An Essential Guide to The Best Best Mountain Cities in North Carolina for Elevated Living

About Asheville, NC

If looking to live in the middle of a major city surrounded by the North Carolina mountains, Asheville is likely your best bet. The city has a population of about 95,000, which expands to about 417, 000 when you count the entire metro area (MSA). This encompasses the Buncombe, Henderson, and Madison counties, including the cities and towns of Hendersonville, Waynesville, Biltmore Forest, Black Mountain, Flat Rock, Fletcher, Maggie Valley, Mills River, and Weaverville to name a few. While the city is small in comparison to New York or Chicago, Asheville is the largest urban area in the mountainous region of North Carolina. That said, Charlotte, NC, which has a population of about 950,000 (the largest urban area in the state), is about two hours from Asheville or a quick flight from the Asheville Regional Airport (AVL).

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and adjacent to the French Broad River, the allure of Asheville is multifaceted. The area's Natural beauty is readily accessible via the Blue Ridge Parkway scenic drive, Pisgah National Forest access points, riverfront, and countless parks and trails without leaving city limits. This is ideal for nature lovers who love angling, boating, hiking, cycling, swimming, and other outdoor activities.

The city is also famous for its history, featuring many historic buildings including the "world's largest private home," The Biltmore Estate. A popular tourist destination, the property is also the site of concerts and events, trails for hiking and cycling, shopping, and a winery. Of course, the town of Biltmore Forest, built on land that was once part of the Vanderbilts' estate, has attracted countless high-end buyers with its stately Edwardian homes set amongst mature flora, exclusive private golf club, and timeless atmosphere. 

The city's dynamic cultural scene is yet another draw. From award-winning craft breweries and James Beard Award-winning Spanish cuisine to a nationally-recognized music scene and rich tradition of functional arts, there are countless opportunities to experience the arts.

On a more practical note, Asheville residents appreciate that beyond the flash and fun, this smaller city is able to provide day-to-day amenities to keep their lives running smoothly. Nearly anywhere in the world can be reached from the Asheville Regional Airport via a connecting flight through nearby Charlotte or Atlanta, and many luxury communities in the area are only a short drive from it. The city also boasts one of the finest hospitals in the state: Mission Hospital, which was named number one by Business North Carolina in 2020, as well as other hospitals, clinics, concierge services, and wellness practitioners. The University of North Carolina Asheville is ranked 9th in the country for public schools by US News and World Report and features the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, which offers continuing learning opportunities.

For those seeking a luxury residence in an Asheville zip code, there are many options suited to a diversity of tastes, including:

Historic neighborhoods

• Grove Park: ideal for those seeking a neighborhood with a more urban feel with housing options ranging from historic homes to luxury apartments. It centers around the Omni Grove Park Inn, a resort that has played host to presidents and diplomats and features both a spa and fine dining.
• The Town of Biltmore Forest: a historic district that has incorporated as an independent small town within Asheville; ideal for those interested in a stately home in a lush, forested neighborhood that makes you feel like you've travelled back in time.
• Lakeshore Heights: a walkable neighborhood in North Asheville featuring a mix of older homes, including grand plantation- and European-style houses, close to Beaver Lake and the adjoining Audobon Sanctuary. It is also near the Country Club of Asheville: the local private golf course and social center.
  
  

Private residential communities

• The Ramble at Biltmore Forest: A gated community at Ducker Mountain, just minutes from downtown. It is heavily forested and features newer luxury homes, a wellness center, a private park, and trail system.
• Biltmore Park: A mixed-use, master-planned community offering luxury homes, townhomes, and condos within a new shopping and entertainment district designed to be walkable and sustainable.
• Poplar Ridge: A no-frills gated community that offers luxury homes and security without the club fees on the edge of Asheville.
• Thom’s Estate: A north Asheville gated, master-planned community with a natural focus, featuring community gardens, trails, and sports courts.

New luxury developments

• Elk View: up into the mountains on the north edge of town, this exclusive development of eco-friendly modern homes is being built on a ridge overlooking the city. Every property has mountain views, a unique design, and a location convenient to town. They are available as both residential and rental property investments.

About Arden, NC

Arden, NC, is an unincorporated suburb of Asheville, part of a booming area that locals sometimes call "South Asheville," which boasts many new developments and some of the city's finest scenery. The area is home to a large selection of highly-regarded public and private schools for all ages, natural areas like the Bent Creek Experimental Forest and Lake Julian Park. Meanwhile, daily essentials and dining can be found in the community's commercial district.

Perhaps the largest draw for luxury buyers in Arden is the large and luxurious Cliffs at Walnut Cove gated community. It boasts stunning mountain scenery and a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, an award-winning clubhouse, wellness center, extensive hiking trails, and dining options. Buyers can choose from single-family homes, townhomes, or lots and acreage. Some of these are situated in unique enclaves with distinct offerings, such as lock and leave homes with outdoor maintenance, European-style cottages, or mountain cabins in the woods. The community covers thousands of acres next to the 715-acre Turtleback Falls Preserve.

About Hendersonville, NC

Hendersonville is a vibrant tourist destination known for its apple orchards and culinary delights. The town offers a variety of attractions, including museums, shops, restaurants, cideries, wineries, and breweries. Throughout the year, residents and visitors alike enjoy exciting events like the NC Apple Festival and Garden Jubilee, ensuring there's always something fun to do.

Luxury buyers interested in settling here should consider the Champion Hills gated golf community. It features a Tom Fazio-designed golf course, praised as one of his finest works, along with golf groups, a driving range, a putting green, club events, and a luxurious clubhouse with dining options. For non-golfers, the community also offers a fitness and wellness center, tennis courts, and 17 miles of hiking trails, plus various programs and clubs for diverse interests.