Relocating to Henderson County

Henderson County is full of warm people, mountain culture, thriving businesses, and some of the most beautiful scenery in America. We encourage you to take full advantage of the many amenities enriching daily life here.

To request specific real estate information, download the "Real Estate Request" form below, complete and email to allison@hendersoncountychamber.org or fax to 828-693-8802.

Real Estate Request

Jump Off Rock, Photograph Provided by Lucey Agency

Welcome to Hendersonville, Photograph Provided by Lucey Agency

High Falls, Photograph Provided by Lucey Agency

History

Before European settlement, the area now known as Henderson County was a Cherokee hunting ground. Revolutionary War soldier William Mills was among the first settlers in the late 1780s, receiving one of the earliest land grants west of the Blue Ridge. Mills named several local landmarks that remain today, including Bearwallow, Sugarloaf, and Mills River.

Henderson County was officially formed in 1838 from the southern part of Buncombe County and was named for Leonard Henderson, Chief Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court. Hendersonville, the county seat, was chartered in 1847. The arrival of the railroad in 1879 marked a turning point for the region, increasing accessibility and fostering economic growth.

Agriculture, particularly apple cultivation, was the foundation of the county’s early economy and remains vital today, with Henderson County leading the state in apple production. Over time, tourism, manufacturing, and retirement development also became key economic drivers. The area has long been a popular retreat, with Flat Rock serving as a summer escape for South Carolina’s Low Country planters since the early 1800s.

Historic sites and communities further enrich the county’s heritage. Flat Rock is home to Connemara, the former residence of poet Carl Sandburg, and St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Church. Fletcher features Calvary Episcopal Church, known as the “Westminster Abbey of the South.” Many places, such as Zirconia, Etowah, and Tuxedo, retain names of Native American origin, reflecting the region’s deep-rooted history.

For detailed information about the history of Henderson County contact the Henderson County Public Library.

Climate & Geography

Climate

Henderson County enjoys a moderate, year-round climate typical of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Protected by higher ranges, it experiences milder winters than some surrounding areas. Summer highs average around 84°F, while winter highs reach about 45°F. Although temperatures drop below freezing on more than half the nights in winter, afternoons typically warm above freezing.

The county receives about 48 inches of annual precipitation, and the freeze-free growing season lasts roughly six months, supporting a strong agricultural presence. Summers are generally pleasant, with 90-degree temperatures occurring less frequently than in the eastern part of the state.

Geography

Henderson County is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, within an intermontane basin formed by the French Broad River and its tributaries. Covering approximately 375 square miles, the landscape features mountain ranges, rolling plateaus, and fertile valleys. The county is bordered by the Pisgah Ledge to the west and the Blue Ridge and Saluda Mountains to the east and south, creating a natural enclosure around the area.

Elevations range from about 1,200 feet along the Rocky Broad River to 5,200 feet at Young Pisgah Mountain. The county’s major waterways include the French Broad River, Mills River, Green River, Little River, Mud Creek, Clear Creek, Cane Creek, and Hungry River. The largest body of water, Lake Summit, is a reservoir used for hydroelectric generation by Duke Energy. The terrain varies significantly, with steep mountainsides, particularly around Bat Cave, where rock formations are rugged and near-vertical.

Economy

Economy

Henderson County’s economy is a diverse blend of industry, agriculture, tourism, and retirement communities. This multifaceted economic structure has evolved over time, reflecting the county’s adaptability and growth.

Agriculture and Tourism

The county’s fertile lands have long supported a robust agricultural sector, with apple cultivation being particularly prominent. Henderson County leads North Carolina in apple production, a testament to its rich farming heritage. The picturesque landscapes and mild climate have also established the area as a favored summer retreat for over a century, bolstering the tourism industry.

Industrial Development

Post-World War II, strategic initiatives aimed at economic diversification led to the attraction of various industries. Organizations like the Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development (HCPED) have been instrumental in this effort, focusing on bringing industries that offer quality employment opportunities while preserving the county’s renowned quality of life. This balance has fostered business growth without compromising the region’s tranquility and charm.

