McDowell County, NC · Curated MLS Search

Homes for Sale in McDowell County, NC

An editorially curated view of every active homes for sale listing in McDowell County, NC. Updated in real time from the local MLS, presented without the noise.

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About Homes for Sale in McDowell County, NC

McDowell County sits where the mountains start to take over. Get close to the ridgelines and you feel it. The land does the talking here. Blue Ridge behind nearly every view, and Lake James pulling folks toward the water once the weather warms.

Life runs slower out here. Marion holds the county together with its downtown and the places you go for everyday errands, and past that it goes rural fast. Working farms. Wooded acreage. Modest homes where people gave up square footage to get elbow room and a view that runs for miles.

Why Buy Homes for Sale in McDowell County, NC?

Buyers come here for space and the outdoors without the price tag that usually comes attached. The Parkway sits close, the lake closer, and there are miles of trails on top of that. You get a slower pace and neighbors who know you. And the land is still within reach, which is more than you can say for a lot of places. For most buyers, that trade is an easy call.

Ready to find your ideal homes for sale in McDowell County? Contact Jon Tharp Homes today at (828) 347-9055 to schedule a showing or start your personalized home search.

McDowell County Market Snapshot

Live MLS data — McDowell County

McDowell County
inventory
Active Listings
728
Sold (Past 6 Mo.)
332
Under Contract
16
pricing
Avg. List Price
$388,190
Cost / Sq. Ft.
$319
typical home
Living Area
2,026 ft²
Avg. Beds
3.1
Avg. Baths
2.6
Days on Market
269

Homes for Sale in McDowell County, NC: Housing Market Data

Data as of (MLS snapshot; listings below update live)

As of October 20, 2026, Jon Tharp Homes' review of MLS data shows 447 McDowell County homes for sale priced at $100,000 or more, out of 728 active listings across every property type. Asking prices had a median of $399,000, about $262 per square foot, for a median of 1,740 square feet. The middle half of the listings fell between $225,000 and $699,000. The most notable figure is time on market: the median listing had been up for 115 days. When homes sit that long, buyers usually have room to negotiate on price, and sellers should plan for a longer wait. Listings were most concentrated in Grandview Peaks, Gateway Mountain and Creston.

McDowell County, NC homes for sale, October 20, 2026
MeasureValue
Active listings447
All active listings in McDowell County, every property type728
Median list price$399,000
Middle half of list prices$225,000 to $699,000
Median price per square foot$262
Median square feet1,740
Median days on market115

McDowell County subdivisions with the most active homes for sale

  • Grandview Peaks: 22 active
  • Gateway Mountain: 18 active
  • Creston: 12 active

Homes for Sale in other areas

Market questions

How many McDowell County homes are for sale?

As of October 20, 2026, there were 447 McDowell County homes for sale priced at $100,000 or more, out of 728 active listings across every property type, based on Jon Tharp Homes' review of MLS data.

What do McDowell County homes typically list for?

The median list price of McDowell County homes was $399,000 as of October 20, 2026.

What is the typical price range for McDowell County homes?

The middle half of active listings for McDowell County homes was priced between $225,000 and $699,000.

How much do McDowell County homes cost per square foot?

The median price per square foot for McDowell County homes was $262, for a median of 1,740 square feet.

How long have McDowell County homes been on the market?

The median listing for McDowell County homes had been on the market 115 days as of October 20, 2026.

How do McDowell County homes stack up against other areas?

As of October 20, 2026, there were 447 McDowell County homes for sale priced at $100,000 or more. In the same search, Buncombe County had 2,990 homes for sale at a median list price of $549,000, Asheville had 1,561 homes for sale at a median list price of $550,000 and Henderson County had 1,365 homes for sale at a median list price of $489,000.

Listing data courtesy of Carolina Multiple Listing Services, Inc.

