Mills River, NC

123 Apartments for Rent

The town of Mills River was incorporated in 2003, but it has been known unofficially as Mills River for more than 200 years. As a matter of fact, some of the land in the town has been owned by the same families since the 1700s.

With spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Mills River is a terrific place to search for apartments and townhouses for rent. It's an up-and-coming area that is close to the hip, mid-size city of Asheville, yet it is still rural enough to be considered country living.

Moving to Mills River

Mills River is close enough to Asheville to enjoy what the city has to offer, but it's far enough away that it's an escape from the college kids and hippies that make it their home. Finding a house to rent in Mills River is truly lucking out.

Because it is far enough from the campus of UNC Asheville, most students aren't looking for housing here. The best time to start shopping for two-bedroom apartments or a duplex for rent in Mills River is in the summer, before the fall leaves and the mild winters set in. "Snowbirds" are a commonly found in this part of the state, as northerners who want a break from brutal winters will often maintain a winter home here. Sub-letters and landlords will usually require the first month's rent, as well as an application fee and / or a security deposit before approving your move-in. Where allowed, pets will usually add an additional fee to each month's rent. Renters will also need to provide proof of employment and pay stubs.

Life in Mills River requires driving, as much of it is still mostly rural. However, several subdivisions with sidewalks are scattered throughout town. Your search for apartments may be difficult as the community consists mostly of rental homes.

Neighborhoods of Mills River

While there aren't specific neighborhoods in Mills River, there are a few communities you might want to scope out.

Mills River Village: There are many luxury homes on lots of land that make up this particular neighborhood.

High Vista: This area is home to the High Vista Golf Club and has the requisite gorgeous mountain views and above-average home prices.

Homestead at Mills River: An area with great views of Mt. Pisgah, this centrally located community has affluent homes and a pristine, wooded setting. You'll find Mills River Restaurant and Choo-Choo BBQ Express in this area.

Life in Mills River

Mills River is close to big-box shopping retailers and chain restaurants, but it's also close to independently run shops and eateries. The region is known for its commitment to environmentalism and conservation of natural resources. Many residents maintain their own gardens, and in the more rural sections of town, their own livestock. Residents also love their pets, so dog parks and pet-friendly establishments are everywhere. If you're lucky enough to live in a pet-friendly apartment, you'll have to take your four-legged friend to Mills River Park, which has two dog parks -- one for big dogs and another for the little ones. Barkwells is one of the only vacation retreats in the country to be specially designed for people and dogs. Each cabin features a dog door, dog bowls and dog beds.

Beer drinkers will be pleased by the opening of a new branch of the Sierra Nevada brewery, opening in summer 2014. Plans include a restaurant, tours and samples. Travelers should take note that the Asheville Regional Airport is right down the street, which provides flights all over the country.