Employment

For information about employment in the Henderson County area contact:

Henderson County NCWorks Career Center

Blue Ridge Community College

130 Eagles Reach Drive (Sink Building), Flat Rock, NC 28731

828-694-1755

Employment by Private Industry

Construction 3,289
Manufacturing 5,565
Wholesale Trade 1,332
Retail Trade 5,244
Transportation and Warehousing 171
Information 266
Finance and Insurance 1.280
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing 333
Professional and Technical Services 1,889
Mgt of Companies, Enterprises 217
Administrative and Waste Services 1,795
Educational Services 2,798
Health Care and Social Assistance 7,511
Arts, Entertainment and Recreation 640
Accommodation and Food Services 4,140
Other Services Ex. Public Admin 1,202
Public Administration 1,710

Top Employers
Henderson County Public Schools (Education) 1000+
Pardee Hospital (Health Care) 1000+
AdventHealth Hendersonville (Health Care) 1000+
Ingles Markets (Retail Service) 1000+
Henderson County (Government) 500-999
Wilsonart International (Manufacturing) 500-999
Meritor, Inc. (Manufacturing) 500-999
WalMart (Retail Service) 500-999
Carolina Village 250-499
City of Hendersonville (Government) 250-499
Current (Manufacturing) 250-499
Sierra Nevada (Manufacturing) 250-499
Kimberly-Clark Corporation (Manufacturing) 250-499
Blue Ridge Community College (Education) 250-499
UPM Raflatac (Manufacturing) 250-499
Van Wingerden International, Inc. (Retail Service) 250-499

Communications

Newspapers

Asheville Citizen-Times, www.citizen-times.com
Published daily, PO Box 2090 Asheville, NC 28802
828-252-5622 or 1-800-672-2472

Hendersonville Lightning, www.hendersonvillelightning.com
Published Wednesdays, PO Box 1276,
Hendersonville, NC 28793, 828-674-0942

Hendersonville Times-News, www.blueridgenow.com
Published daily, PO Box 490, Hendersonville, NC 28793
828-692-5763 or 1-800-849-8050

Radio/Television

Henderson County is home to the following local radio stations: WHKP-1450AM/107.7 FM and WTZQ-1600AM/FM95.3.

Television stations representing all major networks available, as well as cable television hook-up (see: The Basics, page 21).

Education

More than 13,500 students attend school in Henderson County. For information on the public school system, contact:

Henderson County Board of Education/
Henderson County Public Schools
414 Fourth Ave. W. Hendersonville, NC 28739
828-697-4733, www.hendersoncountypublicschoolsnc.org

Public Schools in Henderson County:
Apple Valley Middle 828-697-4545
Atkinson Elementary 828-697-4755
Balfour Education Center 828-697-4629
Bruce Drysdale Elementary 828-697-5568
Clear Creek Elementary 828-697-4760
Dana Elementary 828-685-7743
East Henderson High 828-697-4768
Edneyville Elementary 828-685-7600
Etowah Elementary 828-891-6560
Flat Rock Middle 828-697-4775
Fletcher Elementary 828-684-0580
Glenn C. Marlow Elementary 828-654-3225
Henderson Co. Early College High School 828-697-4561
Hendersonville Elementary 828-697-4752
Hendersonville High 828-697-4802
Hendersonville Middle 828-697-4800
Hillandale Elementary 828-697-4782
Mills River Elementary 828-891-6563
North Henderson High 828-697-4500
Rugby Middle 828-891-6566
Sugarloaf Elementary 828-697-4600
Upward Elementary 828-697-4764
West Henderson High 828-891-6571

Charter Schools
FernLeaf Community Charter School 828-398-9268
Mountain Community Charter School 828-696-8480

Private Schools
Canongate Catholic High School 828-712-8924
Captain Gilmer School 828-684-8221
Christ School 828-684-6232
Fletcher Academy 828-687-5100
Fruitland Baptist Bible Institute 828-685-8886
Heritage Hall International School 828-693-6845
Immaculata Catholic School 828-693-3277
Wild Oak Independent School 828-620-1091
Veritas Christian Academy 828-681-0546

Colleges

Blue Ridge Community College
180 West Campus Drive, Flat Rock, NC 28731
828-694-1700, www.blueridge.edu

For those looking to continue their education, Blue Ridge Community College (BRCC) offers a wide range of academic programs for students who want to pursue a four-year degree, acquire a technical skill, learn how to start a business or obtain professional certification.

BRCC’s distance learning program allows students to take classes off campus. Through use of modern media, students can receive weekly lessons, complete assignments and communicate in a virtual classroom setting. The Henderson County JobLink Career Center, located on the BRCC campus, offers career planning, and training and job placement resources, which are available to all Henderson County residents.

