North Carolina's Affordable Rural Town Has Scenic Views, A Walkable Downtown, And Off-The-Grid Vibes

Located in Stanly County, 56 miles east of Charlotte Douglas International Airport, is a scenic town with a rural vibe despite its fairly sizable population of over 16,000. Albemarle is an impressively affordable place, with a 12% lower cost of living than the rest of the country, and 5% lower than the average cost of living in the state of North Carolina. It was named one of the best small towns to live in the Carolinas by True Homes, due to its affordable housing, peaceful way of life, and proximity to natural attractions. In the rural areas surrounding Albemarle, some people are opting to live a more off-the-grid lifestyle by exploring alternative energy sources, such as solar. 

Albemarle was incorporated in 1857 and functioned as a predominantly textile hub until the late 20th century. This is a walkable town with a welcoming downtown area centered around Main Street. If you like old architecture or spooky, haunted places, you need to stroll past Snuggs House, the oldest house in Albemarle. The Albemarle Opera House, which has been closed for over 100 years, is said to house various ghouls and shadowy figures dancing across the stage. 

The town is surrounded by thick trees and views of the Uwharrie Mountains, which are one of America's oldest mountain ranges. Albemarle has a couple of chain hotels and a few inns set in historic homes. There are also camping options in nearby Morrow Mountain State Park.

Downtown Albemarle has a collection of shops, cafes, and attractions to explore. History buffs can learn about the area's historical heritage at the free Stanly County Museum. Antique hunters should pay a visit to The Marketplace, a unique mall that hosts over 150 unique vendors selling a range of unique goods. If you want to release some rage, let it out with some axe-throwing at Tomahawk Throwing Range & Blade Shop. For coffee and food, head to Second Street Sundries, which offers a range of affordable meals and provides employment opportunities for people with autism.

Wine lovers should take a short, six-mile trip to Dennis Vineyards Winery, a cute, family-owned establishment with lovely garden views to enjoy as you sip a glass (or three). Stony Mountain Vineyards is a family-owned vineyard with spectacular Uwharrie Mountain views, and Uwharrie Vineyards & Winery is yet another option for an afternoon of wine, beer, or soft drinks. 

On Saturday mornings between May and October, you can visit the Albemarle Downtown Farmers Market for some fresh, tasty goods. There are loads of events happening in town throughout the year, including classes, musical productions at the local theatre, a other community events. And if you happen to be visiting during late spring, be sure to pay a visit to the annual Summertime Sip Festival, featuring wine from local vineyards and bites from food trucks. While you're in the area, you might also consider a visit to another of North Carolina's best places to live — the town of Apex is just two hours away.

Travel just two miles out of downtown Albemarle and you'll arrive in City Lake Park, a tranquil, forested area offering a short, relaxing hike through nature. Rock Creek Park, just on the edge of town, is a nice place to go for some pickleball, picnics, and a playground for the kids.

Morrow Mountain State Park, one of North Carolina's most underrated mountain parks, is located just 6.5 miles from Albemarle and holds 5,881 acres of forest, mountains, lakes, and viewpoints. You can camp, explore the museum, fish, swim in the pool (it's closed for some of the year, so check first to avoid disappointment), picnic, and enjoy abundant scenic views, smell the trees, and see 170 species of birds, deer, turtles, and other small animals.

This park also includes 37 miles of hiking trails and 19 miles of horseback riding routes. Popular hikes include the moderate five-mile Morrow Mountain Trail, which leads along well-marked paths through forests and past wildflowers and wildlife, towards an expansive summit overlooking the trees and lakes. Travel slightly farther and you'll arrive at the Uwharrie National Forest, which encompasses over 50,000 acres of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, trails, and camping opportunities.