Erwin offers nature and a break from city congestion
Erwin, the seat of Unicoi County, is a small town in the Appalachian Mountains of northeast Tennessee. Its location is one of its biggest draws — providing access to the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and the Nolichucky River, while still being close to Johnson City. “A lot of people come here because they want to be able to experience nature,” says Shane O’Hare, an affiliate broker with Re/Max Checkmate who has lived in the area for more than 25 years. “They don’t want the lifestyle or the congestion of the city, but they can get to the city for work.”
In September of 2024, the effects of Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic flooding along the Nolichucky River and its tributaries. The floods destroyed the county hospital, along with many homes and roads. Thanks to volunteer and government efforts, Erwin and the surrounding area have begun to rebuild. “Numerous long-term recovery groups have been put together, like RISE Erwin, and they’re helping put money back into our community,” O’Hare says.
Helene impacted some parks, but biking, hiking and swimming still open
Much of the flood damage was centered near the banks of the Nolichucky River, which affected some of the area’s best-known recreation. Several rafting companies and the Chestoa Recreation Area are currently closed for repairs, and until the Chestoa Bridge is replaced, Appalachian Trail hikers are detouring through Erwin.
Despite these setbacks, Erwin still has a variety of recreation. Fishery Park features a seasonal pool, athletic courts and a playground. Members of the Unicoi County Family YMCA have access to an indoor pool and fitness equipment. Mountain bikers can explore the rugged trails at Unaka Bike Park, while hikers can connect with the Appalachian National Scenic Trail or visit the Rock Creek Recreation Area and its namesake waterfall.
Historical homes and newer builds echo Erwin’s growth over time
Housing options reflect Erwin’s history. The oldest residences date back to the late 1800s, when farmers settled in the area. In the 1910s and ‘20s, the arrival of railroads and a pottery industry spurred the construction of worker housing. “They’re cute little Sears catalog-type homes,” O’Hare says. “Some of them have been renovated or brought up to modern-day standards — owners have added second bathrooms or enclosed the porches so they’re more comfortable.” As the community expanded, newer developments spread outward.
Near the center of town, houses rest relatively close together, with sidewalks lining major streets. On the northeast end, a few developments feature New Traditional-style builds with private driveways. Outside town limits, bungalows and ranch-style homes are clustered along the valley roads, and properties may back up to national park land.
Fixer-uppers typically sell for $40,000 to $160,000, while most houses range from $160,000 to $540,000. Manufactured homes can go between $120,000 and $220,000, and condos have recently sold for around $330,000.
Unicoi County district includes career-focused extracurriculars
Students are served by Unicoi County Schools, a district that holds an overall B-minus rating from Niche. Some children attend Rock Creek Elementary School, which earns a B. Unicoi County Middle School gets a B-minus. Unicoi County High School receives a C-plus, and it offers Air Force Junior ROTC and Future Farmers of America.
Main Avenue features shops and restaurants near county offices
As the Unicoi County seat, Erwin is home to government offices and the majority of the county’s businesses. The town has two coffee shops, three grocery stores and several boutiques, including Whiskey River Dry Goods Company. During the summer, shoppers can pick up fresh produce from the Friday evening farmers market beside the courthouse.
Dining options include a mix of fast-food spots and a few sit-down restaurants. Clarence’s Drive-In serves homestyle cooking in a classic diner setting. One of the newer restaurants is The Red Fork, along Main Avenue. “We’re introducing upscale Appalachian cuisine to the area — it’s not just biscuits and gravy, but braised lamb in succotash.”
The Apple Festival and nativity parade highlight local traditions
The town typically hosts events throughout the year, including the Trails & Tunes Festival in late spring. Each October, the Unicoi County Apple Festival draws thousands of people to the area for two days of live music, craft vendors and apple-themed foods. In December, local churches sponsor a candlelight nativity parade down Main Avenue, complete with Mary, Joseph and a mass of children dressed as shepherds and angels.
In-town travel, driving I-26 to Johnson City and Asheville
Erwin’s compact downtown is relatively walkable, and residents have access to an on-demand ride service through Northeast Tennessee Rural Public Transit, or NET Trans. In-town employers include Tsubaki Nakashima, an international manufacturing company. Interstate 26 connects the community with Johnson City, about 20 miles north, and Asheville, North Carolina, roughly 45 miles south. Health care is available at the Johnson City Medical Center, and the Tri-Cities Airport is around 35 miles away.