Students of all ages learn new skills and pursue personal interests through continuing education programs. Focused Industrial Training (FIT) meets the particular needs of local industries by providing technical and specialized training for employees.

The Small Business Center at BRCC functions as a management information resource to enhance prospects for area small businesses.

For students who are 50 or older, the Blue Ridge Center for Lifelong Learning offers a place to pursue intellectual interests and enjoy the company of other active adults.

The Technology Education and Development Center allows area workers to learn new skills for better jobs and young people to prepare for the high-paying jobs of the future. College credit and continuing education courses in computer programming, networking, business information systems, Web development, and digital media and multimedia are taught.

For more information about programs and services offered by Blue Ridge Community College, contact the college by phone or visit its website.

Wingate University Hendersonville Campus

805 6th Ave. West, Suite 200 Hendersonville, NC 28739

828-697-0105, www.wingate.edu/hendersonville-nc

Wingate University, founded in 1896, established a regional campus in Hendersonville in 2011. Since that time, Wingate University – Hendersonville has emerged as a premier university in the health sciences. The university, housed in the Henderson County Health Sciences Center with Blue Ridge Community College, and the Pardee Hospital Cancer Center, currently offers the degrees of Doctor of Pharmacy and Masters in Physician Assistant Studies.

The Wingate University School of Pharmacy and Physician Assistant Studies program are fully accredited programs. Wingate University has become a nationally recognized leader in the education of pharmacists and physician assistants. While the Doctor of Pharmacy degree is a 4-year program, and the Masters in Physician Assistant Studies degree is a 2-year post-baccalaureate program, both have the ultimate goal of shaping future healthcare leaders. In order to do so, Wingate University provides a student-centered environment that facilitates critical thinking and problem-solving skills, scholarly inquiry, and service to the institution, professions, and community. Due to our small class sizes, the Hendersonville campus offers many opportunities for students to connect with faculty, staff, and the community.

Healthcare

Henderson County offers a wide variety of healthcare services through its two local hospitals as well as other medical facilities. The two full-service hospitals, Pardee Hospital and Park Ridge Health, provide a wide range of care to residents of Henderson and surrounding counties.

UNC Health Pardee

800 N. Justice Street, Hendersonville, NC 28791

828-696-1000, www.pardeehospital.org

UNC Health Pardee is a not-for-profit community hospital that has served the people of Henderson County and surrounding areas since 1953. Affiliated with UNC Health, Pardee is licensed for 222 acute care beds and stands as the second-largest employer in Henderson County, with more than 1,200 employees. The hospital’s mission combines advanced medicine with compassionate care, delivered close to home.

Recognized for its dedication to quality, Pardee was the first and only hospital in North Carolina to receive accreditation under the ISO 9001:2008 quality standard, reflecting a deep commitment to patient-centered care and continuous improvement. Today, its medical staff includes more than 269 physicians across 39 specialties, along with over 96 allied health professionals.

Pardee’s main campus in Hendersonville is supported by a growing network of facilities and services across the region. The Mission Pardee Health Campus, located at 2695 Hendersonville Road in Arden, offers urgent care, imaging, lab services, a retail pharmacy, and additional outpatient services to meet the community’s needs outside of traditional hours. Expansion plans include physical therapy and expanded primary and specialty care offerings.

Beyond hospital walls, UNC Health Pardee supports the health of the community through a wide range of outpatient services, including the Rehab & Wellness Center, Signature Care Center, urgent care locations, and a comprehensive network of physician practices. Preventive care and wellness education remain a priority, with outreach efforts and community programs designed to promote long-term health.

Pardee’s legacy began in 1913 with Patton Memorial Hospital, a 26-bed facility staffed by just five physicians. When Margaret R. Pardee Memorial Hospital opened in 1953, it signaled a new era of modern healthcare for the region. Today, Pardee continues to grow in both reach and capability while remaining deeply rooted in its mission: to provide quality, accessible care to all—regardless of their ability to pay.

The Pardee Hospital Foundation plays a vital role in supporting this mission. As a 501(c)(3) organization, the Foundation brings together hundreds of community members whose time, resources, and generosity help advance healthcare excellence in Henderson County. Donations support everything from life-saving technology to programs that benefit both patients and healthcare providers.