Next Steps in McDowell County, NC

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Reply from Jon Tharp Homes

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Homes for Sale in McDowell County, NC

90 Rolling Hills Drive, Marion
$260,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 4441239 MLS

90 Rolling Hills Drive, Marion
76 Sparrow Drive, Nebo
$355,000
4441622 MLS
Land at 76 SPARROW DR, NEBO, NC 28761, with a lot size of 0.91 acres. This property is identified as land and is located on Sparrow Drive in Nebo, North Carolina. The listed acreage is 0.91 acres, and the property address is 76 SPARROW DR. The location is identified by the Nebo mailing address and ZIP code 28761. The property consists of a 0.91-acre lot at the stated address. The property type is land, and its location is recorded as 76 SPARROW DR in Nebo, NC 28761, with the lot size listed in acres.

76 Sparrow Drive, Nebo
11613 Montford Cove Road, Marion
$750,000
2 Baths ⋅ 4441012 MLS
Available immediately. Lease, purchase or lease purchase. Ideal two building facility for equipment, motorsports business, or variety of businesses. Lots of covered storage detached and adjoining building, retail showroom and repair shop Well traveled road, partially fenced. Building 1: newer 3200 sq ft building inside finished , 16' ceilings with 200 amp power and outlets throughout , concrete floor, 2- 10x 8 doors and 2- 12x 14 roll up doors with openers 360 sq ft covered entry display area (no bathroom) Building 2: 4400 sq ft building showroom, 14' ceilings, heated repair shop with 2 post lift, bathroom Office/parts area heated and cooled w 200 amp power with 220v

11613 Montford Cove Road, Marion
376 Reservoir Road, Marion
$189,000
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 4434477 MLS
Two bedrooms and one full bath on a single level. Hardwood floors run through the living room and both bedrooms, and the board ceilings give every room a little old house character. White cabinets wrap around the kitchen, with good counter space and a double window over the sink. One bedroom has a large walk in closet lined with shelving. Off the back, an enclosed porch full of windows makes a handy spot for storage or a mudroom. The home was built around 1945 and sits on roughly two tenths of an acre on Reservoir Road in Marion. It has city water and a septic system the seller reports is permitted for two bedrooms. Everything runs on electric, with two ductless mini split units for heating and cooling. Outside, there’s aluminum siding under a new architectural shingle roof, a concrete driveway, a chain link fenced area out back, and a storage shed for the mower and yard tools. This one is ready for its next owner to put some work in. The windows are due for replacement, and the seller reports water damage to the front bedroom floor and a spot in the back bedroom ceiling that needs replacing. Flood zone X. No HOA and no recorded restrictions, per the seller. Just a few minutes from downtown Marion.

376 Reservoir Road, Marion
154 Star Drive Unit #75, Marion
$414,900
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 4441553 MLS
Experience mountain living at its finest in this beautiful new construction home, perfectly situated along a scenic mountain ridge with stunning views from both the front and back. Featuring an open-concept living and kitchen area with soaring cathedral ceilings and nine-foot ceilings on the main level, this home offers both comfort and style. This 3 bedroom 2.5 bath home offers plenty of room with an extra bonus multipurpose room in the lower level! The kitchen boasts quartz countertops, a farmhouse sink, and soft-close cabinetry. The spacious primary suite features a beautifully tiled shower with built-in bench, double-sink vanity, and walk-in closet. Plenty of storage with a 26x26 two car garage oversized laundry room! Enjoy the peaceful mountain surroundings from two covered porches, one welcoming you at the front entrance and another overlooking the scenic backyard. Complete with durable Hardie board siding and luxury vinyl plank flooring, this home offers modern finishes surrounded by the natural beauty of the mountains. Don't miss your opportunity to own this stunning new construction mountain home—schedule your private showing today and experience the views for yourself!

