Welcome to Franklin, NC—a mountain town where scenic beauty, vibrant culture, and small-town charm combine to create one of the most desirable places to live in Western North Carolina. Whether searching for a mountain getaway, your forever home, or an investment property, Franklin offers the lifestyle you've been dreaming about.
At Vignette Realty, we're proud to call Franklin home—and even prouder to help you make it yours.
Franklin is perfectly located, just a short drive from charming towns like Highlands, Cashiers, Bryson City, Sylva, and Lake Glenville. These neighboring communities add even more richness to the area, whether you're looking for new dining spots, day trips, or potential investment properties.
Franklin is a foodie haven with restaurants, breweries, bakeries, and cafes that rival any mountain town in the region.
Lazy Hiker Brewing: Local craft beer staples.
Currahee Brewing: Riverfront beer garden with a laid-back vibe.
Slanted Window Vineyards Tasting Station: Wine tasting in the heart of town. Snif, Swirl and Sip on some of the best wines made here in Macon County! Senamore Vineyard and Farms offers tours to visitors and locals so make sure you submit a reservations. You'll find the host and Hostess very knowledgeable and fun. Not only is Franklin North Carolina a great place to by a home and settle, it's a great lifestyle most people are in search of!
Just Donuts: Not just donuts! Try their bagels. They also have great egg, sausage, bacon breakfast sandwiches and very creative donuts which would make a New York baker cry!
828 Cafe: A cozy spot for breakfast or lunch.
Haywood Smokehouse: A go-to for savory barbecue.
Yonder Community Market: Locally sourced goods perfect for your new kitchen.
Franklin Pizza Tavern: Hand-tossed pies for dine-in or takeout.
These local eateries make living—and dining—in Franklin even more enjoyable for residents and visitors alike.
Step inside the Smoky Mountain Performing Arts Center (SMPAC) in Franklin, North Carolina—a place where community, creativity, and connection come to life. Opened in 2009, this state-of-the-art venue was born from the vision of a local businessman determined to bring family-friendly entertainment to the heart of the Carolina Smokies.
Since its opening, SMPAC has welcomed audiences to an impressive variety of performances: from classic country concerts and legendary rock & roll, to Broadway-style musicals, comedy shows, plays, and community productions. Whether you’re six or sixty, there’s always something worth experiencing on its stage.
Backed by a passionate team of volunteers and a small but dedicated staff, the center has become more than a venue—it’s a true community hub. Families perform together, friendships blossom, and even love stories begin under its lights. Every detail is designed with the audience in mind:
Seating for 1,500 guests
No seat more than 80 feet from the stage
Fly loft, orchestra pit, and versatile stage
High-tech LED wall and 3D projection
This intimate-yet-impressive design ensures every show is unforgettable, no matter the size or genre.
At Vignette Realty, we believe that moving to Franklin is about more than finding a home—it’s about embracing a lifestyle. From world-class entertainment at SMPAC to mountain adventures, antique shopping, and community events, Franklin offers the perfect blend of culture and charm.
Whether you’re searching for a family home, a mountain getaway, or a place to start your next chapter, our team helps you discover the properties that fit your story.
Step into the tranquil beauty of Western North Carolina’s rivers with Fish Tales Outfitters Fly Shop & Guide Service. This video takes you along on a guided fly fishing trip that highlights more than just the thrill of the catch—it’s about slowing down, connecting with nature, and embracing the timeless rhythm of river life in the Carolina Smokies.
Whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced angler, Fish Tales offers guided trips for every skill level:
2-hour intro sessions perfect for newcomers.
Half- and full-day adventures that dive deeper into the craft.
Expert instruction that helps you refine your cast and read the river.
Along the way, guests enjoy stunning mountain scenery, learn insider tips, and share in the excitement of a great catch—including a big rainbow trout featured in this outing.
Fly fishing in Franklin isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. It’s about slowing down, breathing in crisp mountain air, and reconnecting with what matters most. For many, days on the river become the heartbeat of living in the Smokies.
At Vignette Realty, we believe that life in Franklin, NC is defined by experiences like these. From fly fishing on pristine rivers to hiking mountain trails, exploring antique shops, or catching a show at the Smoky Mountain Performing Arts Center, Franklin is a community that blends recreation, relaxation, and culture.
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a home where the river is your backyard and the mountains are your horizon, Franklin offers endless opportunities. Our team is here to help you find the perfect property to start your own “fish tales.”
On May 3, 2025, Franklin, North Carolina came alive with the sound of music at the inaugural Sweet Carolina Music Festival, held at Veterans Memorial Park. This first-year event drew music lovers from across Western North Carolina, creating an unforgettable day filled with community, culture, and celebration in the heart of the Smokies.
