Franklin is a North Carolina town surrounded by mountain views
The small Macon County town of Franklin sits near the southwestern tip of North Carolina, deep within the Blue Ridge Mountains. “It’s one of the most beautiful places there is,” says Amie Owens, Franklin’s town manager. “More people are coming to this region because it offers a slower-paced lifestyle.” Blue mountain peaks of the Appalachian range can be seen from Main Street downtown, and nearly 600 miles of hiking trails cross through the surrounding Nantahala National Forest. The Little Tennessee River flows through the community, offering more natural beauty. Along with its Cherokee and Scottish heritage, Franklin was once known as the Gem Capital of the World for its ruby and sapphire mining history dating to the 1870s. Tourists and the town’s nearly 4,200 residents still enjoy mining for gems recreationally today, and many make their finds into jewelry with the help of local artisans. Along with tourism, Franklin’s economy is largely based on construction-related trades, which include flooring manufacturers and steel fabricators.
Residents of Franklin know why the local mountains are referred to as the Blue Ridge.
Franklin's downtown rea is classic America with storefront shops and great views.
1/2
A range of home styles for less than the national median
The median price for a single-family home in Franklin is around $320,000, well below the national median. Properties typically stay on the market for about 49 days, on par with the national average. Midcentury ranch-style homes and two-story cottages comprise most of the housing stock. However, East Franklin features late 20th-century manufactured homes close to the Little Tennessee River, and the Brookwood Heights neighborhood on the far west side is known for its custom creations with mountain views.
Large new builds in the Brookwood area provide Franklin residents spacious homes with amazing views.
Beautiful lots with plenty of room and classic ranch style homes are available all over Franklin.
1/2
Franklin is a town for outdoorsy folks and hiking lovers
Resting in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Franklin puts hikers in reach of two well-traveled trails: the Appalachian Trail and the Bartram Trail. Signage around town welcomes AT hikers who need a rest and a restock. While gem mining is the big to-do at the various mines north and south of town, Franklin’s most popular attraction within the town limits is the Tennessee River Greenway. Paralleling its namesake river, the greenway offers 5 miles of paved path that passes by wetlands, a butterfly garden and Big Bear Park, which features a large playground and splash pad. Volunteers with Friends of the Greenway help maintain the trail and fundraise for future updates. Their Frog Quarters lodge anchors the trailhead and offers coffee and local art. Tassee Park offers a kayak launch for paddling up the river. The 12-acre Whitmire Property hosts a small disc golf course and Franklin Skate Park, which features a half-pipe and various concrete obstacles. Owens says the town plans to add an amphitheater and trails to the property. Other green spaces dot the community, including Franklin Town Square, which hosts downtown events, and the public Franklin Golf Course, where all 9 holes offer scenic views.
The Little Tennessee Greenway runs through the middle of Franklin offering places to walk or play.
The Little TN River Greenway has an 18 hold disc golf course in the North of Franklin.
1/2
Vibrant downtown with popular breweries and local antique shops
Franklin's downtown is buzzing with mom-and-pop restaurants, breweries with live music, and vintage boutiques selling handmade décor and furniture. “There’s a southern hospitality vibe here. People talk to each other on the street, and there are good relationships between businesses and residents,” Owens says. Yonder, located near the town center, sells organic food curated by local vendors, while Ruby City Gems & Minerals is a longtime staple for gem mining supplies.
Downtown also hosts yearly events like PumpkinFest, Franklin’s largest street festival and autumn celebration, bringing people together with food and craft vendors. Residents can also visit one of three museums to learn more about the town’s Scottish and Native American roots. Home to the Macon County Art Association, Uptown Gallery features the works of area artists and offers classes and workshops. Live performances, from concerts to theater productions, entertain audiences at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts.
Locals and Hikers mingle downtown outside local shops and restaurants.
Ruby City Gem Museum has a fine collection of stones from all over the world as well as locally.
1/2
Macon County Schools has a focus on STEM education
Macon County Schools serves Franklin and scores a B-plus overall rating from Niche. The district, which has over 4,400 students and 13 schools, is widely known for its STEM program, where students can participate in robotics and aviation programs and attend field trips to the Tremont Institute in Tennessee or the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Alabama. The district’s largest high school, Franklin High, earns a B rating. In 2023, Macon County Schools received a grant to construct a new Franklin High building and football stadium on the current campus. Construction began in late 2024 and is set to be completed by summer 2027.
Southwestern Community College’s Macon Campus is in Franklin. The college offers more than 40 programs. The campus in Franklin is notable for its Public Safety Training Center, which runs a first-of-its-kind training academy for rangers with the National Park Service.
