Charlotte is the best place to live in North Carolina, according to U.S. News, but Raleigh was ranked just behind it at No. 6 ...

Asheville, NC ranks 8th on Livability.com's list of best places to live in the Southeast. Livability.com cites Asheville's mountain setting, vibrant culture, and thriving arts scene as key factors.

If you're just looking for a little taste of the trail, venture about 35 miles northwest of Asheville to the town of Hot Springs, North Carolina, where the AT runs right through town on Bridge Street.

In a study on 2025's best places to live, Livability.com ranks Asheville among the top 10 for towns in the Southeast.