The festival featured an incredible lineup of performers, including:
John Morgan
Joe Lasher
Jennifer Hart
Jason Passmore
Chip Perry Band
Alton Lane Band
R.A. Nightingale
From country to rock, soulful ballads to high-energy sets, each artist brought their own unique sound to the stage, making the day a true showcase of Southern talent.
The Sweet Carolina Music Festival was about more than just performances—it was about community. Festival-goers enjoyed local vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly fun, all while soaking in the mountain views that make Franklin such a special place. Smiling faces, great food, and neighbors coming together set the tone for what promises to be a new annual tradition.
As the festival wrapped up, one thing was clear: Sweet Carolina is here to stay. Whether you were there in person or are just now discovering it through this video, the energy of the day carries forward into anticipation for next year’s celebration.
At Vignette Realty, we know that living in Franklin is about more than finding a house—it’s about being part of a thriving, welcoming community. Events like the Sweet Carolina Music Festival capture the spirit of mountain living: neighborly connection, shared experiences, and memories made under the Carolina sky.
If you’re ready to make Franklin your home, our team is here to help you find the perfect place to write your own story.
Enjoy a beautiful drive from Franklin to Highlands - watch the below video and enjoy a nice summer drive through the road to Highlands, NC. Beautiful waterfalls, massive cliffs and a winding country road.
Downtown Franklin is walkable and full of unique local businesses:
Trail Mix: A haven for hikers and outdoor lovers.
Kitchen Sink: A favorite for cooks and entertainers.
Blush Boutique: Trendy fashion finds just steps from local real estate listings.
Looking for a property near downtown? Vignette Realty can show you homes within walking distance to Franklin’s best shops and restaurants.
When you step into Franklin, North Carolina, you’re stepping into more than just a mountain town—you’re entering a place where history, culture, and community come together. One of the highlights featured in this new video showcases Franklin’s three-floor shopping destination: a 20,000-square-foot marketplace with more than 55 vendors offering antiques, vintage finds, and one-of-a-kind pieces from around the world.
From finely crafted furniture that stands the test of time, to rare gems from Germany, Japan, and beyond, the marketplace invites visitors to wander, explore, and uncover timeless treasures. Each floor offers a unique mix of high-end antiques, everyday collectibles, and quirky surprises, making every visit a new experience.
But this video goes beyond antiques—it captures the essence of Franklin’s lifestyle. Local voices share why they’ve chosen to call this mountain town home: the slower pace, the welcoming community, and the breathtaking scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s a reminder that Franklin isn’t just a destination for collectors—it’s a place where stories are written and new chapters of life begin.
At Vignette Realty, we know these stories well. Our clients come for the antiques, the mountains, and the charm—but they stay for the lifestyle. Whether you’re searching for a cozy cottage, a mountain retreat, or a home where history meets modern living, Franklin offers something for everyone.
As one visitor perfectly puts it: “There’s never a dull moment here.”
Franklin is a dream for hikers and nature lovers.
With direct access to:
Franklin, North Carolina isn’t just known for its mountain views and small-town charm—it’s also home to one of the fastest-growing sports in the country: pickleball. At Parker Meadows Complex, locals and visitors alike are discovering why this game has become a favorite in the Carolina Smokies.
This new video showcases the fun, fitness, and friendships that come alive on the pickleball courts. From welcoming players of all ages to offering great exercise and social connection, pickleball in Franklin is more than just a game—it’s a lifestyle.
Inclusive & Fun: Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, the sport is easy to learn and perfect for all skill levels.
Community Connection: Players highlight how the game fosters friendships and a strong sense of belonging.
Unique Style of Play: Learn why the “dink”—a soft but strategic shot—is considered the most important (and trickiest) move on the court.
The video also highlights Franklin’s exciting pickleball growth:
Plans for new courts to meet rising demand.
Upcoming tournaments that bring players from across Western North Carolina.
Charity events that combine competition with giving back, including fundraisers benefiting Appalachian Animal Rescue.
At Vignette Realty, we know that life in Franklin is about more than just homes—it’s about the lifestyle. From antique shopping and mountain hikes to thriving pickleball courts, Franklin offers something for everyone. If you’re ready to discover homes for sale in Franklin, NC, and be part of this vibrant mountain community, our team is here to help.
Franklin has several Pickleball clubs including:
Blue Ridge Mountains Pickleball Club
Step into the tranquil beauty of Western North Carolina’s rivers with Fish Tales Outfitters Fly Shop & Guide Service. This video takes you along on a guided fly fishing trip that highlights more than just the thrill of the catch—it’s about slowing down, connecting with nature, and embracing the timeless rhythm of river life in the Carolina Smokies.
Whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced angler, Fish Tales offers guided trips for every skill level:
2-hour intro sessions perfect for newcomers.
Half- and full-day adventures that dive deeper into the craft.
Expert instruction that helps you refine your cast and read the river.
Along the way, guests enjoy stunning mountain scenery, learn insider tips, and share in the excitement of a great catch—including a big rainbow trout featured in this outing.
Fly fishing in Franklin isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. It’s about slowing down, breathing in crisp mountain air, and reconnecting with what matters most. For many, days on the river become the heartbeat of living in the Smokies.
At Vignette Realty, we believe that life in Franklin, NC is defined by experiences like these. From fly fishing on pristine rivers to hiking mountain trails, exploring antique shops, or catching a show at the Smoky Mountain Performing Arts Center, Franklin is a community that blends recreation, relaxation, and culture.
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a home where the river is your backyard and the mountains are your horizon, Franklin offers endless opportunities. Our team is here to help you find the perfect property to start your own “fish tales.”
To find locations to fish at in Macon County, many clients have visited Blue Ridge Highlander which has a complete list of Western North Carolina locations.
Wayah Bald Lookout Tower: Panoramic mountain views.
Pickens Nose: A moderate hike with unforgettable vistas.
The drive to Highlands, featuring Dry Falls, Bust Your Butt Falls, and riverside pull-offs.
Saturday mornings in the spring, summer and fall is a perfect time to meet up with friends, talk to local farmers and pick up fresh produce, honies, meats and other home grown products. It is all real at the market, including the mushroom guy so have some fun. Below is a video Vignette Realty created to provide people with the experience of the market in Franklin, NC. Enjoy the movie, many people have!
Enjoy weekends at Lake Nantahala, Lake Chatuge, Lake Fontana, Glenville Lake, and more—perfect for boating, kayaking, or lakeside picnics.
Highlands Outpost: Snow tubing, skating, and the longest mountain coaster in NC.
Highlands Aerial Park: Zipline through 95 acres of stunning mountain wilderness.
Check out other great videos about our Western North Carolina Towns!
From cozy cabins to modern mountain homes, Franklin’s real estate market offers a variety of options for:
First-time buyers
Vacation home seekers
Retirees looking for peaceful mountain living
Investors wanting to capitalize on tourism and short-term rentals
At Vignette Realty, we specialize in connecting clients with homes for sale in Franklin, NC that fit their lifestyle and goals. Whether you're relocating, retiring, or investing, we offer personalized service with local insight.
Franklin, NC isn’t just a destination—it’s a place to call home. Let Vignette Realty be your trusted guide to buying or selling property in this incredible mountain town.
🏡 Contact us today to schedule a showing, explore available listings, or learn more about the real estate opportunities waiting for you in Franklin, NC.
People were also interested in the Franklin Chamber of Commerce Visitors Guide - Check it out.
4,221 people live in Franklin, North Carolina, where the median age is 47.3 and the average individual income is $27,002. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Average individual Income
There's plenty to do around Franklin, North Carolina, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Health Nuts Market, Juanitos Ice Cream Shop, and Slanted Window Tasting Station.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining · $ | 3.06 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 0.77 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 0.73 miles | 49 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
| Dining · $ | 0.82 miles | 29 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
| Dining | 0.1 miles | 33 reviews | 4.8/5 stars | |
| Dining · $$ | 0.52 miles | 100 reviews | 4.8/5 stars | |
| Dining | 0.82 miles | 4 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining · $$ | 1.63 miles | 169 reviews | 4.7/5 stars | |
| Dining · $$ | 0.52 miles | 71 reviews | 4.7/5 stars | |
| Dining | 0.82 miles | 8 reviews | 4.6/5 stars | |
| Dining | 0.2 miles | 5 reviews | 4.6/5 stars | |
| Dining | 0.57 miles | 35 reviews | 4.6/5 stars | |
| Dining | 0.17 miles | 35 reviews | 4.5/5 stars | |
| Shopping | 0.27 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 4.27 miles | 37 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 0.69 miles | 4 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.5 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.1 miles | 5 reviews | 4.8/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 0.27 miles | 4 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Franklin, North Carolina has 1,995 households, with an average household size of 2.1. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Franklin, North Carolina do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 4,221 people call Franklin, North Carolina home. The population density is 861.97 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
Men vs Women
Population by Age Group
0-9 Years
10-17 Years
18-24 Years
25-64 Years
65-74 Years
75+ Years
Education Level
Total Households
Average Household Size
Average individual Income
Households with Children
With Children:
Without Children:
Marital Status
Blue vs White Collar Workers
Blue Collar:
White Collar:
