Interested in NC-need advice (Charlotte, Asheville: new home, retirement, price)

[Waylon and Paula]

We are thinking of moving to NC and need some help from the locals. We have visited Asheville once and thought it was beautiful. Here's what we want: We are a young family who is seeking a nice, safe city with great schools and reasonable living costs. We want to have lots to do with the family (kidstuff, outdoors,etc.) Any websites or city names would be great! Thank you!

[kayakera]

Hi Guys!

Asheville is a cool city, but if you're like me you want a little bit smaller town for your kiddies. I currently live in Bryson City, about 1.5 hours West of Asheville, and I'm afraid it may be too small for your needs (as it is for ours), although it was rated the #3 outdoor town in the country! A good alternative might be Sylva. It's about 25 miles east of us here in Bryson City (closer to Asheville), and it's a really cute little town with great restaurants (LuLus is amazing), good schools, and decent priced housing, although it is rising. The local newspaper is the Sylva Herald (it's online as well) and the chamber of commerce is searchable under Jackson County, NC.

It's a small town, but with more conveniences, such as a movie theater, wal-mart, etc...Also, great hiking, close to the Tuckasegee and Nantahala Rivers (fun rafting!) and lots of other great outdoor pursuits.

Good luck!

[robinlpow]

Originally Posted by Waylon and Paula

We are thinking of moving to NC and need some help from the locals. We have visited Asheville once and thought it was beautiful. Here's what we want: We are a young family who is seeking a nice, safe city with great schools and reasonable living costs. We want to have lots to do with the family (kidstuff, outdoors,etc.) Any websites or city names would be great! Thank you!

If you are not deadset on the mountains, look into Belmont. This is the small town right next door to Charlotte on the west side. Very family oriented and beautiful. National White Water Rafting Center, Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens, Lake Wylie, good schools. 2 hours to the mountains and 3 and-a half from the beautiful beaches of nc.

[Teresa Combs]

My husband and I moved here to Hendersonville a couple of years ago. We have found this town to be very friendly and safe. I can't mention all the festivals, events and options that would interest you and your family that abound in this area. This place has truly touched our hearts. Unfortunately, my husband is going to be transferred and we will be leaving soon. I am saddened by the fact that we are moving from "our new home town". Hendersonville is known to be a retirement town, but we live near schools and restaurants and notice a lot of younger families moving here. There is always room for new faces here in this town. I know the folks here would love to have you as their own. Please visit us sometime. I know you'll love it too.