Best Mountainous Places to Live in the US
Best Mountainous Places to Live in the US
Living in a mountainous region of the US offers many advantages. For one, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. You can also enjoy stunning views from your own home or venture out to explore the breathtaking scenery. Living in a mountain area also provides respite from hot summer days, as temperatures tend to remain cooler than in other parts of the country during the peak season. And with access to natural resources like clean air and water, you can be sure that you’ll experience healthier living conditions than in typical urban areas.
Many people who choose to live in these regions are drawn by the sense of community they find there; it’s not uncommon for neighbors to become close friends over time! So if you’ve been dreaming of leaving city life behind and settling down somewhere serene yet stimulating, then consider checking out some of the best mountainous places to live in the US listed below!
Where to Live in the Mountains
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is an increasingly popular mountain city located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. It’s renowned for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and rafting, making it among the best mountainous places to live in the US. The city also has a thriving art scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues to explore. It may not be the cheapest place to live in the mountains, but in terms of the cost of living, Asheville is an attractive destination for those seeking affordability.
When it comes to community, there is no shortage of spirit in this welcoming town. The tight-knit community puts on many local events and festivals that bring people together. Asheville has also been known for its community activism, with initiatives in place to create more affordable housing, healthcare access, and environmental conservation.
Telluride, Colorado
Telluride, Colorado, is an incredibly picturesque mountain town known for its dramatic landscapes, historic charm, and numerous outdoor activities. Located in the San Juan Mountains of southwest Colorado, Telluride boasts some of the most breathtaking views in the country, with tall peaks towering over deep valleys. It’s no surprise that this small town has become a popular destination for adventurers looking to explore its many hiking trails, snowshoeing paths, ice-climbing spots, and more!
Despite being relatively small (the population sits at just over 2500 people), there is still plenty going on here year-round, making it an ideal place for those looking for both adventure and relaxation alike. Living expenses tend to remain fairly low compared to other towns, so you can enjoy all that Telluride has to offer without breaking the bank. They even have a sustainability initiative with a free gondola system that runs from Telluride to Mountain Village, so not only can you live more eco-friendly, but you don’t have to spend as much on gas!
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is one of the best mountainous places to live in the US for anyone looking to settle down in a town with a vibrant cultural scene and outdoor recreational opportunities. Located just on the border of the Great Smokey Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg offers some of the best hiking trails and mountain living in the country, thanks to its diverse terrain and abundant wildlife. It also has a vibrant nightlife scene featuring award-winning restaurants as well as art galleries, independent film festivals, and live music venues; there’s never a shortage of things to do here.
Gatlinburg has also become increasingly popular over the past few years due to its close proximity to the Great Smokey Mountains, making it an excellent home base for outdoor enthusiasts and mountain-living lovers. Compared to many other mountainous areas in the US, Gatlinburg offers a relatively low cost of living. Housing, transportation, and other basic expenses are generally more affordable here than in other mountain towns, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable mountain lifestyle!
Boone, North Carolina
Boone, North Carolina, is situated in the heart of Appalachia. With its charming small-town atmosphere and stunning views, it’s no secret that Boone is listed as one of the best mountainous places to live in the US. This quaint community offers plenty of outdoor activities, farm-to-table cafes, and other cultural attractions for everyone to enjoy.
From its hiking trails to lush forests as well as numerous ski resorts like Appalachian Ski Mountain, locals love that they can head outside all year round! You’ll also have access to some of North Carolina’s most beautiful national parks — such as Pisgah National Forest or Blue Ridge Parkway — which are home to jaw-dropping waterfalls that will take your breath away.
But what sets Boone apart from other towns is its sense of community; local art events and summer concerts at Jones Park have brought people together for years! And if you’re looking for the cheapest place to live in the mountains, Boone is an affordable option thanks to their reasonable prices in the real estate market.
Stowe, Vermont
You may know Stowe, Vermont, as home to the historic Gold Brook Covered Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges in the state. If you’re wondering where to live in the mountains, this charming small community is a great option for those looking for a small town with a population of under 1000. You can find the endearing town situated in the Green Mountains. If you’re searching for the cheapest place to live in the mountains, this town is also worth considering, as it offers a cost of living that’s below the national average.
What often draws locals to Stowe is that there are plenty of hiking trails that meander through lush forests — in fact, the city is known for its bright and colorful fall foliage! Stowe Mountain Resort is right nearby, which offers an incredible skiing experience in your own backyard. You’ll also have plenty to explore thanks to Vermont’s stunning national parks, such as Camel’s Hump State Park or Underhill State Park.
Ellijay, Georgia
Ellijay, Georgia, is situated in the stunning North Georgia Mountains with rolling hills, meandering rivers, and dense forests. The town is surrounded by the Chattahoochee National Forest, which offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping.
This quaint city has a population of around 1,700 people, which gives it a small-town feel. The town has a close-knit community that values its history and culture, and residents take pride in their town and work to preserve its character. While Ellijay is a small town, it is conveniently located 90 minutes north of Atlanta, which provides easy access to the amenities and entertainment options of a larger city.
One of the greatest perks of living in this mountain town is the cost of living. The cost of living in Ellijay is lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for people looking to relocate to a mountainous area without breaking the bank!
Roanoke, Virginia
Roanoke, Virginia, is located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is one of the best mountainous places to live in the US for anyone looking for a great quality of life. This great mountain town is surrounded by mountains, forests, and rivers, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. There are numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and rock climbing. For someone looking for less adrenaline-charged hobbies, the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway provides access to some of the most scenic drives in the country.
In terms of cost of living, Roanoak is an affordable city, making it an attractive option for those who are deciding where to live in the mountains while on a budget. This includes both housing prices and groceries, which are fairly affordable compared to other cities around America. There are also several supermarkets located within walking distance from downtown, so you won’t have to go far when stocking up your pantry. If you’re drawn to a small-town feel with plenty of historic buildings, rodeos, and cowboy culture, then Roanoke is a great option for you!
Santa Fe, New Mexico
When deciding where to live in the mountains, Santa Fe is a great choice! With a history dating back to over 400 years ago, Santa Fe is a mountain town with panoramic views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in New Mexico. With the city’s adobe construction and earthy colors, along with its rich culture, it’s no wonder why so many people choose to call this place home. The cost of living here is quite reasonable compared to many other places around the US, making Santa Fe an attractive destination for those seeking the cheapest place to live in the mountains without sacrificing culture.
The local amenities in Santa Fe are plentiful, too; from cozy cafes serving up authentic Mexican cuisine and quaint shops selling handmade goods, you’ll find everything you need right within reach! Not only is the city a hub for the local art scene but there are also plenty of outdoor activities available, such as hiking trails and skiing opportunities nearby.
Ready to Build Your Own Mountainside Retreat?
So if you’re looking for one of the best mountainous places to live in the US, then be sure to consider one (or more!) of these wonderful towns listed above. Each offers plenty of outdoor activities and cultural attractions to keep you busy and an affordable way of life that will allow you the freedom to construct the home of your dreams.
No matter which one you choose, Logangate Timber Homes can help bring your vision of a dream mountain home into a reality. Our experienced team of designers is dedicated to creating custom-built homes that reflect your individual style — while incorporating sustainable materials like timber frames and green building methods throughout the process. With over 50 years of experience, Logangate has been helping people create beautiful homes in some of America’s most stunning locations – so why not let us help make your dreams come true? Visit our website today and request more information on how we can help you build your new home according to your budget, timeline, and lifestyle needs.
Contact Logangate Timber Homes now and begin planning to customize your very own mountain-side timber home today!