Riverside community and small-town vibe in the mountains of Murphy
Located between Knoxville and Atlanta, Murphy is a community in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, with a small-town vibe. Despite a population of only about 1,600 people, Downtown Murphy is thriving, immersed in local brewpubs and festivals, surrounded by forests along the Hiwassee River and scenic hiking trails in the depths of lower Appalachia. "Everyone is so friendly, and there's just a certain energy here," says Donna Srabian, an area local and team lead at RE/MAX Town & Country. "We don't have traffic. We have lakes, rivers, mountain views and hiking away from the rat race. This is the way people want to live, and they love it."
Murphy offers plenty of shops and restaurants for residents to enjoy and explore.
Launch your boat in Murphy at the Payne Street Boat Ramp for a day of fun on the Hiwassee River.
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1970s colonial homes and log cabins
Houses sit on shady, wooded lots and gravel roads centered around downtown. Architecture includes Craftsman, midcentury and cabin-style homes. Many properties, mainly newer homes on the edge of town, are reminiscent of log cabins, with wooden exteriors in densely forested areas. Home prices range from $100,000 to $600,000. “People will buy a vacation home and then move here full time,” Srabian says. “Once people live here or have a second home here, they tend to stay.”
In Murphy, a cabin style home is popular with families looking for vacation houses.
Some houses in Murphy are separated by trees.
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Breweries and restaurants in this historic downtown
Its community spirit and Main Street culture are the highlights of this rural village. Historic Downtown Murphy features 20th-century architecture and locally owned storefronts along the Unicoi Turnpike, its central thoroughfare home to breweries, restaurants and boutiques. Shopping centers with box store retail are about 3 miles north on U.S. Highway 19, with supermarkets such as Ingles Market and Walmart Supercenter. Legends Steakhouse serves classic southern cuisine in a vintage atmosphere. Valley River Brewery and Eatery is a local watering hole serving brick-oven pizza and craft beer in a rustic space with DIY décor. “I honestly didn’t think so many breweries and wineries could exist in such a small town,” says David Brown, a resident who has lived in the area for over 20 years. “It’s captured in time with the same kind of small-town lifestyle.”
Murphy residents can get all their grocery needs at Ingles.
Murphy locals enjoy delicious food at Legends Steakhouse.
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Fishing and rafting on the Hiwassee River
Near multiple lakes and the Nantahala National Forest, Murphy has plenty of access to outdoor recreation. Konehete Park offers tennis courts near the Murphy River Walk, a 3-mile informational trail with boardwalks along the Valley River. Murphy Health and Fitness is a 24-hour gym with a swimming pool and personal trainers. Mountain bikers can head to Piney Knob Trails, a 700-acre watershed area with 13 miles of trails around Fain Mountain. The Hiwassee River is one of the area's most popular attractions, with trout fishing and Class II rapids for whitewater rafting. "We have two lakes: Apalachia and Hiwassee. You go out on the lake, and you might see four boats. It's paradise," Srabian says. Local waterways also feed into Chatuge Lake, with scenic hiking trails and boating areas about 15 miles east.
A group of friends in Murphy make a plan for their next adventure.
Residents get their daily steps in at the Murphy River Walk trail.
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Valley River art, museums and festivals
The Valley River Arts Guild showcases a regional gallery with over 50 canvas paintings and a monthly art walk. The Cherokee Historical Museum tells the regional history of the Cherokee peoples, with more than 2,000 artifacts and exhibits of the "Trail of Tears." Residents can visit the Murphy Farmer's Market for farm-fresh products on Saturday mornings during spring and summer. The Murphy Spring Festival features kids' activities and a beer garden in May. Local bands play bluegrass and folk music concerts monthly during the Fain Alley Music Series.
Learn about the history of Murphy at the Cherokee Historical Museum.
Murphy residents support local artists by buying their work at the Valley River Arts.
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Curriculum at tech-focused Cherokee County Schools
Murphy Elementary School earns a B grade from Niche, emphasizing technology and an after-school program. Murphy Middle School also has a B and a state-of-the-art STEM Lab. Murphy High School receives a B-minus on the same campus, providing an Army JROTC program and study halls for SAT prep.
Murphy Elementary School has 536 students in grades PK, K-5.
Murphy High School has 489 students in grades 9-12 with a student-teacher ratio of 14 to 1.
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Day trip to Atlanta and other big cities
Cherokee County Transit (CCT) vans provide daily door-to-door transportation for residents. Atlanta is roughly 120 miles south, and Knoxville is about 100 miles north on state Route 68. The Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is the closest airport for those who need to catch a flight, about 85 miles west on U.S. Highway 74, the area's central expressway. "We are within two hours of Atlanta, Chattanooga and Knoxville. We are close to small-town stuff, and it's a day trip to the big city," Srabian says.
Sound concern and flood risk
Murphy is the site of several crypto-mining facilities. Residents who live near Harshaw Road on the southeast side of town may frequently hear the whir of a jet engine, which is the sound of computer systems running software while being cooled by fans. Additionally, properties along the Hiwassee River and the Valley River may be at risk of potential flooding.
