North Carolina consistently ranks among the top 5 (and sometimes even the top 3) most popular destinations to move to in the U.S. Its appealing weather and lower cost of living have attracted many people, mainly from colder and more expensive regions throughout the country.
But then the question becomes—where in North Carolina should you move to?
Are you drawn to the coastal areas? Perhaps you have a particular interest in The Triangle in the Piedmont region? We may be a little biased when we say Western North Carolina is the best place to live, but we’ll provide you with some pretty convincing reasons why.
Explore >>> The Moving Out of State Checklist
7 Good Reasons to Move to Western North Carolina
Affordable Cost of Living
Western NC's affordability makes it an ideal destination for living comfortably without breaking the bank. With living costs below the national average, your dollar stretches further here, allowing for savings on essentials like housing, healthcare, groceries, and entertainment. Additionally, according to The Tax Foundation, North Carolina's property tax is ranked 36th in the country, making homeownership more attainable and sustainable. The lower cost of living also enables residents to consider larger homes, property investments, or building custom homes, which might be out of budget in other regions.
Comfortable Climate
Western North Carolina offers a comfortable climate, a refreshing change from the humidity and mild seasons in other parts of the state. Here, you can experience the beauty of all four seasons in their full glory—spring blooms without excessive pollen, summers are cooler with low humidity, and winters bring occasional snowfalls. The year's highlight is undoubtedly autumn when the mountains are ablaze with vibrant colors. This distinct seasonal variation and pleasant weather create an environment where you can truly enjoy the outdoors year-round.
Outdoor Fun
The diverse natural landscape and favorable local weather make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Golfing, biking, hiking, camping, numerous trails, and fishing spots only scratch the surface when it comes to Western North Carolina outdoor fun. There are so many outdoor adventures that you'll never run out of things to do. Solo travelers can immerse themselves in nature, couples can escape to romantic retreats, and families can enjoy fun-filled weekends together. Not exactly the "outdoorsy" type? The area boasts epic shopping that might just make you wish you had moved here sooner. Western NC's great outdoors offers something for everyone, regardless of season.
Incredible Cities to Hang Out in
Living in Western North Carolina puts you within easy reach of vibrant cities like Asheville, Hendersonville, Greenville, and Lake Lure. These cities offer a rich blend of culture, dining, and entertainment, with all the amenities you'd expect from larger urban areas but with a more relaxed, small-town feel. Whether you're looking for an affordable weekend getaway or a night out on the town, these cities have plenty of options for wining, dining, and dancing.
Vibrant Local Communities
Western North Carolina is a melting pot of vibrant local communities where you'll always have interesting people to meet and events to attend. The area is known for its small-town charm, with friendly and welcoming residents who take pride in their community, making it easy for newcomers to settle in and form lasting friendships. The towns have quaint shops, cozy cafes, unique art galleries, craft breweries, and delightful restaurants. Many are pedestrian-friendly and feature beautiful parks, encouraging an active, social lifestyle. Whether you're a retiree seeking an active social life or a family looking for a close-knit community, Western NC's mountain towns provide a warm and inviting atmosphere.
A Calmer, Cooler Alternative to Florida
While Florida has long been the go-to destination for retirees, many are discovering that Western North Carolina might be a better fit. Some find Florida's constant sunshine and heat overwhelming, not to mention the high humidity. Western NC, on the other hand, offers a more temperate climate with distinct seasons. The lower risk of hurricanes and flooding in the mountains translates to more affordable homeowner's insurance too. Also, unlike Florida's tourist-heavy areas, which often mean increased traffic and congestion, Western NC offers a more relaxed pace of life. The region still provides plenty of amenities and activities for retirees but without the overcrowded feel of popular Florida retirement spots. In other words, for those who want to warm up in the Southern weather while staying centrally located on the East Coast, Western NC provides a perfect middle ground, allowing retirees to enjoy their golden years in a peaceful and picturesque setting.
Discover >>> 4 Reasons To Retire In Western North Carolina
A Relaxing Living Environment
For those seeking a break from the fast-paced, hectic city life, Western North Carolina offers a serene and peaceful living environment. The mountains provide a natural backdrop that encourages a slower pace of life, allowing residents to savor the simple pleasures. Here, you can take your time to enjoy the little things — whether it's a quiet morning on the porch, a leisurely hike in the woods, or simply appreciating the stunning views surrounding you. The relaxed atmosphere of Western NC makes it an ideal place for anyone looking to unwind and embrace a more tranquil way of living.
Live to the Fullest in Western North Carolina
We here at Vista Developers are here to help you enjoy every part of life in Western NC, so when you choose to live in one of Vista Developers' communities, you’re choosing to live in a dream home in a dream area of the Southeast.
If you're interested in starting a new chapter in your life, we'd love to help you write it. Click the banner below to see our floor plan options, give us a call at (866) 519-2400, or contact us online today!
