Why Buyers Choose Brevard: Quality of Life in Transylvania County (2025)

Why Buyers Choose Brevard – Quality of Life in Transylvania County vs. Asheville

If you're considering a move to Western North Carolina, you've probably looked at Brevard in Transylvania County and Asheville in Buncombe County. Both are mountain gems, but new market data tells an interesting story: 

• Transylvania County median sales price ( July 2025): $570,000
• Buncombe County median sales price ( July 2025): $515,000

For the first time, homes in Transylvania County are commanding higher prices than in Buncombe County. Rather than seeing this as a disadvantage, it highlights something more critical– buyers are willing to pay a premium for the quality of life Brevard offers.

Housing Markets for Context

Buncombe County's market is still finding its footing after Hurricane Helene, which brought significant damage and disruptions to parts of Asheville and surrounding areas. Recovery has been ongoing, influencing both sales activity and pricing trends. 

By contract, Transylvania County experienced more limited storm damage and has shown resilience in its housing market. This stability and lifestyle appeal have helped push Brevard's prices higher. Buyers aren't just choosing Transylvania because of recovery differences—they're choosing it because of the enduring value of life here. 

At the same time, it's essential to acknowledge that rising prices bring real challenges for first-time buyers and working families who hope to make Brevard home. Local leaders are actively discussing solutions, from innovative housing initiatives to partnerships that can support greater affordability. The community recognized the need for balance, sustaining growth while ensuring Brevard remains accessible to those who want to live and work here. 

The Value of the Lifestyle, Not Just Price 

While Asheville has long been the regional hub for cluture and growth, Brevard's rising market strength reflects its appeal as a lifestyle destination. Buyers aren't just looking at square footage, they're investing in a way of life. 

• Privacy and tranquility 
• Access to trails, rivers, waterfalls, and forests just outside your door
• A strong sense of community rooted in small-town charm

When Buyers choose Brevard, they're choosing a lifestyle that's hard to replicated in a larger metro area. 

Daily Access to Nature

In Transylvania County, outdoor recreation isn't a weekend getaway, it's a part of everyday living. 

• Pisgah National Forest offers world-class hiking, mountain biking and fly fishing.
• DuPont State Recreational Forest is famous for it's waterfalls and multi-use trails. 
• Gorges State Park delivers rugged beauty for those seeking true adventure.
• City Path and Bracken Mountain Preserve trails offer direct access to Pisgah National Forest from Downtown Brevard.

This direct connection to nature is what makes Brevard one of the most desirable addresses in the Blue Ridge Mountains. 

A Slower Pace, Less Traffic

While Asheville wrestles with interstate expansions and traffic congestion, Brevard offers a calmer rhythm. Commutes are shorter, and there's no daily grind of gridlock.  Life here flows with the seasons, not the rush hour. 

Arts, Music & Culture Without the Overwhelm

Don't mistake Brevard's small-town size for a lack of culture. The community thrives with art and music that rival larger cities.

• The Brevard Music Center draws world-class musicians every summer. 
• Festivals like the White Squirrel Festival, HalloweenFest and Mountain Song Festival bring people together.
• Local venues such as 185 King St showcase live music year-round from open jam nights, to regional touring acts. offering an intimate space to discover new talent and connect with the community. 
• Downtown Brevard's galleries, shops, and breweries create a lively, walkable atmosphere. 

Here, culture feels personal and authentic, rather than crowed or commercial. 

Community & Belonging

One of Brevard's strongest appeals is its community spirit. From neighborhood potlucks to supporting nonprofits like Sharing House, there's a deep-rooted sense of connection. Buyers relocating from larger cities often say they feel "at home" more quickly here than anywhere else.

Why Buyers Are Paying More

The higher median sales price in Transylvania County isn't a drawback, it's proof of demand. Buyers recognize the intangible value of life here: serenity, natural beauty, authentic culture, and a meaningful sense of palce. In today's market, that lifestyle is worth more than proximity to a busy urban hub.  

But alongside rising demand, the community continues to work toward solutions that keep Brevard welcoming and attainable for future generations. 

Thinking About Making the Move?

Whether you're dreaming of retirement in the mountains, seeking a second home retreat, or relocating for a slower, richer lifestyle, Brevard offers something unique that Asheville can't match, true small-town living in a world-class natural setting. 

Contact Team Billy Harris at 828-553-9666 or explore available Brevard NC homes for sale at billyharrisnc.com and explore our relocation guide.