Macon Middle school serves multiple areas and is located in Franklin.
Local home of the Panthers, Franklin High School is the final spot for local teens before college.
1/2
Getting around Franklin by car or bus
Franklin's downtown is highly walkable, but the community is car-dependent overall. Several highways meet in town, including U.S. Route 23, which links Franklin to larger cities like Asheville, roughly 68 miles away. There, residents can catch flights out of Asheville Regional Airport. Macon County Transit offers fixed-route and point-to-point service to destinations such as the town square or Angel Medical Center, a full-service hospital which opened in 2022.
Important to know
As a riverside town with many creeks, Franklin has a flood risk. FEMA maps indicate that some homes and businesses rest against or within regulatory floodways and special flood hazard areas. Franklin was largely spared by Hurricane Helene in September 2024, which caused catastrophic damage to towns across western North Carolina.
According to FBI data, Franklin's property crime rate is generally on par with national and state figures. The town’s violent crime rate has remained below national numbers since 2022.
Written By
DeeVa Payne
Photography Contributed By
William Neary
Video By
Ruo Zheng
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jeffrey Willson,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Franklin, NC sell after 59 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Franklin, NC over the last 12 months is $303,250, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Discover the perfect blend of modern style and serene mountain living! This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with split bedroom floor plan ensure maximum privacy. The spacious master suite is a private oasis, boasting a walk-in closet with motion-sensor lighting and a luxurious en-suite bath with a dual vanity. Situated on a level, 0.38-acre lot, this property is unrestricted—perfect for those dreaming
Krisztina SzaboHoward Hanna Beverly-Hanks Waynesville
This well-kept home offers a comfortable, practical living space with thoughtful use of every square foot. The kitchen features warm wood cabinetry with ample storage and functional appliances, making everyday cooking and organization easy. The living area is bright and welcoming, with natural light from large windows and a layout that supports daily living and relaxation. The bedroom provides a
Discover the charm of mountain living with this 1BR/1BA farmhouse nestled on over 6 peaceful, usable acres—perfect for gardening, small farming, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Just minutes from town, this property combines privacy and convenience in one unique package. Full of vintage character, the home features a cozy wood-burning fireplace, classic barn, two sheds for storage or projects,
Tucked away on 4.1 private acres and adjacent to the United States Forest Service for unmatched privacy, this solidly built, lovingly maintained mountain home is ready for its next chapter. Owned and cared for by the same family for over 30 years, the pride of ownership is evident throughout. Surrounded by breathtaking long-range views visible from every window, the home sits within a picturesque
Discover mountain living at its finest in this multi-level home nestled in a well-established neighborhood just minutes from downtown Franklin—without city taxes. Mature landscaping, tiered gardens, and over 21 fruit and nut trees create a private orchard-like setting, overlooking the mountains and a tranquil pond. Inside, enjoy a flowing layout with a primary suite featuring an en suite bath,
Wake up to mountain views and golf course scenery in this Mountain Modern new construction 2 bed / 2 bath home in Mill Creek Estates. Privately positioned on a low-maintenance lot with no yard to mow, this home offers easy mountain living while still providing inviting outdoor spaces to relax and entertain. The exterior showcases striking Iron Ore board-and-batten siding, creating a modern
Tucked in the tranquil Simplicity Woods of Clarks Chapel, this charming 2BR/1BA tiny home is a perfect blend of comfort and functionality. Outside, you will find a nice fire pit and a fenced-in area for pets to roam, children to play, and/or an area for gardening. Inside, the bright and airy layout features stainless steel appliances, a breakfast bar for casual dining, and a loft for extra
Welcome to your dream mountain retreat! This charming 3BR/2BA home offers year-round mountain views and over 15 acres backing directly to U.S. Forest Service land for unmatched privacy and adventure. A private gravel road leads you to the property, creating the ultimate secluded setting while still being close to town. Relax on the spacious covered porch, perfect for morning coffee or evening
Step into your new home this spring—and into mountain living in the heart of the Smokies, where life moves at a slower, more connected pace. Welcome to The Blue Ridge in Sanctuary Village, one of Franklin's most thoughtfully designed communities. This corner home rests beside a gentle creek and across from the lower park, inviting you to relax on the front porch while Main Street, the Greenway,
Build your dream home in the exclusive, gated Wildflower Subdivision—an upscale mountain community with top-tier amenities, including a clubhouse, pool, hiking trails, scenic overlook, and a peaceful community pond. Enjoy privacy, natural beauty, and luxury living all in one breathtaking location.
