12 Mountain Towns in North Carolina Where $2,100 Covers Rent (And More)

For some, relocating can be a smart homeowner decision when the equity you've invested in your property exceeds the housing costs of your chosen destination. However, you might not want to buy real estate right away, especially if you'd like to get to know a new place first.

If the scenic and desirable mountains of North Carolina are calling you, renting in Asheville may come to mind first. However, there are other towns in this region with lower housing costs, where $2,100 covers rent and more. Here are 12 places that fit the bill.

Editor's note: All rental and mortgage data pulled from Zillow unless otherwise noted.

Average Rent: $1,100

With a population of 18,841, Lenoir sits in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Close-knit, mom-and-pop driven, and proudly quiet, it's ideal for those who enjoy slow mornings on the porch and outdoor recreation.

The overall cost of living is also cheaper than in places like Asheville, Charlotte, and Raleigh.

Average Rent: $1,150

If Lenoir sounds appealing but you want more social events to stay busy, locals say nearby Morganton (population 17,500) is the move. They also love the town's restaurants and nearby Lake James State Park for recreation.

The cost of living is 3% below the national average, largely due to lower housing costs.

Average Rent: $1,300

Just west of Morganton sits Marion, population 8,327. Thirty miles west of Asheville, this small town is more close-knit and down-to-earth than many of its famous neighbors, per locals. Hiking, fishing, and swimming are popular activities for residents.

Additionally, the average home price in Marion is $239,908, versus $455,703 in Asheville, a huge difference for such a short distance.

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Average Rent: $1,800

Continuing west is quaint Old Fort, a small town seemingly from another era with under 1,000 residents. This area is up-and-coming, however, per locals, thanks to its lower cost of living and lifestyle.

Fans of breweries, outdoor activities, and history will enjoy Old Fort and its charm.

Average Rent: $1,400

Of the cute towns in the First Peak of the Blue Ridge region, Tryon (population 1,600) is the most affordable on our list. Residents love the hiking, biking, and local events in this town that fully celebrates its artsiness and quirkiness.

Housing (especially), taxes, and food costs are all below the national average in Tryon.

Average Rent: $1,450

With its brick sidewalks, thriving downtown, and riverside nature paths, Hickory (population 45,400) oozes small, mountain town appeal. Its cost of living belies its appeal, as Hickory has notably ranked on lists of most affordable cities.

Shops, restaurants, and artsy attractions aren't in short supply in this foothill gem.

Average Rent: $1,350

While some argue Cullowhee isn't a town per se, over 7,300 souls call the census-designated place home. It's where you'll find Western Carolina University, which gives the place a college town vibe through and through.

Transportation and health care costs are also well below the national average in Cullowhee.

Average Rent: $1,650

If Cullowhee isn't developed enough for you, nearby Sylva has more stores and amenities, as well as museums and restaurants. The college feel is still present in this town of 2,522, which is close-knit and close to similarly stunning outdoor activities.

The cost of living is notably lower than in nearby Asheville, which also serves as a hub for larger urban services.

Average Rent: $1,800

With a population of just 1,000 residents, Columbus is the second small town on our list from the First Peak of the Blue Ridge region. Wine and horse country are the main draws here, along with a historic downtown and outdoor activities.

The overall cost of living in Columbus is 8.7% lower than the national average, making it a prudent choice.

Average Rent: $1,878

Located about halfway between Asheville and Gatlinburg in the Great Smoky Mountains is Waynesville, population 10,000. Its thriving, quaint downtown hosts community events and has shops and eateries aplenty. Locals recommend the Deep Creek area for waterfalls and hiking.

Though housing costs have recently risen in Waynesville, it remains relatively affordable.

Average Rent: $1,690

The iconic film Dirty Dancing filmed many of its scenes in Lake Lure, showcasing the area's natural beauty. For a lakeside town, it's more affordable than many other waterfront communities, with utilities and transportation costs below the national average.

Approximately 1,300 people call this warm, community-forward town home, where Chimney Rock State Park draws visitors.

Average Rent: $1,700

Boone is home to nearly 20,000 residents and is a thriving college town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The culinary scene is burgeoning in this popular tourist town, where live music and outdoor activities abound. Note that the cost of living has been on the rise in Boone.

Travel & Leisure also dubbed Boone the Best Mountain Town of 2025.

Life in each of these beautiful mountain towns is more affordable than in well-known North Carolina mountain towns like Asheville, where you may have to think of clever ways to pay your rent to get by, depending on your income. Fortunately, $2,100 will cover the average rent in these lovely alternatives.

If you're open to expanding your search, consider mountain towns in neighboring Tennessee as well. They have just as much natural beauty, potentially with more budget-friendly living options.