Asheville, NC
Why You’ll Love Living in Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina, has developed a reputation as a vibrant, welcoming community with an artistic bent. You’ll not only find a flourishing art scene and makers of every stripe but also more than 30 breweries and tons of unique eateries. Pup owners can take their fluffy friends just about anywhere, as Asheville is known as one of the best dog-friendly cities in America. And outdoor pursuits are easily accessible. Adventure seekers can go whitewater rafting, horseback riding, ziplining, mountain biking and more.
Thinking of moving to Asheville, NC? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Asheville, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Asheville, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Asheville, NC, a Best Place to Live in 2024
There’s so much to love about Asheville, NC; it’s no wonder the city is one of the best places to live in the U.S. For starters, the city of more than 95,000 is in a beautiful setting, surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. Plus, there’s a fun and funky vibe here, with eclectic shops and galleries (in a walkable downtown!), trend-setting independent restaurants, a top-notch craft beer scene, art deco architecture, and festivals that celebrate anything and everything.
Did we mention the outdoors? Besides the scenic mountains, you can access the French Broad River, find breathtaking waterfalls nearby and engage in play to your heart’s content in the city’s parks and greenways. The stunning Biltmore Estate and Blue Ridge Parkway are not to be missed, a treat for residents and visitors alike. A drum circle with dogs and dancing takes place downtown on Friday nights, street performers are always ready for a photo op, and dogs dine with their humans everywhere in this city, which is definitely a part of its allure. Incredibly, there are more than 300 locally owned stores and eateries serving up an array of great finds and great food. This mountain town attracts both young professionals and retirees, with a strong job market in the education, health care, retail and hospitality sectors.
Asheville, NC Quality of Life LivScore
Asheville, NC Top Categories
Environment
Transportation
Amenities
Asheville ranks highest for environment, transportation and amenities.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Asheville, NC
Summers are warm and humid (cool down with a river float or cold pint!), and winters are cold, but they don’t last long. Spring brings pretty blooms, and the fall foliage in the Blue Ridge Mountains is a must-see. The average highs and lows are 84°F and 63°F (summer) and 49°F and 30°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Asheville is 18 inches.
The average annual rainfall in Asheville is 40 inches, and July is typically the wettest month.
Asheville averages 200 sunny days a year.
More than 120 miles of trails wind through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Tackle the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, a 4.8-mile out-and-back hike with a few creek crossings that former President Barack Obama has done before. Or explore the great outdoors at Pisgah National Forest. Home to hundreds of miles of hiking trails, mile-high mountain tops and whitewater rivers, the forest is only 10 minutes from the city center.
Things To Do in Asheville, NC
Dance to the beats of the Asheville Drum Circle, an informal gathering on Friday evenings in downtown Pritchard Park.
The Asheville Museum of Science captivates budding minds with its exhibits showcasing all the wonders of the natural world. Outdoor enthusiasts often rave over the North Carolina Arboretum, a hot spot where families can explore themed gardens and dive into all kinds of educational programs. The WNC Nature Center is another popular place with a reputation for teaching visitors about the area’s abundant native wildlife.
One of Asheville’s best-kept secrets is the Asheville Botanical Gardens. Tucked away near the University of North Carolina – Asheville, this hidden gem is home to a diverse collection of native Southern Appalachian plants and provides a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Lexington Avenue is lined with boutiques, vintage shops, hemp stores and more. Be sure to pop into Lexington Glassworks to watch glass-blowing magic and shop colorful housewares. Then, end your afternoon by walking to The Chocolate Fetish for a sweet treat. The chocolate shop features award-winning, handmade chocolates and truffles.
At Chai Pani, share nibbles and snacks that are reminiscent of those served by street vendors throughout India. Chai Pani even won a coveted James Beard “Outstanding Restaurant” award.
Asheville is known throughout the region for its phenomenal arts and music scene. One of the standout venues for live music is The Orange Peel. Located in the heart of downtown Asheville, this iconic venue has earned quite the reputation as one of the best places to catch a show. The venue has hosted iconic artists like Bob Dylan and Joan Jett, as well as local and up-and-coming artists.
When you can’t decide between happy hour or a caffeinated pick-me-up, head to The Times Bar and Coffee Shop, which serves classic cocktails, craft coffee and boozy caffeinated drinks.
The Local and State Economy in Asheville, NC
Asheville has a dynamic economy with several key industries, including health care, tourism and manufacturing. Some notable employers are Mission Health System, Buncombe County Schools and The Biltmore Company.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Asheville is 7%.
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax.
Mission Hospital is the largest hospital in the region and is nationally recognized for its quality of care. The hospital is also highly rated in several specialties and procedures, including cardiology, orthopedics and urology.
There are several colleges and universities in Asheville, NC, but the University of North Carolina – Asheville is the most notable.
Weather in Asheville, NC
Average Temperatures
67 High / 45 Low
Average Annual Rainfall
40 Inches
Average Annual Snowfall
18 Inches
Quick Facts about Asheville, North Carolina
- Median Home Value
- $373,141
- Median Property Tax
- $2,503
- Total Population
- 95,340
- Average Commute
- 18 min
- Median Household Income
- $67,374
- Median Rent per Month
- $1,082
Map of Asheville, NC
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