Brevard

Overview 

Brevard, North Carolina is a quaint town located in a valley of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Its location gives residents plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities like enjoying the many trails or visiting the many waterfalls that surround the area.  

Climate & Geography 

Brevard is located in a quiet Blue Ridge Mountain valley. Much of the landscape is dotted with waterfalls, such as the Looking Glass Falls, Connestee Falls, and Batson Creek Falls, as well as rivers and forests with trails for hiking and long nature walks. The town is located near the highest point of elevation called Chestnut Knob. 

Brevard experiences about 67 inches of rain per year on average, well above the national average. Summer highs average in the 80s, and winters average in the mid 20s. Brevard experiences little snow, averaging about 8 inches per year. 

Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment 

Brevard’s popular recreational activities focus on the natural landscapes, perfect for residents who enjoy the outdoors. Crystal Mountain Gem Mine, Connestee Falls, and Graveyard Fields and Falls are among the best places for long nature walks and hikes. 

Museums include the WNC Military History Museum, the Transylvania Heritage Museum, and the Haen Gallery. For shopping, residents can visit the Shabby Shack Mall, the Transylvania Farmers Market, the Whistlestop Market, or SAFE’s Attic/Interiors. 

The small town is surrounded by nature and much of its culture is centered around it. Nearby Asheville, an hour away, offers even more amenities.

Cost of Living & Taxes

The cost of living index falls below the state and national averages. Housing costs are above the national average, but the transportation costs are significantly lower compared to the rest of the state and U.S. 

Social Security benefits are not taxed, but other retirement income like IRAs, 401(k)s, and pensions are taxed at a flat tax rate of 5.49 percent. However, retirees who previously worked in the state or federal government may be able to take advantage of the Bailey exemption program which gives them a tax break on certain retirement benefits.  

Health Care

Health care options for Brevard residents include local Transylvania Regional Hospital as well as health care providers in neighboring towns. Such hospitals include Margaret R. Pardee Memorial Hospital, Park Ridge Health-Hendersonville, Prisma Health North Greenville Hospital, AnMed Health Cannon, and Springbrook Behavioral Health Systems-Travelers Rest.