Wendell Falls
Raleigh, North Carolina
Boone, North Carolina
What It Is Like to Retire in Boone
Boone, Heart of the High Country, is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of northwestern North Carolina. The population of this town named for Daniel Boone, was about 20,00 in 2020, but seems to be growing very fast. A college town, Boone is the home of Appalachian State University which is very large and very much a part of the town. On a recent visit the streets were thronged with students, tourists, and residents. The downtown is interesting with shops and restaurants. The highlight of the summer season is an outdoor amphitheatre portrayal of the life and times of its namesake in "Home in the West". Don't miss our Retirement Tour of the western Carolinas, Virginia and Georgia where we talk about Boone and other interesting towns.
Where to Retire in Boone and Home Prices
There are active adult communities in Boone. The median home value was $485,263 in mid-2024, according to Zillow.com.
What Is Special about Boone
When entering the town you get the feeling that it is growing and vital. Storefronts are occupied. Students and visitors are in the streets. There is plenty of parking and most seem to be filled. Many locally owned restaurants and shops are available. There's a farmer market every Saturday. There's also a Daniel Boone Days yearly festival with music, food, and storytelling. The 3 mile Greenway Trail is a popular local attraction. Appalachian State University makes the town fun and lively.
What Is Not Special about Boone
The small, homey rural feel isn't for everyone. On a recent visit traffic was terrible. There appear to only be 2 roads in and out of town and in the late afternoon both were overwhelmed.
Who Will Like Retirement in Boone
Those who like living amidst history, mountains, and a college crowd retire to Boone. If you want to have a vital downtown, this is a good place for you. It is definitely an outdoors oriented town.
Local Economy Is Driven by
Appalachian State U. and tourism are big parts of the local economy. Samaritan's Purse, an international christian humanitarian organization run by Franklin Graham, Billy Graham's son, is headquartered in Boone. It is the economic hub of the High Country.
Climate and Physical Environment
Boone has chilly-to-mild winters and very warm-to-hot summers.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
Boone has a lot going on culturally, and much of that comes from Appalachian U. The University Forum Lecture Series brings interesting speakers to Boone. Its Institute for Learning offers classes and lectures. The County Library is a popular spot with many selections. And the Main Street offers a choice of interesting shops and restaurants, plus some theatres.
Crime
Crime is a little over half the national average.
Medical facilities
Watauga Medical Center and Blowing Rock Hospital
Transportation
Boone Inc. Airport. Boone is above average in walkability when compared to other communities.
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