154 Star Drive Unit #75, Marion
192 Woodruff Lane, Black Mountain
$1,700,000
5 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 4441436 MLS
HIGH ABOVE IT ALL — A PRIVATE, SELF-SUFFICIENT MOUNTAIN ESTATE Welcome to 192 Woodruff Lane, set behind a coded gate in the Creston community of Black Mountain. This secluded estate offers room to breathe, privacy, and the independence that comes with being self-reliant. The property includes a main residence and a separate three-bedroom guest cottage, ideal for extended family, guests, or additional living space. A whole-home backup generator, private well, and propane infrastructure support an off-the-grid-ready lifestyle. The main residence offers 3,000 square feet, 2 bedrooms, 2 additional bonus rooms, and 2 baths on [4.11] acres, with expansive windows overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains, an open floor plan, coffered ceilings, a stone fireplace, and a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, a JennAir gas range, commercial hood, and large center island. Whether you want a luxury mountain getaway, a multi-generational family compound, or a prepper-friendly property, this estate combines comfort, seclusion, and self-sufficiency. Just 24 miles from Asheville, it feels worlds away while keeping modern conveniences within reach. Creston also offers miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, and protected conservation land. OWNER FINANCING AVAILABLE. SELLER WILL CONSIDER ALL OFFERS. When the world gets hectic, wouldn’t it be nice to have a place to retreat to?

192 Woodruff Lane, Black Mountain
12184 Montford Cove Road, Marion
$139,000
4440891 MLS
10.77 unrestricted acres featuring a pond, stream, and off-grid cabin from Jamaica Cottage Shop, in a scenic foothills setting. This versatile property offers an abundance of level to gently sloping land ideal for farming, recreation, hunting, building a family compound, or creating your private retreat. Enjoy fishing in your own pond stocked with your favorite fish and take in close range mountain views from multiple locations throughout the property. The pond dam experienced minor erosion during Hurricane Helene but remains largely intact and can be repaired to restore the pond to its former level, as shown in the final listing photos. A walking trail marked with orange tape begins beyond the pond and leads through the forest to a large area of open, level to gently sloping terrain. A recorded survey is on file with the county. Conveniently located in the foothills on the edge of the mountains, this unique property is just 20 minutes from Lake Lure, 15 minutes from Marion, and only 5 minutes from a local general store. Rarely do properties offer this combination of usable land, water features, privacy, mountain views, and unrestricted potential at a great price. Schedule your showing today.

12184 Montford Cove Road, Marion
1690 Saylor Way, Nebo
$2,200,000
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 4440573 MLS
Experience the lakefront lifestyle in this beautiful waterfront home on Lake James, masterfully designed to capture breathtaking views from nearly every room. The main level features a bright, open-concept layout centered around a gourmet chef’s kitchen featuring a premium Wolf induction cooktop, Bosch double ovens, and a large island. There is an open dining area. The adjacent living room is anchored by a cozy gas stove, all framed by expansive windows looking out to the lake. Tucked away on the main floor is the primary suite, boasting private views and an en suite bath equipped with an oversized multi-jetted shower and a deep soaking tub. A dedicated main-floor laundry room and half bath provide convenience. Upstairs, the home transitions into an guest retreat, featuring a flexible loft space with custom built-in beds, two separate bedrooms, and a full hall bath. The fully finished walkout lower level serves as the entertainment hub, offering a sprawling family game room paired with a convenient kitchen area with full-size refrigerator, a full bathroom, and a fourth bedroom outfitted with bunks. Designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living, the property has expansive upper and lower covered decks overlooking a gentle, gradual path that leads straight down to the shoreline. Plenty of room for dining and relaxing as well as a hot tub for watching the stars at night. At the water’s edge sits the crown jewel: a premium double-decker aluminum dock complete with double boat slip and a massive upper party deck perfect for getting some sun or sunset views. An outdoor fire pit provides the perfect setting for evenings. The exterior is complete with a lower garage for your cars, water toys and additional storage, a one-car carport, and concrete and asphalt driveway offering ample parking for family and guests. Located in the quiet, gated community, The Enclave is located on the northeast side of the lake, in close proximity to Pisgah National Forest as well as the Fonta Flora State Trail for hiking and biking. In just minutes, you can grab a beer at the Whippoorwill Farm Brewery or head to Morganton in 30 minutes for additional entertainment, restaurants, and shopping. This home is offered turnkey and can be used in a short-term rental program.

