Home of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Western North Carolina is one of the best places in the United States to own a home, relocate to, retire, and vacation. With year-round access to scenic natural beauty, world-renowned fly fishing, outdoor recreation activities, and proximity to the majestic Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Pisgah Forest, it’s no wonder that various travel publications have consistently ranked Asheville, NC, as one of the best places to live. Aside from Asheville proper, Western North Carolina is filled with welcoming cities and charming mountain towns. Check out our list of 40 Cool Mountain Small Towns near Asheville. (Feature photo: The Cliffs at Walnut Cove)

Photo: Avalon Mountain Community in Waynesville

If you’re interested in living in a mountain community and finding your dream home, Western North Carolina is just the place. Whether you’re looking for a small-town lifestyle with big-city amenities or you prefer quiet and peaceful mountain views, mountain communities in NC offer an incomparable quality of life. There are hundreds of unique mountain communities in Western North Carolina to choose from, including gated mountain communities.

Photo: Walking Trails in The Ramble Biltmore Forest

Would you like to live in a mountain community with a wellness center and planned social activities? Or a mountain community with easy access to parks, biking, and hiking trails? Some mountain communities include golf courses and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Others include pet- and family-friendly walking trails, waterfalls, tennis and fitness programs, and fine dining at the clubhouse.


Photo: Golf course at The Cliffs at Walnut Cove

Explore the best mountain communities in North Carolina to find your perfect mountain home. Regardless of what community you choose, in Western North Carolina you’ll enjoy the fresh, mountain air and peaceful views.