If you’re reading this, you’re either moving to Asheville or thinking about it. Why else would you be researching the best neighborhoods in Asheville NC?
I moved to Asheville with my family more than 10 years ago.
Over the years I’d come to know Asheville loosely from visiting family that lives over an hour away. So while I had a sense for the area, I wasn’t familiar with the best neighborhoods in Asheville and needed to do some research.
Because I was moving for a job (a rare occurrence in Asheville’s Bring-Your-Own-Job economy) there was a sense of urgency to my home search. We had a great Realtor guiding us, but ultimately ended up renting, and then later building our own home in West Asheville.
The neighborhoods in Asheville are diverse, ranging from the uber- trendy street-art infused River Arts District to the Victorian-themed historic Montford district. Downtown Asheville is no doubt the central hub, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops.
Downtown Asheville Neighborhoods
If you’re looking for an urban experience in Asheville — downtown is the place to be. With a mix of historic buildings and new condo developments, this neighborhood is the heart of the city. Here are some highlights of Downtown Asheville that you won’t want to miss.
South Slope
The South Slope is a popular neighborhood for food and drink. You’ll find a variety of breweries, but not a wide variety of housing. That said, a condo in South Slope within walking distance of Hi-Wire and Burial Beer sounds like a great plan. The single-family homes in the area are typically older charming homes that have been renovated. But it’s not just about the beer – there are also plenty of restaurants and coffee shops in the area as well to round out this walkable Asheville neighborhood.
Historic Buildings
Downtown Asheville is a historic neighborhood with plenty of beautiful architecture to admire. Take a stroll down the Urban Trail to see some of the highlights, including the Vanderbilt buildings and the Basilica of St. Lawrence. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
New Condo Developments
If you’re looking for a modern living experience, Downtown Asheville has plenty of new condo developments to choose from. The downtown area is rapidly growing, and developers are taking advantage of the demand for urban living. Check out the condos at 17 North Market Street or the Arras Residences for a taste of luxury living.
River Arts District
The River Arts District (RAD) is just a short walk from Downtown Asheville and is a must-visit for art lovers. You’ll find a variety of art galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists. The district also hosts Second Saturday, a monthly event where galleries stay open late and visitors can enjoy live music and refreshments.
Kenilworth
Just southeast of Downtown Asheville is the Kenilworth neighborhood, known for its mix of historic bungalows and multi-family homes. It’s a favorite neighborhood for families due to its central location near Mission Hospital and easy access to South Asheville, Biltmore Village, and Downtown.
Biltmore Village
Biltmore Village is a charming area just south of Downtown Asheville that’s home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. The village was originally built as a planned community for workers at the Biltmore Estate, but today it’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
In Downtown Asheville, you’ll find a mix of fine dining, casual bars, and music venues. It’s a vibrant and exciting neighborhood that’s constantly evolving. Whether you’re looking for a night out on the town or a quiet stroll through a historic neighborhood, Downtown Asheville has something for everyone.
North Asheville Neighborhoods
If you’re looking for a peaceful and scenic neighborhood in Asheville, you should definitely check out the North Asheville area. This part of town is home to some of the city’s most beautiful parks, lakes, and hiking trails, making it an ideal place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Montford
Montford is one of the most historic and charming neighborhoods in Asheville. This area is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and friendly community. If you’re a fan of Shakespeare, you’ll love the Montford Park Players, a local theater group that performs the Bard’s plays in the Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre.
Grove Park
Grove Park is a luxury neighborhood located just north of downtown Asheville. This area is home to the famous Grove Park Inn, a historic hotel that has hosted many famous guests over the years. The neighborhood is also known for its beautiful bungalows, winding streets, and picturesque parks. If you’re a golf enthusiast, you’ll love the Grove Park Golf Course, which offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Woodfin
Woodfin is a small town located just north of Asheville. This area is known for its beautiful lake, Beaver Lake, which is a popular spot for fishing, picnicking, and boating. The town also has a number of great restaurants and shops, making it a fun place to explore.