1690 Saylor Way, Nebo
438 Walker Road, Old Fort
$575,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4440714 MLS
Private Mountain Retreat on 11.62 Acres in Old Fort! Discover the perfect blend of modern comfort, privacy, and country living on this beautiful 11.62-acre property in Old Fort. Featuring a 2023-built main home with 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and an additional bonus room that could serve as a third bedroom, office, or flex space, this property offers versatility and room to make it your own. Beyond the main home, the property features a barn, a separate cabin, a dedicated workout area, and an older storage area, providing endless possibilities for hobbies, storage, guests, or additional workspace. With multiple structures and acreage to explore, this unique property offers plenty of room to enjoy, create, and make it your own. Whether you're looking for a homestead, a place for animals, room for recreational activities, a private fitness space, or simply a little more room to spread out, this Old Fort property offers a rare combination of modern living and country charm. Come experience all that 11.62 acres has to offer!

438 Walker Road, Old Fort
1307 Golf Course Road, Old Fort
$575,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4441138 MLS
Enjoy the best of Western North Carolina living in this beautiful 3-bedroom, 3-bath site-built home offering 2,332 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space and breathtaking long-range mountain views! The inviting interior features hardwood floors throughout, an updated kitchen, and a cozy gas fireplace in the family room, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The main-level primary bedroom offers the convenience of an ensuite bath, while two additional bedrooms and a versatile bonus room provide flexibility for a home office, hobby space, or additional living needs. Step outside to enjoy the fenced backyard, perfect for relaxing, entertaining, or enjoying the mountain setting. The attached two-car garage, along with a separate golf cart garage, provides plenty of room for vehicles, storage, and outdoor gear. Ideally located just minutes from downtown Old Fort, this home offers easy access to the charm of a growing mountain community known as a gateway to Pisgah National Forest and its miles of hiking and biking trails. Enjoy Old Fort's walkable downtown, emerging craft beverage scene, and regional arts community, all while being approximately 12 miles from Black Mountain and 33 miles from Morganton. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, small-town charm, or convenient access to neighboring communities, this home offers an exceptional opportunity to enjoy the mountain lifestyle!

1307 Golf Course Road, Old Fort
15 Trillium Trail, Nebo
$620,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 4441150 MLS
Your Mountain Retreat Awaits at Grandview Peaks! Welcome to your own private mountain getaway in the beautiful community of Grandview Peaks in Nebo, NC! Nestled on 1.49 wooded acres, this fully furnished 3-bedroom, 2-bath cabin offers approximately 1933 square feet of warm, rustic charm and peaceful mountain living. Enjoy the inviting open feel of the cabin, complete with spacious loft, comfortable living spaces, and front and back decks perfect for relaxing, entertaining, or simply enjoying the tranquil surroundings. A half-court basketball area adds a fun recreational touch, while the gravel driveway provides parking for multiple vehicles.Grandview Peaks offers an exceptional mountain lifestyle with a private community lake, swimming, fishing, canoeing and scenic hiking trails. Whether you are looking for a full-time residence, a second home, a family vacation retreat, or an investment opportunity, this property offers a wonderful combination privacy, recreation and convenience. Experience the beauty of Western North Carolina and discover the mountain lifestyle you've been dreaming of. Buyers and agent verify square footage. Vacation rental potential, short term and long term. More images coming soon!

