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
Laura Thomas,
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 64 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Franklin, NC over the last 12 months is $303,500, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Tucked away at the end of a quiet road, this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 3-bath home offers the perfect mix of privacy, comfort, and timeless mountain charm. Step inside to find rich hardwood floors, a cozy wood-burning fireplace, and a custom updated kitchen designed for both everyday living and elegant entertaining. The luxurious master suite boasts a spa-like bath with a walk-in tile
BACK ON MARKET DUE TO BUYER FINANCING FALLING THROUGH! Immaculately maintained and thoughtfully updated, this custom mountain home offers easy main-level living just minutes from downtown Franklin. Vaulted ceilings, walls of windows, and abundant natural light create a bright, airy feel while seamlessly bringing the outdoors in. Enjoy long-range mountain views year-round from the wraparound
Exciting new development! Welcome to River Green, Franklin's newest contemporary condominium community where curated design meets exceptional craftsmanship. Located within the city limits with paved access, city water, sewer, and natural gas, "The Alexander" is the first of a thoughtfully planned 16-building community with just four residences per building. Walk to the Little Tennessee Greenway,
Welcome to your own private mountain retreat! Nestled on 12.92+/- beautiful acres with breathtaking mountain views, this meticulously maintained property offers the perfect blend of privacy, quality craftsmanship, and functionality. With only one restriction—no mobile homes—you'll have the freedom to bring your chickens, goats, and enjoy the homestead lifestyle you've been dreaming of. The
Enjoy easy main-level living in this beautifully designed mountain retreat, tucked away in a quiet gated community offering amenities rarely found in the area, including a large billiards room, pool, sauna, and fitness equipment. This exceptionally private 3BR/3BA home sits on over 2 acres with ownership on both sides of a bold, rushing creek, mature blueberry bushes, and lush natural beauty
Welcome to 115 Timber Lane, located in the desirable Mill Creek community in Franklin, NC! This inviting 3-bedroom, 3-bath mountain home offers convenient main-level living and the added privacy of backing up to U.S. Forest Service land. The main level features an open-concept kitchen, dining, and living area with hardwood floors, an updated kitchen with white cabinetry and stainless steel
Some homes simply feel right the moment you arrive. Tucked away just minutes from the heart of Franklin, this impeccably maintained, single-level 2-bedroom, 2-bath home with two bonus spaces offers the rare combination of peaceful surroundings and everyday convenience. Enjoy paved access all the way to the front door, a new roof, and the confidence that comes with a home that has been
Welcome to Haus of Hare, a tiny home that feels like it was lifted from the pages of a storybook. With its French-English cottage charm, whitewashed wood walls, and rich walnut accents, the interior creates a warm, timeless space beneath soaring 11-foot ceilings. Sunlight pours through generous windows, filling each room and framing long-range mountain views that stretch endlessly beyond. A wide
Tucked away at the end of a quiet road, this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 3-bath home offers the perfect mix of privacy, comfort, and timeless mountain charm. Step inside to find rich hardwood floors, a cozy wood-burning fireplace, and a custom updated kitchen designed for both everyday living and elegant entertaining. The luxurious master suite boasts a spa-like bath with a walk-in tile
Built in 1974 this unique home offers a thoughtfully designed layout with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and laundry/utility space conveniently located on the first floor. Upstairs, you'll find an open-concept living area featuring high ceilings, a spacious kitchen, living room, and the primary bedroom. Step outside onto the deck to relax, entertain, or enjoy the surrounding views.
Exciting new development! Welcome to River Green, Franklin's newest contemporary condominium community where curated design meets exceptional craftsmanship. Located within the city limits with paved access, city water, sewer, and natural gas, "The Alexander" is the first of a thoughtfully planned 16-building community with just four residences per building. Walk to the Little Tennessee Greenway,
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
Beautifully updated and thoughtfully designed, this 2-bedroom, 3-bath home with a spacious bonus room in the basement offers comfort, style, and exceptional functionality. The main level features two bedrooms and two beautifully renovated bathrooms, including a private primary suite with an ensuite bath. The gorgeous new kitchen is the heart of the home, complete with quality finishes, abundant
Now Renting in Franklin, NC! Beautiful 2 Bedroom / 1.5 Bath Condos with Garage Available in a Private, Small Community! Features Include: Brand New Appliances Attached Garage Beautiful Landscaping 3 Peaceful Koi Ponds Stunning Entrance Community Garden Area Quiet & Private Setting These charming condos offer comfort, privacy, and a beautifully maintained environment you'll love coming home to.