Weaverville
Weaverville is a charming small town located just a few miles north of Asheville. This area is known for its friendly community, beautiful parks, and historic downtown area. If you’re a fan of the arts, you’ll love the Weaverville Art Safari, a bi-annual event that showcases the work of local artists.
Marshall
Marshall is a small town located just north of Asheville. This area is known for its beautiful views of the French Broad River, which is a popular spot for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. The town also has a number of great restaurants and shops, making it a fun place to explore.
Mars Hill
Mars Hill is a small town located just north of Asheville. This area is known for its beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and its friendly community. If you’re a fan of hiking, you’ll love the Mars Hill Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Hot Springs
Hot Springs is a small town located just north of Asheville. This area is known for its natural hot springs, which are a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. The town also has a number of great restaurants and shops, making it a fun place to explore.
In conclusion, North Asheville is a beautiful and peaceful place to live or visit. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historic neighborhoods, or charming small towns, this area has something for everyone.
South Asheville Neighborhoods
If you’re looking for a diverse mix of neighborhoods with plenty of amenities, South Asheville is the place for you. This area is known for its upscale communities, outdoor recreation opportunities, and proximity to popular attractions like the Biltmore Estate and Biltmore Village.
Biltmore Forest
Biltmore Forest is a historic neighborhood with some of the most beautiful homes in the region. This community is known for its tree-lined streets, manicured lawns, and stunning architecture. If you’re looking for a peaceful and secluded place to call home, Biltmore Forest might be just what you’re looking for.
Biltmore Park
Biltmore Park is a newer community that offers a mix of residential, commercial, and retail spaces. This community is known for its walkability, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars within easy reach. Biltmore Park is also home to the south-side location of Thirsty Monk Brewery, so you can enjoy a cold brew while taking in the scenery.
Mills River
Mills River is a small community located just outside of Asheville. This area is known for its natural beauty, with plenty of parks and outdoor recreation opportunities. It’s also home to a number of breweries, like the eastern operation of Sierra Nevada Brewing. If you’re looking for a quiet place to call home with easy access to the great outdoors, Mills River might be the perfect fit.
Arden
Arden is a vibrant community with plenty of shops, restaurants, and parks. This area is known for Lake Julian, a popular spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking, as well as a large playground. Arden is also home to the Blake House, a Gothic Revival home listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Fletcher
Fletcher is a growing community that offers a mix of residential neighborhoods and commercial spaces. This area is known for its proximity to Asheville Regional Airport. Fletcher is also home to a whiskey distillery, quirky consignment shops, and a large community park.
Hendersonville Road
Hendersonville Road is a major thoroughfare that runs through South Asheville. This road is home to a number of consignment shops, antique stores, and unique retailers. If you’re looking for something one-of-a-kind, Hendersonville Road is the place to be.
In summary, South Asheville offers a diverse mix of neighborhoods with plenty of amenities and attractions. Whether you’re looking for a historic community, a newer development, or a quiet place to call home, you’re sure to find something that suits your needs in South Asheville.
East Asheville Neighborhoods
If you’re looking for a diverse and eclectic area in Asheville, East Asheville has plenty to offer. From the quaint and charming Haw Creek to the mountainous beauty of Black Mountain, there is something for everyone in this part of town.
Haw Creek
Haw Creek is a peaceful and quiet neighborhood that is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It is known for its lush greenery and scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The French Broad River flows through the area, making it an ideal spot for fishing, kayaking, and other water activities. If you’re an art lover, you’ll appreciate the numerous galleries and studios in the area.
Swannanoa
If you’re looking for a small town feel, Swannanoa is the place for you. This charming community is located just a few miles east of Asheville and is known for its friendly locals and beautiful scenery. It is home to Warren Wilson College, a liberal arts school that attracts students from all over the country.
Black Mountain
Black Mountain is a picturesque mountain town that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. It is located just a short drive from Asheville and is known for its hiking trails, including the popular trail to the summit of Mount Mitchell, the highest peak in the eastern United States. The town is also home to numerous art galleries and studios, making it a great place for artists and art lovers alike. The neighborhoods surrounding Black Mountain are worthy of a separate article.
