Welcome to the ultimate guide to investing in short-term rentals in the beautiful western Carolina city of Asheville! Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this Buncombe County destination boasts a breathtaking and bountiful natural beauty as well as thriving arts and culinary scene. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, our comprehensive guide will help you find the perfect vacation rental property.

This guide will cover recommended investment locations, how to finance these STRs with Easy Street Capital’s industry leading STR Loans and the latest updates on the rules and regulations for short term rentals in Asheville, North Carolina! One of the hottest and most popular travel destination markets in the United States, it is also home to a complicated and constantly changing regulatory environment for STR investors. We've got you covered with a comprehensive Asheville STR Guide as well as up to date info on the latest developments in Asheville STR rules and requirements.

Why is Asheville So Popular for Short Term Rentals?

When it comes to choosing where to invest in short term rentals – market matters – a lot! And the most important thing in choosing a market is “demand drivers.” What are demand drivers? These are things in the area that drive people to come to visit for short stays. These are the people that are going to be booking your short term rental, paying the rents and providing the real estate returns. So its very important to choose a market with many diverse demand drivers.

Asheville is a great market for Vacation Rentals primarily because it has hip and popular demand drivers for a variety of visitors. The combination of the Blue Ridge Mountains and French Broad and Swannanoa rivers make Asheville a Nature Lovers paradise! With overflowing options of nature-based activities, such as fishing, birding, hiking, ziplining and all sorts of water sports – demand for short term rentals located near these activities is consistently strong. However, Asheville also combines proximity to these natural attractions with the offerings of a medium-sized city with many urban offerings too.

Top Things To Do in Asheville, North Carolina (STR Demand Drivers)

Brewery, Winery & Distillery Tours

Asheville, North Carolina, has earned a stellar reputation for its vibrant and diverse craft beer scene. Often referred to as “Beer City USA,” the city boasts an impressive number of breweries per capita, making it a top destination for beer enthusiasts. The city’s breweries are known for their innovative and high-quality brews, ranging from classic IPAs to unique sours and barrel-aged stouts. Some of the top breweries in Asheville include Burial Beer Co., Wicked Weed Brewing, and Highland Brewing Company. Each offer a distinct atmosphere and a wide range of beers. With its thriving beer culture and top-notch offerings, Asheville is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the world of craft beer.

Check out Asheville Brewery Tours to book one of the city’s best and most comprehensive beer tours!

Asheville’s thriving wine scene also drives a significant amount of tourism. The city’s impressive array of wineries and vineyards attract visitors from far and wide. The region’s unique terroir and dedicated winemakers produce a diverse range of high-quality wines, from crisp whites to robust reds. Top offerings include the Biltmore Estate Winery, the most visited winery in the United States. Biltmore features a variety of award-winning wines and a memorable tasting experience. Other notable wineries in the area include the family-owned Addison Farms Vineyard, known for its stunning views and handcrafted wines, and the charming Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, which features a variety of estate-grown wines and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. With its picturesque landscapes and world-class wines, Asheville is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.

In addition to breweries and wineries, Asheville has begin to develop a burgeoning reputation for its thriving distillery scene. Top destinations include the award-winning whiskeys of Cultivated Cocktails, the unique gin and brandy creations of The Chemist, and the small-batch spirits of Eda Rhyne Distilling Co., which sources local heirloom corn and grains to create a uniquely North Carolina flavor.

Nature Lover Options in Asheville

Asheville is a nature lover’s paradise, offering an array of outdoor activities that showcase the region’s stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the best nature-based activities for visitors to Asheville:

With the Blue Ridge Mountains as its backdrop, Asheville boasts a plethora of hiking trails for all skill levels. Popular trails include the Craggy Pinnacle hike, which offers breathtaking panoramic views, and the scenic trails at the North Carolina Arboretum, where visitors can explore a variety of native flora and fauna.

The French Broad River, the third-oldest river in the world, flows through Asheville. Visitors have ample opportunities for kayaking, tubing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Visitors can also take a guided rafting trip on the nearby Nantahala River for a thrilling whitewater experience. The stunningly beautiful broad river offers more than just boating. There are numerous options to satisfy every visitor. This includes awesome ziplining, canyoneering and offroad e-biking to name a few! Many of these adventures have starting points at locations within 30 minutes of downtown. No need to choose between a nature getaway and a city trip!

Check out French Broad Adventures for plenty of Nature Activities near Asheville!