There are so many incredible rural towns to live in North Carolina. Some of those are the oldest in the state, others fly under the radar yet still retain a significant amount of their very own culture. Yet, with so many gorgeous, quaint, small towns…it can be hard to find the perfect fit. If you’re already wanting the small-town life, it’s safe to say you also want some peace and quiet as well. Sure, we have great small towns, but during certain times of the year, those small towns can get bogged down with tourists and terrible traffic. If you’re seeking a life of solitude, these 10 towns might just be the perfect fit for you.

1. Washington
Washington, NC, USA
Flickr / Grauke/O
There's no way you won't find peace, quiet, and solitude when you're located right on the Pamlico River. One of the most charming towns in rural North Carolina, Washington still retains coastal charm while being a simple, charming, and cool small town all on its own.
2. Pinehurst
Pinehurst, NC, USA
Pinehurst
Pinehurst was recently named the "Best Place to Live in North Carolina," by Smart Travel Tips. Aside from being the 'cradle of golf,' with award-winning golf courses, it's also one of the safest cities in America and quite cute as well. Golf carts drive up and down Main Street, cute shops and cafes line the streets, and it's a place where eventually, everyone knows your name.
3. Bald Head Island
Bald Head Island, NC 28461, USA
David Broad/Wikimedia
If you think living on a gorgeous, secluded island accessed only by boat and ferry sounds like a dream, think again. Bald Head Island is home to 339 year-round residents, who gladly transport themselves around by humble means of a golf cart. While the island sees plenty of vacationers during the summer months, it still retains a relaxed and remote feel no matter what the time of year.
4. Banner Elk
Banner Elk, NC 28604, USA
Larry Lamb/Wikimedia
This small and gorgeous mountain town in North Carolina is a haven for food, culture, and outdoor adventure, and of course, for those seeking a laid-back mountain life that's not far from awesome attractions.
5. Hillsborough
Hillsborough, NC 27278, USA
Flickr / The Alliance For Historic Hillsborough
If you consider yourself more of the bohemian type, then you'll feel right at home in Hillsborough, a beautiful rural town in North Carolina. Located in Orange County, this town is quite different from nearby Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Durham. The streets are lined with eccentric coffee shops, art galleries, and great places to grab a bite. It's no wonder it's been named one of the coolest small towns in America.

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6. Rodanthe
Rodanthe, NC 27968, USA
Flickr / Bill Dickinson
If you've always wanted to pursue the beach bum life but hate the crowds and commercialization of the OBX, you'll love the charm you'll find in Rodanthe. There are houses plopped almost right in the ocean so you'll have an amazing view, surfers in the waves, and friendly locals. This small, romantic, and literary beach town will transport you to a whole other world.
7. Southern Pines
Southern Pines, NC, USA
Southern Pines
Located in the sandhills, Southern Pines is a cute small town that holds over 100 years of history. While Pinehurst is the 'cradle of golf,' Southern Pines is also perfect for the golf lover.
8. Rutherfordton
Rutherfordton, NC, USA
Rutherfordton
Located amongst the gorgeous, rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge, Rutherfordton is a rural area in North Carolina that often flies under the radar. While you're sure to find quiet, peaceful streets, not far away you're treated to the Tryon Equestrian Center, Chimney Rock, Lake Lure, and even an award-winning whisky distillery.
9. Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock, NC, USA
Flickr / Jonathan McTarnagahan
One of the most charming towns in North Carolina, Blowing Rock is a place with incredible beauty everywhere you look. With a population of just over 1,000, it's one of the most popular retirement destinations in North Carolina. The charming town offers peace of mind (and quiet) but all you have to do is look around to be mesmerized by beautiful mountain views.
10. Edenton
Edenton, NC 27932, USA
Flickr / -ted
If you want a small town feel, that's a bit larger than the others mentioned, Edenton is home to a population of around 5,000. Located along the Albermarle Sound, you get plenty of coastal charm, with rich, historical touches. It's a great alternative to the more tourist-packed destinations like Bath or New Bern.

Did your favorite small town in North Carolina make the list? Which other towns would you add? Let us know in the comments below and keep an eye out for part two where we’ll feature even more lovely rural towns to live in North Carolina.

If you love small towns in North Carolina, these 10 coastal towns are unbelievably unique in their own way, and some you might have never even heard of!

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Small towns in North Carolina

Jackie Ann | September 19, 2022

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When it comes to scenic towns in North Carolina, you’ve got plenty to choose from. There’s no denying the Tar Heel State is home to some of the most picturesque views in the entire country and one of our favorites is Bryson City. This charming town in rural North Carolina has a population that hovers around 2,000 residents and is an outdoor oasis for nature lovers. From waterfalls to Smoky Mountain hiking trails, you’ll never run out of things to do in this picture-perfect town. 

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One of the perks of small-town North Carolina life is that you’re never too far away from a delicious meal, usually made from family recipes that’ll leave you feeling like you’re now a member of the family! If you’re craving Mexican food, you can’t go wrong with a day trip to Pineville. This sleepy little town has one of the highest populations of Hispanics and Latinos in North Carolina, and there are several authentic Mexican restaurants peppered throughout the town.

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