UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.
Asheville, NC is the #19 Best City to Live in the USA
| Asheville, NC Quality of Life Liv Score 640 How We Calculate Our Data |
|---|
| Civics | 50 |
| Demographics | 59 |
| Economy | 68 |
| Education | 70 |
| Health | 66 |
| Housing | 45 |
| Infrastructure | 47 |
| Amenities | 70 |
Why Asheville is one of the best cities to live in
Breweries galore, award-winning chefs pushing culinary boundaries, and the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains are all part of Asheville, NC’s magic. Asheville – which has a community-wide love for the arts plus a walkable downtown with shops, galleries and good eats – ranks among one of the best places to live in the U.S. because of its coveted mountain town amenities. It’s no wonder this vibrant city of 94,000 (plus lots of dogs!) has a knack for converting tourists to residents.
Asheville consistently ranks on our Best Places to Live lists, and it’s easy to see why. The city is the world’s first Foodtopian Society and is known as ”Beer City USA,” as it boasts more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city. From national favorites like the Biltmore Estate and the Blue Ridge Parkway to off-the-beaten-path spots waiting to be discovered, there is something for everyone in this eclectic city.
From health care and technology to arts, culture and tourism, Asheville’s economy is robust. Mission Health, Ingles Markets, and the Veterans Administration are some of the city’s major employers.
University of North Carolina – Asheville
Locals love to cool down by floating in the rivers during the summers. Winter is chilly, but it’s a short season.
Pisgah National Forest has an all-natural, 60-foot waterslide that empties into a pool of water.
Asheville, NC is Remote-Ready
Residents of Asheville have access to a variety of coworking spaces, cool coffee shops and libraries to boot. But what sets the city apart as a haven for remote workers are the ample networking opportunities available for professionals. 1 Million Cups is a free program designed to educate, inspire and engage entrepreneurs and hosts regular workshops, coffee chats and programs to help remote workers plug into their communities.
What Locals Love in Asheville, NC
Oenophiles who are also bibliophiles will feel right at home at Battery Park Book Exchange, which has a champagne bar inside the store.
Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is known as ”America’s favorite drive.” The 469-mile scenic road cuts through Asheville. You can drive the parkway or get out and hike or bike along the many trails.
Hike to a new waterfall every month. There are hundreds of gorgeous cascades near Asheville, including many along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Rye Knot is a brewery and distillery that makes for a perfect post-work gathering space. You can even take home a cut of meat from the curing cabinet and make a tasty steak at home.
Asheville has a little bit of quirk, too. A drum circle sets the soundtrack for Friday nights downtown.
A love for the arts, plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, and an amazing food and drink scene make Asheville a best place to live in North Carolina.
Thinking of Moving to Asheville?
The value of Asheville, NC real estate is a reflection of the natural splendor that surrounds it. If you’re looking for your mountain retreat, the homes for sale in Asheville, NC will keep you close to the great outdoors. With the right real estate agent, anyone can find the perfect property in Asheville thanks to accessibility of the Asheville real estate, which is priced just a bit above nationwide averages. For downtown excitement, check out homes in the River Arts District just west of the city center. There you’ll be close to all the great live music that Asheville is famous for.
Quick Facts About Asheville, NC
- Average Commute
- 17.84
- Median Home Value
- $376,474
- Med. Household Income
- $57,315
- Total Population
- 96,391
- Walk Score
- 35
- Median Property Tax
- $1,583
