Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and caressed by the waters of the French Broad River, Asheville, NC has always been a magnet for nature enthusiasts and wanderers. Ask any transplant to Asheville about their journey, and youโll often hear a tale of a brief visit turned lifelong romance.
Before you hitch your compact abode and settle in the heart of AVL, there are some nuggets of wisdom you ought to be privy to.
What To Know
1. Locals play hard to get!
If the natives seem a tad frosty at first, donโt sweat it! Itโs not you, itโs just their way of showing hometown pride.
Theyโre head over heels for their mountain vibes, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. And hey, once you bond over the cityโs DIY spirit, youโll be in the inner circle in no time!
2. Keep it in the family!
Asheville is all about that local love. Big chains? Meh. But local businesses? Theyโre the real MVPs here. So, if youโre thinking of grabbing a bite or going shopping, remember the cityโs mantra: โLove Asheville. Keep It Local.โ And trust us, with the Asheville Grown movement, shopping small has never felt so good!
3. Cheers to Beersville!
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If youโre thirsty, youโre in luck! With a brewery count thatโs always on the rise (currently hovering around 30), including big names like Sierra Nevada and New Belgium, Asheville is basically the Willy Wonka factory for beer enthusiasts. So, grab a pint and dive into the frothy goodness!
4. Feast in Flavorville!
Hungry? Ashevilleโs got you covered! Often dubbed the โfoodie wonderland,โ this city is bursting with mouth-watering eateries. With over 700 restaurants, you can travel the world on a plate โ from tantalizing Thai to exquisite Ethiopian, fancy French, and soul-soothing Southern delights.
And hey, when Zagat says itโs one of the most exciting food cities, you know youโre in for a treat!
5. Traffic Tango!
Driving in Asheville? Brace yourself for a dance with traffic! As this gem of a city grows, so do the number of cars on the road. With a population nearing 90,000, it sometimes feels like a grand parade on the streets. But hey, itโs all part of the cityโs charm, right?
6. Subaru Squad!
Want to blend in with the Asheville crowd? Get yourself a Subaru! While it might sound clichรฉ, these cars are the unofficial mascots of the cityโs roads. Known for their rugged charm and eco-friendly vibes, youโll often spot them flaunting a medley of political stickers. So, if youโre looking to fit right in, you know what to drive!
7. Snow? More like Snow-No!
While snowfall isnโt a frequent guest in Asheville, when it does decide to visit, the city turns into a scene straight out of a comedy movie. Just a whisper of snow sends everyone rushing to the grocery stores, emptying shelves of bread and milk faster than you can say โsnowflake.โ If the ground gets a fluffy white blanket thicker than a couple of inches, consider it a city-wide snow day!
8. Rainbow Vibes Everywhere!
Asheville wears its rainbow colors with pride! Boasting an LGBTQ+ community thatโs off the charts, this city is a beacon of love and acceptance. The Blue Ridge Pride Festival is a must-visit, drawing over 10,000 attendees every October. And fun fact: Asheville was quick to embrace love, hosting the stateโs first gay wedding the moment it became legal in 2015.
9. Job Hunt? Consider It Done!
Whether youโre into healthcare, education, or the service industry, Ashevilleโs got a spot for you. Major employers include the Mission Health System & Hospital and the Buncombe County school district. But if youโre looking for a touch of luxury, The Biltmore Company, with its grand estate and myriad of businesses, is where itโs at!
10. Furry Friends Galore!
Asheville isnโt just for humans; itโs a paradise for pets too! From dogs to cats, goats, and even chickens, this city welcomes them all with open arms. Many establishments roll out the red carpet (or should we say, the furry carpet?) for our four-legged buddies. With water bowls dotting storefronts, special pet menus at eateries, and the honor of housing the first official Dog Welcome Center in the U.S., Asheville truly is a pet loverโs dream!
11. Hotel Boomtown!
Ashevilleโs skyline is getting a makeover with new hotels sprouting up like mushrooms after rain. But remember, the locals arenโt exactly throwing a party about it (refer back to point #1 for a refresher).
12. Home Sweetโฆ Wait, Where?
With everyone wanting a piece of Asheville, finding a place to call home is like hunting for a needle in a haystack. But fear not! New apartments are rising from the ground, ready to welcome the cityโs newest residents.
13. Dig Deep into Those Pockets!
Living in Asheville might require a bit of a financial stretch. With the housing market tighter than a hipsterโs jeans, homes come with a hefty price tag. The going rate? A cool $272,000 on average, and thatโs just the starting bid!