Fairview
Fairview is a peaceful and scenic community that is perfect for those who want to live in a rural setting while still being close to the city. It is located just a few miles southeast of Asheville and is known for its beautiful farmland and mountain views. If you enjoy hiking and outdoor activities, you’ll appreciate the numerous trails in the area.
Lake Lure
Lake Lure is a beautiful mountain town that is known for its stunning lake and mountain views. It is located just a short drive from Asheville and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The town is home to numerous restaurants, shops, and galleries, making it a great place to explore.
In summary, East Asheville is a diverse and eclectic area that has something for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, an art lover, or just looking for a peaceful and scenic place to live, you’ll find it in this part of town. So why not explore all that East Asheville has to offer?
West Asheville Neighborhoods
As a former resident of West Asheville, I think some of the best neighborhoods in Asheville NC can be found here. Located just across the French Broad River from downtown, West Asheville is a vibrant community with a lot to offer. From eclectic condos to 100-year-old bungalows, you can find a home to suit your personal tastes.
West Asheville
The trendy part of West Asheville, aka “West Asheville” is a popular neighborhood known for its unique character and walkability. With Haywood Road as its main artery, West Asheville is home to an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. Whether you’re looking for a new outfit, a delicious meal, or a great cup of coffee, you’ll find it all in West Asheville.
Candler
Just a short drive from West Asheville, Candler is a quiet and peaceful community with a lot of charm. With its beautiful scenery and friendly residents, Candler is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Waynesville
Located about 30 minutes west of Asheville, Waynesville is a small town with plenty of character. With its quaint downtown area and beautiful mountain views, Waynesville is a great place to relax and unwind.
Bryson City
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, Bryson City is the place to be. Located about an hour west of Asheville, Bryson City is home to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and the Nantahala Outdoor Center.
Sylva
Located about 45 minutes west of Asheville, Sylva is a small town with a lot of charm. With its beautiful downtown area and friendly residents, Sylva is a great place to visit. The home prices in Sylva are more affordable than many of the best neighborhoods in Asheville NC, but don’t say that in front of the locals. Sylva has seen its share of price appreciation, too, and local residents are feeling the impacts of low inventory, just like many other cities across the United States.
Cullowhee
Home to Western Carolina University, Cullowhee is a small college town with a lot of appeal. With its beautiful scenery and friendly residents, Cullowhee is a great place to live and study.
Overall, the towns West of Asheville offer lovely neighborhoods with a lot to offer. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or a retiree, you’ll find something to love in and around the West side of Asheville.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some affordable neighborhoods near Asheville, NC?
If you’re looking for affordable neighborhoods near Asheville, NC, consider looking at East Asheville. Haw Creek is a great option for those looking for a quiet neighborhood with easy access to downtown Asheville. It’s also close to the Blue Ridge Parkway and has plenty of green spaces. Oakley is another affordable option with a mix of older and newer homes.
Which Asheville neighborhood has the most retirees?
If you’re looking for a neighborhood with a large retiree population, consider looking at South Asheville. Biltmore Forest is a popular choice for retirees with its large lots and proximity to the Biltmore Estate. Other options include Kenilworth and the Lakeview Park area.
What are some popular neighborhoods in West Asheville?
West Asheville is a popular area with a variety of neighborhoods to choose from. Some of the most popular neighborhoods include West Asheville proper, which has a mix of older homes and new developments, and Candler, a sleepy community with friendly residents.
What is the difference between West Asheville and downtown?
While both West Asheville and downtown Asheville are popular areas, they have distinct differences. Downtown Asheville is known for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and shops. West Asheville, on the other hand, has a more laid-back vibe with a focus on community and local businesses.
Where can I find homes for sale in Montford, Asheville?
Montford is a historic neighborhood in Asheville with a mix of Victorian and Arts and Crafts homes. If you’re looking for homes for sale in Montford, start by checking out real estate websites like Zillow and Redfin. You can also work with a local real estate agent who specializes in the area.
What is the hippest part of Asheville?
Asheville is known for its hip and eclectic vibe, but if you’re looking for the hippest part of town, consider checking out the South Slope area. This area is home to a variety of breweries, restaurants, and shops, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Other hip areas include the River Arts District and West Asheville.
