Last Updated on January 23, 2023 by Filip Poutintsev
Asheville, NC, is a beautiful city in the Western North Carolina mountains. It’s no wonder it’s become a popular destination for people looking to relocate. There are many pros to living in Asheville, but there are also some cons you should be aware of before making a decision.
This blog post will outline the pros and cons of living in Asheville so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s the right place for you.
Pros and cons of living in Asheville, NC, at a glance
Pros
- Natural beauty and outdoor activities
- Mild weather year-round
- Thriving art and food scene
- Few natural disasters compared to the rest of the state
- Good education system
Cons
- Heavy traffic
- Quiet Nightlife
- High housing prices
- Lack of diversity
- Limited job opportunities
Pros of living in Asheville, North Carolina
Natural beauty and outdoor activities
Asheville is nestled right in the middle of the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, which means that there are endless opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping.
Hiking is a popular activity in the Asheville area. There are many trails to explore, including those near Mt. Mitchell State Park.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is also a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The parkway stretches for 469 miles and offers views of the Appalachian Mountains. Other popular outdoor activities in the Asheville area include mountain biking, kayaking, and camping.
There are also many waterfalls in the area, which attract visitors from all over the country. Whether you’re driving to work or just taking a leisurely stroll downtown, you’ll be surrounded by incredible mountain vistas.
There’s no shortage of things to do when you relocate to Asheville. The mountains are only a short drive away, and the ocean is only a day trip away if you need to cool off. After you relocate to Asheville, you may easily explore Lake Norman, the Great Smoky Mountains, or get wet at the US National Whitewater Center.
And if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can always take a trip to the Biltmore Estate. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone in Asheville.
Mild weather year-round
Asheville, North Carolina, is known for its mild weather. The average high in July is only 85 degrees, and the average low in January is a mere 28 degrees. This is due to Asheville’s location in the mountains.
The higher altitude acts as a natural air conditioner, making the summers not as hot and the winters not as cold. As a result, Asheville is a popular destination for those looking to escape the extreme heat or cold of other parts of the country.
Thriving art and food scene
The city of Asheville is well known for its many excellent restaurants. Whether you are looking for fine dining or a more casual atmosphere, you will find a great place to eat in Asheville. In addition to the great food, Asheville is also home to many breweries. In fact, there are more breweries per capita in Asheville than in any other city in the United States.
If you are a craft beer fan, you will definitely want to check out some of the local breweries during your stay in Asheville. In addition to the great food and beer, another reason to love Asheville is the vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to many art galleries, museums, and live music venues. There is always something new to see and do in Asheville.
Few natural disasters compared to the rest of the state.
Asheville is relatively safe from natural disasters compared to other areas of the country. The mountains protect from wildfires, tornadoes, and hurricanes. And while the area does get a lot of rain, it is usually spread out over the course of the year and rarely causes flooding problems.
As a result, Asheville is a great place to live if you are looking for a community protected from many dangers that nature can bring.
Good education system
Asheville is home to four colleges and universities, making it an exceptional environment for American students. You can easily commute from your house to UNC Asheville, Western Carolina University, WCU at Biltmore Park, and Appalachian State University.
These institutions provide a variety of learning opportunities for students of all levels. The community college can provide an introduction to higher education for those just starting out, while the universities offer advanced degrees for those seeking to further their knowledge.
In addition, the colleges and universities in Asheville offer a variety of extracurricular activities and programs that allow students to get involved in the community. This makes Asheville an ideal place to live for those who are looking for an enriching and challenging academic environment.
Cons of living in Ashville, North Carolina
Heavy traffic
Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, Asheville is a popular tourist destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The city is home to many scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and lookout points, as well as a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and breweries. More than 9 million people visit Asheville every year, drawn in by its natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere.
While tourism is great for the local economy, it can also be a source of frustration for residents who have to deal with increased traffic and noise levels.