14. Southern Charm with a Twist!
Amidst the quirky LaZoom tour buses and the vibrant city life, Asheville hasnโt forgotten its southern roots. Venture a bit outside the city center, and youโll be greeted with good olโ southern accents and traditional values.
15. Veggie Vibes Everywhere!
Asheville is a paradise for plant-lovers! Not one, but TWO festivals celebrate the green lifestyle: Asheville VegFest and Asheville VeganFest. Whether youโre a full-fledged vegan, a curious vegetarian, or just someone looking for a tasty plant-based meal, Ashevilleโs got a plate waiting for you.
16. Adventureโs Calling, Will You Answer?
Why stay indoors when Ashevilleโs great outdoors beckons? Whether youโre scaling mountains, biking scenic trails, navigating rapids, or simply taking a leisurely walk in Carrier Park, the city promises a dose of adrenaline or tranquility, whichever you seek. And with the majestic Blue Ridge Parkway just a stoneโs throw away, every day can be an adventure!
17. A Canvas Called Asheville.
Art isnโt just confined to galleries here; itโs in the very soul of the city. The River Arts District is a treasure trove, boasting over 25 studios and the creative genius of 200+ artists. And even if art galleries arenโt your thing, the vibrant graffiti murals adorning Riverside Driveโs industrial buildings will surely catch your eye.
18. Ashevilleโs Got Star Power!
While it might not be Tinseltown, Asheville has its fair share of glitz and glamour. Celebrity sightings? Check. Blockbuster movie sets? Double-check. From โThe Hunger Gamesโ to โCold Mountain,โ the cityโs scenic beauty has graced the silver screen more than once.
19. Biltmore: More Than Just a Mansion.
Sure, the Biltmore Estate is Americaโs largest private home, but itโs so much more than that. Its sprawling grounds and meticulously manicured gardens are a sight to behold. Even if youโre not into architecture, the sheer grandeur of the place is worth a visit.
20. Cooler Than Your Current Zip Code!
Forbes wasnโt kidding when they dubbed Asheville one of the โ15 Coolest Places to Go in 2018.โ So, if youโre looking for a sign to pack your bags and head to this hip city, consider this it!
FAQs
What do I need to know about moving to Asheville NC?
Asheville is a vibrant city known for its artsy vibe, outdoor activities, and rich history. While it offers a unique blend of southern charm and modern living, itโs essential to be aware of the rising housing costs, the cityโs emphasis on local businesses, and the diverse culture that makes Asheville special.
What are the issues in Asheville NC?
Like many growing cities, Asheville faces challenges such as increasing traffic congestion, a housing crunch with rising real estate prices, and concerns about overdevelopment, especially with new hotels. Thereโs also a discussion about maintaining the cityโs unique character amidst rapid growth.
Is It a good place to move to?
Absolutely! Asheville offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a strong sense of community. However, like any city, itโs essential to research and determine if it aligns with your lifestyle and financial situation.
What do people do for a living in Asheville NC?
Ashevilleโs economy is diverse. Many residents work in the medical and education fields, with major employers like Mission Health System & Hospital and the Buncombe County school district. The service industry, especially tourism-related businesses, is also significant. The Biltmore Company, with its estate, hotels, and shops, is a major employer in the service sector.
Is it safe to walk around Asheville at night?
Generally, Asheville is considered safe for residents and tourists. However, like any city, certain areas might be less secure than others. Itโs always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings, stick to well-lit areas, and avoid walking alone late at night.
Is there a homeless problem?
Yes, Asheville, like many cities, faces challenges related to homelessness. The city and various organizations are working to address the issue and provide resources and support for the homeless population.
What is a livable salary there?
To live comfortably in Asheville, taking into account housing, utilities, transportation, and other basic expenses, a salary of around $40,000 to $50,000 for a single person is often considered livable. However, this can vary based on individual circumstances and lifestyle choices.
Final Words
Asheville, with its eclectic mix of art, culture, and nature, is undeniably a city that captures hearts. Not only is it a great place for living, but it can be a very interesting and beautiful vacation spot for you and your family. Whether youโre drawn to its vibrant arts scene, the call of the mountains, or the allure of its unique community spirit, Asheville promises a life less ordinary.
Before making the leap, arm yourself with knowledge, embrace the cityโs quirks, and get ready for an adventure in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
