons are countless, but some of the most common reasons people cite for retiring in Asheville are the beautiful weather, the incredible scenery, the opportunities for recreation, and the endless number of quality restaurants. Research the used 2021 Kia Sedona for sale in Jacksonville, NC. Thats because a slew of movies, including award winner Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, Dirty Dancing, The Fugitive,. It's the most wonderful time of the year in Asheville, North Carolina! There is also Montreat College, Mars Hill, Warren Wilson, and Brevard College as an alternative. Check out these 10 reasons NOT to live in Asheville, NC. Both bedrooms are on the second level with a jack and jill bathroom. Health services and private education are responsible for one out of every five jobs in the city. Nursing. Before the Europeans settled in the area during the colonial period, much of this region was the home of the Cherokee Nation. Because so many people want to live in Asheville, real estate is difficult to find. Nestled between the Appalachian and Blue Ridge mountains, Asheville is best known for outdoor recreation, hospitality, artsy residents and a robust music scene. Which way should I turn? It can be a challenge to get a table at your favorite restaurant or get into the mountains to enjoy a quiet trail at those times. Merely looking out your window while driving will expose you to breathtaking panoramic sights on a daily basis. The mountains are just a short drive away when you start living here, and then it is a quick day trip over to the beach if you need to cool down. We lived for Epcots Food and Wine Festival. Thisis pure gold. 20 Things You Need to Know Before Moving to Asheville, NC, 20 Things You Need to Know About Moving to Tallahassee, The Ultimate New York City Moving Day Playlist, The 5 Best Neighborhoods to Live in When You Move to Asheville in 2019, How to Sound Like a Local When You Move to Asheville, Where Everybody in Asheville is Moving From, Find Asheville, NC Warehouse Drop-Off Locations. If you are looking for a city that has a small-town feel, Asheville may not be the best option for you. I hope that helps! Of course, this isnt CA, and the number one question I receive from Californians moving to Asheville (and yes, there are a lot of you), is if the wine is any good. If you live in the eastern part of the city, or somewhere along the border of the national forest, then you might be able to walk to your favorite trailhead every day. Youve been warned, Asheville. It's time to take a stand. Asheville is a huge tourist destination, so that leads to constant conflict between residents and city council too many hotels vs not enough affordable housing, hiding crime rates as to not scare tourists, criminalizing those that are homeless instead of not realizing the rich tourist mentality is helping cause it. Fun Fact: The Biltmore is the largest house in America, a tour is very much in order. If you are visiting Asheville, be sure to enjoy these Airbnb stays, too. Asheville is also a hotbed of locally owned restaurants, and is often called a foodie paradise. The second day we landed in Asheville, NC, we booked it out the door to DuPont State Forest in search of The Hunger Games waterfalls. The unemployment rate in Asheville, NC is currently 3.8%. Hey there. If you hate that I ranked on Florida, well, dont let me know. The biggest employers are Mission Health System & Hospital, followed by the Buncombe County school district, but The Biltmore Company the business end of the massive estate built for millionaire George Vanderbilt has the service market cornered with its many hotels, shops, and restaurants. All told, using public transportation while living in Asheville usually doubles travel time. The heavy influx of traffic, especially during busy seasons, can pose a challenge to locals. Its an organized event where folks bang drums while others sway with the music. So, Florida, I am breaking up with you to move to Asheville, NC and heres why: Did you ever fly into a destination and just feel like you were home? As a partner, we highly recommend Sarah. You can also visit Lake Norman without much difficulty after you move here, see the Great Smoky Mountains, or get wet at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Of course, these are reasons for anyone moving and retiring to Asheville! Dont get me wrong, I enjoy Floridas beautiful beaches, owning a pool, and the fact that everything is open 24/7 for snowbirds and retirees. Unfortunately, Zelda perished in the Highlands Hospital fire so maybe moving to Asheville wasnt so great for her. On. In fact, there is a large Shop Small movement here known as Asheville Grown, which encourages residents to Love Asheville. However, there are many ways to save money if you know your way around. The number one reason we are moving to Asheville, North Carolina is because of those bluish-green mountains. Surrounded by long-range views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and acres of preserved natural space, this planned community offers an escape into nature. This is the most common reason to move for younger people. Required fields are marked *. Hi Angela, Thank you for the kind note. For those that strive to live an active lifestyle, the hiking opportunities