Quiet Nightlife
If you’re looking for a bustling nightlife scene, then Asheville might not be the right city for you. Don’t get us wrong – there are some great bars and clubs in Asheville, but compared to other cities its size, the nightlife scene here is definitely on the smaller side. So if you’re someone who likes to let loose and party on the weekends, you might want to look elsewhere.
High housing prices
The median home price in Asheville is $272,000, which is significantly higher than the state average, making it one of the most expensive places to live in the state. Renters can also expect to pay more than average for their apartments or homes.
In fact, Asheville ranks as one of the most expensive rental markets in North Carolina. If you are looking for an affordable place to live, Asheville may not be your best option. Other cities with cheaper housing options may better suit your needs and budget.
Lack of diversity
According to the most recent census data, Asheville’s population is primarily non-immigrant, white, middle-class Americans. While there is a small population of Hispanics and African Americans, they comprise a relatively small percentage of the overall population.
Additionally, the median household income is over $50,000, which is higher than the national average. This lack of diversity can lead to feelings of isolation and exclusion for those who don’t fit into the dominant group.
Limited job opportunities
The unemployment rate in Asheville is 3.8%, which is lower than the state average of 4.5% and the national average of 4.9%. However, the majority of jobs in Asheville are concentrated in four industries: health services, private education, retail trade, and accommodation & food services. Together, these industries account for nearly 60% of all jobs in the city.
Health services and private education are particularly important, contributing to one out of every five jobs in Asheville. While the concentration of jobs in these industries provides some stability, it also makes the local economy vulnerable to changes in these sectors.
For example, a downturn in the health care industry would likely have a significant impact on employment in Asheville. As a result, diversifying the local economy is essential for ensuring long-term prosperity.
FAQ
When is the best time of year in Asheville?
While many people think of Asheville as a summer location, locals say the transitional seasons are ideal. Temperatures range between the high 50s and the mid-70s from March to May and September to early November, making it excellent for enjoying the outdoors. Because it is not peak season, there are also fewer tourists.
What is Ashville most famous for?
The city is home to the iconic Biltmore Estate and a thriving craft beer scene. Asheville is also known for its lively music, arts scene, and vibrant downtown area.
Is Asheville an expensive city to live in?
According to current data, Asheville, NC, has a cost of living that is 8% more than the state average and 4% higher than the national average. The most expensive items are housing and utilities, which cost 11% and 6% more than the national median. Other expenses, such as transport and healthcare, are just slightly above the national average.
Do you need a car when living in Asheville?
Asheville is a small, linear town. You may remain downtown without a car and enjoy everything it offers. You may also take an Uber up to the Biltmore Estate, but if you want to explore the surrounding areas, you’ll need a car.
What is staying in downtown Asheville like?
Look no further than downtown Asheville for the liveliest area of town. This chic neighborhood is filled with one-of-a-kind stores and some of the top eateries in town. Art galleries, boutiques, and record stores abound, and there’s always something new to discover.
Conclusion
Asheville is a city located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. It is the county seat of Buncombe County and the largest city in Western North Carolina, with a population of 94,589 people. Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture.
The Downtown Art District is filled with galleries and museums, and in the nearby River Arts District, former factory buildings house artists’ studios. In addition to its arts and cultural offerings, Asheville is also home to many colleges and universities and a thriving medical and healthcare community.
The city has an urban feel, which can be generally more fast-paced than the surrounding suburban areas but not as fast-paced as more extremely packed cities.
Asheville, North Carolina, is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. The weather is pleasant, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, and the food is excellent. In addition, the education system is excellent, with many high-quality schools to choose from.
However, there are also some drawbacks to living in Asheville. Traffic can be heavy at times, making it difficult to get around. Housing costs are also high, which can be challenge to families on a tight budget.
In addition, employment opportunities may be limited in some areas. And finally, while there are many great neighbourhoods in Asheville, there is no true downtown area. Despite these flaws, Asheville remains a great place to live.