Written By
Jackson Hardy
Photography Contributed By
Anna Dukovich
Video By
Edward Pokoj
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Donna Srabian Team,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Murphy, NC sell after 80 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Murphy, NC over the last 12 months is $325,000, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Tucked in The Meadows at Fox Ridge, this furnished log-style cabin blends rustic charm with modern comfort. Set on a level, usable lot with peaceful frontage on Bearpen Creek, it's easy to picture quiet mornings on the screened front porch that spans the length of the home—your new favorite spot for coffee and conversation. Inside, hardwood floors and natural wood finishes create a warm,
Every sunrise here feels like a private showing of the mountains—endless year-round views stretching across the horizon, inviting you to slow down, breathe deeper, and feel at home. Located in The Overlook at Martin's Creek, this one-of-a-kind 2024 build offers a rare blend of craftsmanship, privacy, and true mountain living. The community now also features newly paved roads, enhancing access and
Set within the gated community of The Sanctuary at Vance Mountain, this lot offers the kind of long-range scenery that's hard to come by and even harder to forget. With sweeping, 270-degree mountain views, this is the backdrop for a home that truly feels like an escape. If you've been searching for privacy, scenery, and a connection to the outdoors, this one delivers. Enjoy access to a
Discover a stunning mountain subdivision in Murphy, NC, offering breathtaking views and serene living. With water and power available, this property is perfect for building your dream home or getaway. Conveniently located near downtown Murphy, you'll enjoy easy access to shopping, dining, and outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and boating.
8.3+/- acres of UNRESTRICTED land minutes from downtown Murphy and lake Hiwassee, property has 4 unexpired, 2 bedroom septic permits- (valid until 2029+/-) . As well as possible perpetual access to a spring on a nearby property per deed reference! Buyer agent to verify As well as survey of property of how it could be divided into lots - great for developers looking for a great investment! Gentle
Tucked just outside the gated section of The Sanctuary at Vance Mountain, this 1.67-acre lot offers a beautiful balance of usability and mountain setting. A gentle slope leads to a spacious, more level building area, giving you flexibility that can be hard to find in the mountains. A small stream runs through the property, while seasonal mountain views offer a glimpse of what's possible. With
Beautiful mountain cabin offering warm rustic charm and incredible views just minutes from town. The inviting interior features an all-wood design with soaring vaulted ceilings, stunning hardwood floors, and an open living area centered around a cozy gas log fireplace with stone surround. The kitchen includes granite countertops, stainless appliances, and a functional island perfect for gathering
Wake up where the air is cooler, the views stretch endlessly, and nature sets the pace. Perched at the very top of the mountain, this exceptional lot at Wilderness Creek Falls boasts nearly 360-degree panoramic views, offering breathtaking scenery in every direction—sunrises, sunsets, rolling ridgelines, and layers of mountain beauty as far as the eye can see. Situated at just under 3,000 feet in
Privacy close to Murphy. This property joins US Forest Service land and is close to Lake Hiwassee. Paved road to the property. Gated entrance with very nice homes. There is a creek on the property. Underground power. Shared well. Expired septic permit. Build your forever home in a perfect location.
Tucked along the banks of Persimmon Creek in the Indian Rock Springs subdivision, this 7-acre tract in Murphy, NC offers the perfect balance of peaceful seclusion and close-to-town convenience. With gentle slopes, multiple potential building sites, and minimal restrictions, the property is ideal for those dreaming of a private mountain getaway, multi-home retreat, or family compound. Towering
Million Dollar View on this 1.51 acre building lot. Septic approval has expired and will need to be renewed with the county. Paved Road access, underground electric and Fiber internet. Western sunset view for miles
Escape to your own private mountain retreat with this charming cabin nestled in the woods near Murphy, NC. Situated on a peaceful, wooded lot, this inviting home offers the perfect blend of rustic character and comfortable living. Inside, you'll find a warm and welcoming open-concept living, dining, and kitchen area highlighted by a stunning stone-front gas log fireplace and soaring cathedral
Property Id: 2421306This is a quiet cabin community that values peace and serenity and is suited for tenants who enjoy a calm, respectful environment. -No loud parties, music, or disruptive noise. -No smoking, vaping, or drugs are permitted. -No pets are permitted. Rent is $1,550/month and includes electricity and internet. Cabin is on a septic system and shared
This inviting rental home is located at 220 Nellie Circle in Murphy, NC, offering a quiet residential setting with convenient access to downtown Murphy, shopping, and local schools. Nestled in a peaceful neighborhood, this property is ideal for tenants seeking comfort, privacy, and a relaxed mountain-town lifestyle. The home features a functional floor plan with comfortable living space and
Beautiful three bedroom two bath ranch style home. Very private with a large yard, carport and circular driveway. This home has a large kitchen, living room, three large bedrooms and a laundry room all on one level! Wood burning fireplace in the dining area. There is an unfinished basement with plenty of room for storage! Circular driveway winds around the beautiful yard.
Welcome to this well-maintained rental home. Situated in a quiet residential area, this property offers a peaceful setting while still being conveniently close to local shopping, dining, and schools. The home features a comfortable layout with ample living space, natural light, and practical design throughout. The kitchen provides plenty of cabinet and counter space, making it ideal for everyday
Welcome to peaceful mountain living at 280 Cabin Lane in beautiful Murphy, North Carolina. This inviting rental offers a comfortable interior and a serene setting, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the quiet charm of the area while staying within a short drive of town amenities. The home features a well-maintained layout with plenty of natural light and practical living space, creating a warm
Beautiful 2 bedroom 2 bath cabin located in quiet location built in 2022. Nicely updated kitchen with large great room and covered back porch. Fiber internet available. NO PETS!
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