Property Id: 2202141 Available October 12th. Now accepting Applications. Stunning Mid-Century Modern Retreat in Cowee Valley! Newly refreshed 3 bed, 2 bath gem. Inside there's a dream kitchen with granite countertops and a gas stove. There are easy to clean tile floors throughout. Two fully remodeled bathrooms: one with a tub/shower combo, the other a Jack-and-Jill bathroom featuring a
FURNISHED STUDIO RENTAL AVAILABLE OCTOBER 1ST! Looking for a clean, convenient, all-inclusive place to call home? This fully furnished rental will be available October 1st! $1,000 per month $1,000 security deposit Water included Power included Internet included Trash pickup on site Coin laundry on site No pets Great option for someone looking for a simple, move-in-ready rental with utilities and
EXECUTIVE 1 BED / 1 BATH RENTAL — MOVE-IN READY! Looking for a peaceful, fully furnished place to call home? This beautiful executive rental at 1748 C Allison Watts Rd is ready for you! $1,600/month $2,000 security deposit Fully furnished Washer & dryer included ALL utilities included No pets Move-in ready Enjoy a peaceful branch on the property with a little waterfall—the perfect setting to
CONDO FOR RENT — MOUNTAIN & GOLF COURSE VIEWS! Looking for a beautiful, well-maintained condo in a peaceful gated community close to town? This 2 bed / 2 bath condo in Mill Creek Subdivision is ready for its next renter! Features: 2 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms 2 screened-in porches Beautiful hardwood floors Freshly painted Great condition Mountain & golf course views Gated community Conveniently
Rent this fully furnished cabin or get-a-way in Western North Carolina. This 1 bedroom 1 bath cottage sits on 3.25 acres and is just a short 5 minute drive to downtown Franklin with all shopping, hospital, restaurants and about 25 minutes to Highlands, NC. Very private setting and only a handful of homes even off this road. Paved state maintained access to Rose Hill and then gravel road with
Charming mountain area cabin available just minutes from downtown Franklin. This cozy home offers privacy, peaceful surroundings, and beautiful mountain views while still being close to all town conveniences. Property Features 1 Bedroom — Perfect for one person or a couple 1 Full Bathroom — Clean and functional Wrap around porch — Overlooks the mountains and provides a
Charming 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath home for rent in Franklin, offering great living space across two finished levels. Upstairs features 2 bedrooms, a 1.5 bath, an open kitchen, and a living room. The full finished basement includes a full bath, a laundry room, a flex room ideal for a home office, guest space, or den, and its own separate living room, great for extra living space or entertaining. Recent
Wonderful mountain cabin only 4 miles from downtown Franklin. Cabin Private but not secluded.The main floor of the cabin is close to 900 Sq ft with 2 bedrooms and one bath. Nicely sized living room and kitchen. The basement area is also finished with an additional kitchen and bathroom. There is no access to the basement from inside. NO Pets Allowed
Great in-town location and great neighborhood!!! 2BD/2BA apartment with washer/dryer, central heat/air and all kitchen appliances. Approx 1100 sq.feet. Internet/satellite available at tenant's expense. Please call or email for current availability. 828-524-5601 Units range from $975 to $1,100.00
Lovely, well-priced family 3/2.5 home with 1 Acre+ of rolling land in a pastoral neighborhood. FIBER OPTIC INTERNET NOW AVAILABLE! (Plus Starlink.) This spacious home has been well cared for and has had only one owner. You'll love the peaceful setting and ideal location within 12 minutes of downtown Franklin, NC. Primary Bedroom is large with ensuite bath, including tub and separate shower.
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
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.