Perched in the treetops of the Heritage Hollow neighborhood, Hillcrest Cottage is a charming 2BR/1BA home just steps from downtown Franklin’s breweries, restaurants, and shops. This cottage offers an open floor plan with hardwood floors, a cozy gas fireplace, and a large kitchen island with gas range—perfect for the home chef. Natural light pours through the many windows, creating a bright and
Looking for the perfect spot to build your dream home? Look no further! TWO beautiful lots available, offering peace and privacy. 3-bedroom septic system already installed, well is already installed – a huge value and time-saver! These lots offer a phenomenal view and an excellent build site cleared and ready to go – just bring your plans. Whether you're ready to build now or invest for the
Secluded 3-bedroom, 4-bath log home located just 20 minutes from downtown Franklin. Includes an additional room that can be used as an office, den, or extra bedroom. Enjoy a large deck with beautiful views in a quiet, private setting. The last portion of the road is gravel, adding to the peaceful, tucked-away feel. Perfect for those looking for privacy, space, and a scenic retreat close to town.
The advertised rate of $8,373/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of April 19, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Beautifully updated and fully furnished, this 2/2 Villa in Mill Creek Estates, Golf and Country Club, is fully prepared for your comfort and enjoyment! Move-in ready, you will be well pleased with your luxurious new home! Open floor plan, lovely granite countertops and elegant LVP flooring. Added space and carport are included with this ideally situated end unit, complete with screened porch and
Property Id: 12958783/2 house with covered carport, nice yard, new flooring, fresh paint, minutes from downtown in nice neighborhood. Available 4/1/26. Monthly rent is $1,300.00 with first month, security and last month for a total of $3,900.00 to move in along with good credit report and acceptable rental application with background check. City water,electric and all yard maintenance
Cozy 2 bedroom 1 bath home on a half acre lot. Large front porch for relaxing, eat in kitchen, laundry area. Potential tenant must fill out an application
Two units available as per listing information. Quiet and private. Month-to-month lease with a longer term option after three months. Furnished with queen bed, lots of storage, shower bath, kitchen w/ 20 CF refrigerator, microwave, toaster oven, gas stove, driveway parking, heat/air and Wi-Fi. No pets , no smoking, one vehicle (firm). Showing by appointment only. Unit A $875/month (currently
Spacious and Beautifully Updated home - fully furnished - close to downtown Franklin. Lots of space upstairs and down, Big rooms plus plenty of storage and parking. Decks and Views! This home is move-in ready for your family convenience and available with 3 to 6 months lease and possibly longer. Price advertised is based on 6 month lease.
Two units available as per listing information. Quiet and private. Month-to-month lease with a longer term option after three months. Furnished with queen bed, lots of storage, shower bath, kitchen w/ 20 CF refrigerator, microwave, toaster oven, gas stove, driveway parking, heat/air and Wi-Fi. No pets , no smoking, one vehicle (firm). Showing by appointment only. Unit A $875/month (currently
This spacious two-bedroom, three-bath home sits just ten minutes from town and offers an open-concept main level with two primary suites. The lower level includes a bonus room, a guest bath, and a comfortable family room. Owners will consider one, possibly two pets with a non-refundable pet deposit, and tenants are responsible for all utilities and yard maintenance. There is ample parking
Beautiful Completely Furnished Mountain Chalet located in Deer Ridge. Gated Community. .9 acre of Mountain Land. parking for two cars. Up to 2 pets allowed. Stainless Steel Appliances , Washer and Dryer, Jacuzzi Tub, Walk in Closets. Two Decks Water, Internet, 3 Movie Channels included November 4 Available to Move In. One Years Lease Currently used as an Air BNB Property Linens kitchen items all
Lovely FURNISHED villa! New flooring and freshly painted. Fireplace, screened porch and open floor plan, located in beautiful Mill Creek Golf and Country Club. Public Golf Course. All dues paid by landlord. Level entry, all on one level. Easy access. This is one of the easiest access condos in this lovely golf-course community so you'll have no worries in winter. Well maintained roads throughout,
CONTACT AGENT TO BOOK this ideal 'MOUNTAIN/RIVER CABIN, monthly, weekly, or 3-night min. Gorgeous MOUNTAINS, plenty of privacy, and very lovely, clean and comfortable home overlooking the spectacular Little Tennessee RIVER! All this in the one vacation home you'll want to return to over and over. RIVER ACCESS with picnic table, FIREPIT and FISHING area just below the cabin. Enjoy our Huge
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