AdventHealth Hendersonville

100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville, NC 28792

828-684-8501, www.adventhealth.com/hospital/adventhealth-hendersonville

AdventHealth Hendersonville has been a cornerstone of compassionate, whole-person care in Western North Carolina for more than 100 years. What began as a small, single-building care center has grown into a trusted regional healthcare provider known for blending medical innovation with a deeply rooted mission of faith-based healing.

Since employing North Carolina’s first registered nurses in 1916 and introducing the state’s first 64-slice CT scanner in 2006, AdventHealth has remained at the forefront of medical advancement. Today, more than 1,100 dedicated team members—including over 230 physicians—continue that legacy by delivering high-quality care that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit.

As the only faith-based hospital in Western North Carolina, AdventHealth Hendersonville is guided by its mission to extend the healing ministry of Christ. Patients, visitors, and team members alike benefit from an environment that fosters personalized care and a sense of hope and wholeness. The hospital is accredited by The Joint Commission and is part of AdventHealth, a connected system of care spanning 39 hospitals across the United States.

AdventHealth Hendersonville offers comprehensive services including a state-of-the-art Breast Center, Cancer Services, and Sleep Center. The recently updated Baby Place provides a welcoming and comfortable space for labor and delivery with family-focused amenities. Renovated surgical suites and laboratory facilities enhance the quality and experience of patient care.

For urgent but non-life-threatening needs, the hospital’s FastTrack ER offers efficient treatment. Outpatient services include physical therapy and rehabilitation across four convenient locations, while HOPE Behavioral Health and Home Health programs continue to serve the growing needs of the community. Orthopedic care, led by Southeastern Sports Medicine, ensures expert treatment for injuries and joint care.

AdventHealth South Asheville, located at 379 Long Shoals Road (I-26, Exit 37), extends the system’s reach with a modern facility offering primary and specialty care, weekend hours, same-day appointments, and access to some of the region’s top physicians.

Many of these services and community outreach initiatives are supported through the AdventHealth Foundation, helping extend care beyond the walls of the hospital and into the lives of those who need it most.

Four Seasons Compassion for Life

571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731

828-692-6178 or 1-866-466-9734, www.fourseasonscfl.org

A non-profit organization that provides holistic care in harmony with the goals of individuals with serious life-limiting conditions, while offering support to their families and loved ones. Offers hospice, palliative Care, a clinical research department, community bereavement services, a grief support program for children, music therapy, and consulting services. Comprehensive services are provided wherever a patient resides - a family residence, an assisted living facility, a nursing home, a hospital, or at the Elizabeth House, a 19-bed in-patient facility.

Henderson County Department of Public Health

1200 Spartanburg Hwy., Suite 100 Hendersonville, NC 28792

828-692-4223, www.hendersoncountync.org/health

The Health Department offers a wide variety of clinical services including pediatric primary care, family planning services and prenatal care, all on a sliding-fee scale. Medicaid, Health Choice, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and some other insurance plans are also accepted. Home visits and case management for pregnant women and pre-schoolers are available. The department also offers a nutrition and WIC program, immunizations, foreign travel vaccines, school health services, tests for communicable diseases and performs screenings for sexually transmitted infections, tuberculosis, AIDS, and breast and cervical cancer (pap smears and mammograms). The environmental health section inspects and regulates food and lodging establishments and camps and also issues permits and inspects septic systems, wells, and public swimming pools.

Real Estate Info

Senior Citizens

Henderson County is an ideal retirement destination. Because of its moderate climate, slower-paced lifestyle, and unmatched scenery, retirees from throughout the United States think of Hendersonville as the quiet, relaxing goal at the end of their careers. Not only does Henderson County offer a multitude of activities for senior citizens from outdoor excursions to arts and craft projects, it also boasts a variety of retirement communities in all price ranges, from condominiums and modular homes to elegant, peaceful gated communities.

Agencies with information for seniors are:

Council on Aging, 105 King Creek Blvd.,
Hendersonville, NC 28792, 828-692-420, www.coahc.org
828-692-6693: Meals on Wheels
828-692-3320: Sammy Williams Senior Meal Site

Henderson County Parks & Rec Dept., 708 South Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792, 828-697-4884

Land-of-Sky Regional Council, Area Agency on Aging
339 New Leicester Hwy., Asheville, NC 28806, 828-251-6622

Relocating to Henderson County

Building Business for a Strong Community.