COST OF LIVING

Asheville is more expensive than 98% of other North Carolina cities, with rents having risen by 41.7% since 2020, making it the most expensive place to rent in the state. The cost of living for creatives in Asheville presents a growing challenge, fueled by rising housing, transportation, and utility costs. Buncombe County’s living wage in 2022 was calculated at $24.61 per hour, significantly higher than the median earnings of $21.06 for creative occupations in the area. This wage disparity means that most local creatives face difficulty covering basic expenses, forcing many to seek supplemental income, reduce their artistic output, or leave the area altogether. Self-employed and freelance artists are particularly affected, as they often lack access to benefits like affordable healthcare or retirement savings, which further exacerbates their financial instability.

Beyond wages, the availability and affordability of creative workspaces add to the financial strain. Many artists and makers struggle to find affordable studio, rehearsal, or retail spaces, as rising property values and rental rates outpace their earnings. These financial pressures not only hinder creatives’ ability to sustain their livelihoods but also threaten the cultural vitality of the Asheville region. Addressing these cost-of-living challenges is critical to ensuring that Asheville remains a thriving hub for artists and the creative economy. Without meaningful intervention, the community risks losing the very artists that make Asheville a unique and dynamic place.