Is Hendersonville NC Affordable? Cost of Living, Housing & Taxes Explained
If you’re considering relocating to Hendersonville, NC, one of the biggest questions on your mind is likely: “Can I afford it?” With its charming mountain setting, thriving downtown, and low-key lifestyle, Hendersonville offers a balance of affordability and quality of life that appeals to retirees, families, and remote professionals alike. Here’s how the cost of living in Hendersonville stacks up—and why it’s often considered a smart financial move.
Overall Cost of Living
Hendersonville’s cost of living is about 8% lower than the national average, according to data from ERI and Payscale. Compared to Asheville or Charlotte, you’ll find your dollars stretch further here across most categories, including housing, healthcare, and daily expenses.
- Groceries: ~5% below U.S. average
- Utilities: ~8% lower than national average
- Transportation: Lower gas and insurance rates than urban areas
- Healthcare: 6–10% more affordable than national averages
Learn more about Hendersonville’s healthcare system and why it’s ranked among the best in the region.
Housing Prices
One of the most attractive elements of relocating to Hendersonville is the relatively affordable housing market, especially when compared to nearby Asheville.
- Median Home Price (2024): ~$385,000 (BestPlaces)
- 2-Bedroom Rent Average: ~$1,400/month (Payscale)
- Property Taxes: 0.64% effective rate (SmartAsset)
Explore the best neighborhoods in Hendersonville to see which community aligns with your lifestyle.
Utilities and Essentials
On average, residents spend about $140/month for electricity and $70/month for natural gas. Internet costs range from $60 to $100 depending on speed and provider. Water/sewer bills typically fall between $50 to $70/month. These costs are reasonable compared to similarly sized towns across the Southeast (Payscale).
Taxes and Retirement Affordability
North Carolina is known for being retirement-friendly, and Hendersonville is no exception:
- Social Security Income: Not taxed (Kiplinger)
- Pension/IRA/401(k) Income: Partially taxed with standard deductions
- Sales Tax: 6.75% in Henderson County (NC Department of Revenue)
Learn more about why retirees love Hendersonville.
Real Estate Snapshot by Area
- Downtown Hendersonville: $400K–$700K for renovated bungalows and townhomes
- Laurel Park: $450K–$900K; elevated lots and mountain views
- Etowah and Mills River: $350K–$600K; newer builds and family neighborhoods
- Cummings Cove, Champion Hills, Kenmure: $500K–$1.2M+; gated golf communities
- Flat Rock: $500K–$1M+; wooded lots and estate-style homes
Comparison: Hendersonville vs. Asheville
| Category | Hendersonville | Asheville |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $462,758 (Canopy MLS; June 2025) | $509,000 (Canopy MLS; June 2025) |
| Cost of Living Index | ~92 (US avg = 100) | ~104 |
| Property Taxes | 0.64% (SmartAsset) | 0.74% |
| Sales Tax Rate | 6.75% | 7% |
| Commute Time | ~20 minutes | ~25–30 minutes |
Final Thoughts
Hendersonville offers excellent value for those seeking small-town living with big-time charm. From housing prices and utilities to retirement-friendly tax policies, the financial advantages are clear. Whether you’re relocating from out of state or downsizing from a nearby city, you’ll find that Hendersonville delivers the lifestyle you want—without the sticker shock.
Interested in exploring your home options in Hendersonville? Connect with a local expert from the Live Play WNC team to get a personalized home affordability plan and neighborhood match.