Asheville, North Carolina, was the first mountain town I visited, at the age of 22. My then-boyfriend, now-husband, and I thought we’d found our mecca, with its blend of outdoor enthusiasts and artists. We promised to return when we could afford to make it permanent.
A lot has changed in the 15 years since then. Single-family homes have risen in cost, and affordable mountain towns seem like a thing of the past. My husband and I have moved around for our careers, eventually calling Seattle home.
Our quest for the perfect affordable Southern mountain town never ended. I think I may have found it in Roanoke, Virginia.
For me, a Southern mountain town combines progressive Southern arts and culture with easy access to outdoor experiences. The perfect town has this aura while also being affordable, with spacious single-family homes available for under half a million dollars.
I went to college in Southwest Virginia, and Roanoke was the nearest “big city” to my college town. I recently visited Roanoke and liked what I saw. The town has a walkable downtown, live music venues, and mountain bikers galore, with houses listed in the three hundred thousands.
Richia Austin, a 31-year-old beverage sales professional, told me that when she first came to Roanoke, she felt like she was stepping back in time. “It felt like a surprise, with a nineties nostalgia, while also being progressive,” she said. Richia Austin’s experience reflects the town’s unique character.
Related: New trail vest redefines adventure gear
On a visit to Roanoke, I walked from my neighborhood to the Golden Cactus Brewery, which had a weekly “Mid-Week Market” with outdoor vendors and an indoor bluegrass jam session. I also checked out Fishburn Park, took a walk along the Roanoke River Greenway, and ate ice cream at local-favorite Blue Cow Ice Cream Co. They offer a variety of flavors.
The view from McAfee Knob on Catawba Mountain, near Roanoke, is stunning. The Appalachian Trail and Blue Ridge Parkway are nearby, providing plenty of outdoor adventures.
Steve Fowler and his wife, Stephanie, moved from Asheville to Roanoke in 2022. They hike every single Sunday, and the lack of crowds in Roanoke makes it easier to access outdoor adventures. They appreciate the ease of access to nature.
Roanoke’s unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and affordable housing makes it an attractive option for those looking for a Southern mountain town. With its strong sense of community and welcoming attitude, Roanoke is definitely worth considering. It offers a great balance of nature and culture, similar to what you might find when building cabins in a family tradition.
Roanoke is a great choice.
