Franklin, NC Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Franklin, NC: What You Need to Know

The Town of Franklin is located in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in western North Carolina. It’s the seat of Macon County and dubbed the Gem Capital of the World for its popular gem mining.

Things to Do in Franklin, NC

Tourists flock to Mason’s Gem Mine in Burningtown, just eight miles from Franklin. The mine, which opened in 1952, has an abundant natural deposit of gems such as mica, garnets, and corundum. Visitors can dig from the mountainside and sift for gems in flumes. There are other gem mines throughout Cowee Valley. The Nantahala National Forest is the largest of North Carolina's national forests, covering 531,148 acres of terrain. It’s a popular destination for whitewater rafting, camping, picnics, and other outdoor activities. The forest’s over 600 miles of trails attract hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Be sure to visit the lookout tower at Wayah Bald for a breathtaking view of the forest. 

Shopping in Franklin, NC

Locals and visitors alike love the Franklin Farmers Market on Palmer Street downtown every Saturday morning. Deal Farms is also a go-to place in Franklin for fresh, locally grown produce. Hit the downtown area for an array of unique arts and crafts stores, clothing and footwear boutiques, and furniture and house décor stores. Downtown offers an array of restaurants, popular breweries, and food trucks. For a traditional shopping center, head over to Macon Mall.

Is Franklin, NC Budget-Friendly?

Yes. Franklin, home to 3,940 residents, is an affordable little town. Its cost of living rate and housing costs are 3.8% and 4% lower than the national average respectively, with median gross rent at $756. Food cost is 9.3% higher than the national average. North Carolina levies 5.25% in income tax and 4.75% in statewide sales tax. 

How Did Franklin, NC Get its Name?

The town was named for Jesse Franklin, who served as a North Carolina senator and governor. He was one of two state commissioners who organized the town in 1820. Franklin became the county seat when Macon County was established in 1828. Franklin was incorporated in 1855.

What’s Unique About Franklin, NC?

Franklin is known for both its Cherokee and Scottish heritage. Settlers from Scotland worked closely with Cherokee Indians in developing not just Franklin but other areas in the region. Their rapport was in sharp contrast to adversarial relations between whites and Native Americans at the time. Every year, Franklin hosts the Cherokee/Scottish Heritage Celebration showcasing lectures, music, demonstrations, and merchandise touting both cultures.