Explore Mills River

Mills River, NC Neighborhood Guides

Featured image for the Mills River NC Homes for Sale Community Guide Page
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Homes for Sale in Mills River, NC

Mills River is one of Henderson County’s oldest communities.

The town covers 22 square miles and has a rich agricultural heritage, earning it the moniker “fertile crescent.” It has seen changes in its landscape, with the evolution of horticultural, sod, and horse farming shaping its identity. It also experienced growth in industry and job opportunities, along with the development of large residential subdivisions. Its real estate market features properties on sizable lots and undeveloped lands. Many homes for sale in Mills River, NC, often back up to lush forests, providing residents with tranquility and privacy. Our Mills River neighborhood guide will help you navigate this charming locality!

RURAL CHARM: Mills River has a rustic, small-town character thanks to the open fields, lush forests, and scenic landscapes. Its tranquil ambiance is accentuated by the Pisgah National Forest gracing its western borders. This over 500,000 acres of nature preserve boasts expansive hardwood forests, whitewater rivers, majestic waterfalls, and extensive trail networks. You’ll have endless outdoor recreation, from hiking to fishing to camping. Experience a sense of tranquility and serenity that comes with living amidst such natural beauty.

COMMUNITY HUB: Though the homes are spread out, the community boasts a beloved gathering spot, attracting an average of 8,000 visitors weekly. The 48-acre Mills River Park features a ballfield frequently used by local baseball teams, three multipurpose fields adaptable for various sports, and a 1.25-mile paved multi-use trail. You can also enjoy playing tennis, pickleball, and basketball and exploring the picnic shelters, dog park, and playground. It is an excellent venue for recreation, sports, and socialization.

PROGRESSIVE PLANNING: Despite its serene ambiance, it is a forward-thinking town with the potential for growth and progress. The “Making Mills River” Comprehensive Plan reflects this proactive approach. It focuses on preserving agriculture and open space, investing in infrastructure development, and creating programs to achieve specific outcomes that pave the way for a bright and promising future. By fostering economic growth, it aims to provide exceptional opportunities for prosperity and well-being to its residents, property owners, and businesses.

Market Overview

Mills River, NC Real Estate Information

Median Home Price

$754,000

Median Price Per Sqft

$291

Average Days on Market

41

Median Price of Sold Homes

$489,000

Home Ownership Percentage

84.6%

Median Rent

$968

Homes for Sale in Mills River, NC

10 Real Estate Facts About Mills River, NC

  • Mills River obtained town status in June 2003 and is a part of the Asheville Metropolitan Statistical Area.
  • The Mills River Chapel was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988, adding to its rich heritage.
  • Mills River is served by two elementary schools, Mills River Elementary, and Glenn Marlow Elementary, which offer top-notch education. The Blue Ridge Community College is an excellent resource for college-level and technical training classes.
  • About 75% of Mills River, NC, homes are owner-occupied, reflecting a strong sense of community and stability.
  • The median age of Mills River real estate is 26 years, with a significant portion built between 2000 and 2013. Many homes were also constructed prior.
  • Mills River, NC, houses for sale range from $429,000 to $2.3M with 1,100 to 4,200 sq ft. of living space.
  • Properties sit on generous lot sizes ranging from 0.23 to 33 acres.
  • Mills River, NC, real estate also includes undeveloped lands, with prices ranging from $15,000 to $1.8 M, from 0.54 to 124 acres.
  • The town plays a pivotal role in economic development in Henderson County, with over $483 million invested in industrial development since 2006, creating more than 1,100 jobs.
  • It maintains a low tax rate of $0.08 per $100 of assessed valuation and additional taxes collected for Mills River Fire and Rescue at $0.11 per $100 of valuation.
Find Your Home

Latest Homes for Sale in Mills River, NC

40
Active

$49,999,999

581 Sagee Woods Drive

Highlands, NC, 28741
Beds7Baths10SqFt12,190MLS#4120551
48
Active

$22,000,000

139 Hollen Lane

Mooresville, NC, 28117
Beds10Baths18SqFt9,870MLS#4096193
48
Active

$22,000,000

2108 River Hill Road

Murphy, NC, 28906
Beds3Baths3SqFt2,975MLS#4083944
24
Active

$20,000,000

75 Treehouse Haven

Asheville, NC, 28804
Beds22Baths27SqFt14,405MLS#4101330
48
Active

$19,000,000

1907 Flattop Cliffs Drive

Linville, NC, 28646
Beds5Baths7SqFt8,750MLS#3905490
34
Active

$18,000,000

14051 Island Drive

Huntersville, NC, 28078
Beds5Baths8SqFt12,636MLS#4020713
On the map

Mills River, NC Map

Mills River is on the northwest side of Henderson County. It shares its northeastern border with Asheville and the town of Fletcher, while its southern border is adjacent to the unincorporated communities of Horse Shoe and Etowah. Highways 280 and 191 are the main routes, offering easy access to nearby cities. It is also just minutes from Interstate 26.

Loyd Alexander - North Carolina Realtor
Take the next step

Ready to take the next step?

As a member of the community also raising my family here, I have deep understanding of what’s most important when it comes to making one of life’s biggest decisions. Regardless of transaction size, I bring dedication and passion to ever new opportunity. Working with me means that you’ll be kept informed throughout the entire real estate process—good news or bad.

When you’re ready to begin your next real estate adventure, I can’t wait to meet you.

Meet the locals

Who Lives in Mills River, NC

Population

7,321

Median Age

43.5

Average Household Income

$97,333

Number of Households

2,754

Average Household Size

2.57

Cost of Living Score

102.4

Entertainment

Things to do in Mills River, NC

North Mills River Recreation Area & Campground

Escape to a rustic mountain getaway and enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and biking amidst stunning natural surroundings.

Mills River Park

It is an oasis boasting sports courts, a playground, a dog park, a fishing pier, and a kayak/canoe launch.

Bold Rock Mills River Cidery

Experience the taste of the region and savor delicious ciders made from locally sourced apples.

Sierra Nevada Taproom & Restaurant

Experience a rotating seasonal menu that highlights the best of local farmers, purveyors, and artisans.

Education

Schools in Mills River, NC

School Name
Grades
Admission
Mills River Elementary
K – 5
Public
Rugby Middle School
6 – 8
Public
West Henderson High School
9 – 12
Public
Mills River Seventh-day Adventist School
K – 8
Private
Imago Dei Classical Academy
K – 12
Private
Great Expectations High School
9 – 12
Co-Op Home School