Why Live in Franklin
Franklin, a small town in North Carolina's Macon County, is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers a slower-paced lifestyle. Known for its Cherokee and Scottish heritage, Franklin was once the "Gem Capital of the World," and residents still enjoy recreational gem mining. Housing options include midcentury ranch-style homes, two-story cottages, late 20th-century manufactured homes near the Little Tennessee River, and custom homes in Brookwood Heights. The median home price is around $320,000, below the national median.
Outdoor activities are abundant, with nearly 600 miles of hiking trails in the Nantahala National Forest and access to the Appalachian and Bartram Trails. The Tennessee River Greenway offers 5 miles of paved paths, wetlands, a butterfly garden, and Big Bear Park. Tassee Park provides a kayak launch, and the Whitmire Property features a disc golf course and skate park. Downtown Franklin is lively, with mom-and-pop restaurants, breweries, antique shops, and annual events like PumpkinFest. Cultural attractions include three museums, the Macon County Art Association's Uptown Gallery, and the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts.
Macon County Schools, known for its strong STEM program, serves the area and has a high overall rating. Southwestern Community College’s Macon Campus offers over 40 programs and a notable Public Safety Training Center. While Franklin's downtown is walkable, the town is generally car-dependent, with several highways connecting it to larger cities like Asheville, 68 miles away. Macon County Transit provides local bus services. The town has a flood risk due to its riverside location, but its crime rates are generally on par with national averages, with violent crime rates below national figures since 2022.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular zip codes in Franklin, NC for renters?