will feel endless. The Weather 1. If you enjoy living in a city that brings its history to life, then Asheville is going to cause you to struggle. Dont know a soul, but feel confident that I will meet new folks through church. Put your thumbs away; I didnt coin that truth. Thanks for understanding. the census also notes the median income in asheville, nc is around $50,000. Also, I signed up for your blog. Which means youll be living in a city full of unique personalities, like artists, foodies and coffee/brew- aficionados. Its hard to escape the live music scene while living in Asheville, so its best to embrace it. (@ Funkatorium in Asheville, NC) https://t.co/JSBueCsGbk pic.twitter.com/PLrJ76q14Q, BCB Brewmaster (@BoxingCatMike) April 28, 2018. Drivers are real bunch of sons of beaches! If you are traveling to Asheville, be sure to check out our Asheville-based blog, Uncorked Asheville. Asheville residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to playing outside. I to am looking at Asheville to retire. Thats too many yuppie words for me to comprehend in one sentence. The crime rate is 59 per one thousand residents. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, opportunities to try new craft beers, and you have access to an excellent educational foundation. One local real estate professional shares the top 10 reasons why so many people relocate to Houston. You may want to take an internship in a big company, learn a new craft or trade for a job in the future, and move for that reason. Outdoorsy folk thrive as well as artists, digital nomads, and writers. Because of its location in the Appalachian Mountains, more than 9 million people come to Asheville every year. Asheville actually has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes. Dim sum tapas? This is especially true if youre trying to get a table at your favorite restaurant. Sarah Resta is an international and local Asheville engagement and wedding photographer for Sarah Resta Photography. Its not uncommon to walk into your local cafe and be greeted by name (if you visit often enough) or have people ask about your weekend. Isnt Asheville home to all of the craft beer? You can walk into downtown Hendersonville. Another benefit of living in Asheville is that the weather is always the perfect temperature to enjoy the outdoors. Reasons NOT to Live in Asheville 1. Its odd and interesting and downright weird something you wont want to miss. Ask nearly any non-native Ashevillian how they found the place, and theyll likely say they came for a visit and fell in love. Asheville does have several modes of transportation, though they are most abundant for tourists. Business North Carolina ranked Mission Hospital the No. (But Im also looking at remote position with only 25% travel.) The only problem to consider is money. In 2018, those figures dropped to $316,000 and 66 respectively. The average cost of a home sold in Asheville in 2017 was over $320,000 based on over 600 sales, with the average time on the market being 70 days. Asheville is one of the most significant student communities in the United states for a community of its size. Please join our community as we wander around the tipsy world reading books and watching movies to inspire travel. Asheville Floor Lamp in Bronze Finish with Tiffany Glass Shade. The summers can get hot when you start living in North Carolina, but that just means you have the perfect opportunity to get outside. Please contact Greybeard Rentals at to schedule a showing. Average winter temperatures hover around 50F, which means bone-chilling winters won't be moving to Asheville with you. The house was a tank. Speaking of weather: Hello, seasons; my old friend. Most weekends dont officially start until a hearty hike is capped with brunch. Travel and Equipment Essentials: Thanks for stopping by The world according to Briggs, I make lists. When you start living in Asheville, and you are about 20 minutes from a world-class hiking opportunity. There are 15 vineyards within 15 miles of downtown Asheville. I will be renting an apartment and they are pricey. Ive lived in Asheville for the past 6+ years yet still find myself pleasantly surprised by this progressive and artsy city. This Asheville blog is perfect for Asheville newbies, vacationers, travelers, and anyone considering a move to Asheville, NC. We actually lived pretty close to Daytona. Imagine four kitty stockings hanging on the mantle during a white Christmas which we had in 2020. With ever-increasing options and mobility across the country and the world, it seems like you're the odd one out if you haven't moved to a new city at least once (as mentioned in this blog post !). This issue impacts rental costs as well. Theres no denying that one of the biggest draws of living in Asheville is having access to epic outdoor recreation. Asheville ranks 145 in the United States for median housing cost. Now we're going to give an explanation for how you may restore the [pii_email_e6af9796c02919183edc] blunders code on your e-mail Outlook. Not just lists of random stuff, I make them about states, cities, towns and other places in the United States. I find the mountains inspirational just like Johnny Depp in Secret Window beforeit all goes wrong. These are my favorite North Carolina books so far.