Why People Love Cashiers & Highlands
Perched on a plateau at over 3,400 feet, Cashiers and Highlands form the crown jewels of Western North Carolina's luxury mountain communities. The elevation delivers notably cooler summers — often 10–15 degrees below surrounding valleys — which has attracted discerning buyers from Atlanta, Charlotte, and beyond for over a century.
Highlands features a sophisticated village center with fine dining, upscale boutiques, and cultural offerings including the Highlands Playhouse. Cashiers offers a more relaxed, pastoral feel with stunning views of Whiteside Mountain, access to Lake Glenville, and proximity to Panthertown Valley. Both communities are surrounded by protected national forest land, ensuring the natural beauty that defines this area will endure.
Real Estate in Cashiers & Highlands
This is Western NC's premier luxury real estate market. Gated communities like Wade Hampton, Mountaintop, and Chattooga Club feature estates on expansive lots with world-class golf, private clubhouses, and concierge amenities. Properties in these communities often range from $1M to well over $5M.
Outside the gates, you'll find charming cottages, mountain homes with waterfall views, and private acreage. More accessible options in the broader Cashiers-Glenville-Sapphire area start in the $400K–$700K range. The seasonal nature of the market means spring and summer inventory tends to be strongest.
Things to Do
- Hike Whiteside Mountain for dramatic cliff-face views
- Visit Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls along US-64
- Boat or fish on Lake Glenville — the highest lake east of the Mississippi
- Dine at Highlands' acclaimed restaurants
- Explore the Highlands Biological Station and Nature Center
- Play golf at some of the Southeast's most exclusive mountain courses
Homes & Land for Sale in Cashiers / Highlands
Featured listings in Cashiers / Highlands and Jackson & Macon County. Contact Cory for the most up-to-date inventory.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cashiers & Highlands Real Estate
What makes Cashiers and Highlands real estate unique?
Cashiers and Highlands sit on a mountain plateau at elevations above 3,500 feet, creating a distinctly cooler climate than surrounding areas. The area features a mix of gated communities, estate properties, mountain cottages, and undeveloped land. Many properties offer long-range mountain views or waterfall access. The market includes both year-round residences and seasonal properties.
What is the price range for homes in Cashiers and Highlands?
The Cashiers-Highlands market spans a wide range. Entry-level homes and condos may start in the $300,000s, while estate properties in gated communities like Mountaintop, Wade Hampton, or Chattooga Club can exceed several million dollars. Vacant land ranges from under $100,000 for smaller lots to over $1 million for premium sites. Contact Cory Coleman for current inventory in your price range.
What are gated communities in Cashiers and Highlands?
The area has numerous gated and planned communities, each with its own amenities, architectural guidelines, and HOA fees. These communities may include golf courses, clubhouses, hiking trails, and lakes. Buyers should carefully review HOA covenants, fees, and restrictions before purchasing. Cory can provide details on specific communities that match your needs.
How is the climate in Cashiers and Highlands?
The high elevation creates a temperate climate with average summer highs in the mid-70s°F and significant rainfall — Highlands is one of the wettest places in the eastern US, receiving over 80 inches of precipitation annually. Winters bring occasional snow and temperatures that can drop below freezing. The climate supports lush forests and numerous waterfalls in the area.
What waterfalls are near Cashiers and Highlands?
The Cashiers-Highlands plateau is known for its concentration of waterfalls. Notable falls include Whitewater Falls (one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rockies at 411 feet), Dry Falls (you can walk behind it), Bridal Veil Falls, Cullasaja Falls, and Silver Run Falls. Many of these are accessible via short hikes from roadside parking areas.
What county are Cashiers and Highlands in?
Cashiers is in Jackson County and Highlands is in Macon County — the two communities straddle the county line along US Highway 64. Property tax rates differ between the two counties. Jackson County's rate is approximately $0.34 per $100 of assessed value, while Macon County's rate is approximately $0.32 per $100. Properties within the Town of Highlands pay an additional municipal tax.
Ready to Explore Cashiers / Highlands?
Whether you're buying, selling, or just exploring — Cory knows Cashiers / Highlands inside and out.
Call (828) 506-6413