Check It Out-Asheville has something for Everyone!
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9/22/2019
Asheville and the greater metro area which includes the six county area around it is a truly up and coming community. I've owned a home there for most of the past 13 years. The pros: 1. WNC, in general, and Asheville, in particular, is beautiful. Set in the Blue Ridge mountains, the geography of the area is what initially draws most people to this part of the state. 2. Lots to do. If you like the outdoors, you will never want for activities. Hiking, biking, fishing, golfing, on and on... 3. Mild climate. With just enough elevation, the summers aren't too hot (at least not too long) and the winters aren't too cold (or at least not too long). 4. Health care is very good. Yes, there are lots of retirees, but HCA Mission Health has long been recognized as provider of quality healthcare. 5. Robust economy. For a fairly small community, there is lots of positive development with many new businesses, a healthy manufacturing community, and overall low unemployment below the national average. And as people continue to move into the area, it continues to fuel more activity. 6. Cost of living is still reasonable. While its gotten more expensive, especially housing, WNC still compares favorably especially with larger metro areas from which many people are moving. Cons: 1. With more people there is more traffic. 2. Taxes as a whole are on the high side with higher than average state income taxes and local sales taxes taking a bite out of the wallet. 3. If you like Bohemian, Asheville is for you. Having said that, the general politics of the region is a bit more progressive than i am, but i think everyone can find their place.
Overall, for me, the pros outweigh the cons. There are a lot of naysayers who have posted some unflattering remarks about Asheville. Having been going to the region for well over 20 years now, i could not disagree more. This is a fun, vibrant, beautiful area that really requires a hard look for anyone, young or old, looking for a place to live. OK, if you're a city-slicker, it may not be for you...but for just about everyone else, I think it has some universal appeal.
Peter | Palmetto Bay, FL