15 Trillium Trail, Nebo
80 Arrowhead Trail, Marion
$230,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 4436724 MLS
BRAND NEW ROOF! Welcome to 80 Arrowhead Trail in Marion, NC! Situated on approximately 1.18 unrestricted acres, this well-maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath home offers 1,445 square feet of single-level living with plenty of room to enjoy both indoors and out. One of the home's newest improvements is a brand-new architectural shingle roof installed in November 2026, providing added value and peace of mind for the next owner! Inside, you'll find an open living and dining area featuring attractive vinyl plank flooring, a wood-burning fireplace, and plenty of natural light. The kitchen offers ample cabinet space and a functional layout, while all three bedrooms provide comfortable accommodations. A convenient main-level laundry area adds to the home's practicality. Step outside and enjoy the covered front porch overlooking the property. The acreage offers plenty of usable outdoor space, along with a storage building for additional storage or hobbies. With no HOA and no deed restrictions, you'll have the freedom to make this property your own. Additional features include a private well, installed septic system, and paved, publicly maintained road access. Offering a great combination of comfortable living, usable acreage, and a convenient Marion location, this property is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the space and flexibility you've been looking for. Schedule your showing today!

80 Arrowhead Trail, Marion
00 Mud Cut Loop, Marion
$109,000
4440036 MLS
Discover the possibilities with this 4.41 acre unrestricted property, located approximately 15 minutes from Marion and just over 5 minutes from I-40. Most of the acreage is open, mowed field, with a small wooded area. An existing access road leads down into the field, making it convenient to reach and enjoy the property. Whether you envision your dream home, a spacious shop, or exploring the potential for a small subdivision, this tract offers room for your plans. Recent soil testing for a septic system and a completed survey provide a helpful starting point. Open acreage, convenient access, and no deed restrictions make this a property worth exploring!

00 Mud Cut Loop, Marion
235D S Garden Street Unit #D, Marion
$235,000
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 4440010 MLS
Enjoy easy living and small-town charm in this conveniently located 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo! Situated within the city limits, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and accessibility. In addition to the living room/dining areas you also have a sunroom for your enjoyment. Also, enjoy nearby sidewalks for a pleasant stroll, with shopping, restaurants, and the hospital just minutes away. Convenient access to I-40 makes commuting and traveling a breeze. When it's time to unwind, beautiful Lake James is just a short drive away, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and enjoying the outdoors. Whether you're looking for a full-time residence, a low-maintenance lifestyle, or a convenient place to call home, this condo offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy all that the area has to offer!

235D S Garden Street Unit #D, Marion
V/L Kohen Trail Unit #9, Nebo
$122,000
4439289 MLS
Beautiful Unrestricted Mountain Property in Dysartsville! Don't miss your chance to own this highly desirable 10+ acre tract with breathtaking mountain views and endless possibilities! A road has already been cut in, and a cleared homesite is ready for your vision. With no restrictions, you can explore the possibilities for your dream home, mini-farm, or investment opportunity. Power runs along the main road for added convenience. Located in the Dysartsville area and close to the fire department, this property offers the perfect combination of cheaper insurance, privacy, beautiful scenery, and abundant wildlife. Opportunities like this don't come along every day! Call today to schedule your showing and start planning the possibilities before this exceptional piece of mountain property is gone!

V/L Kohen Trail Unit #9, Nebo
V/L Second Street, Marion
$129,000
4439506 MLS
Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a versatile tract of unrestricted land just outside the city limits of Marion, NC! Featuring beautiful long-range mountain views from both sides of the property, this unique tract offers an incredible combination of privacy, convenience, and flexibility. Whether you're looking to build your dream mountain home, bring in a manufactured home, set up a tiny home, create a family compound, or explore investment and development opportunities, this property offers plenty of possibilities. With several potential building sites and breathtaking mountain views, there's room to bring your vision to life. Adding to its unique appeal, this property was once part of the historic recreation grounds for the Marion Manufacturing plant, giving it a special connection to the area's rich history. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the Western North Carolina foothills while being conveniently located just minutes from downtown Marion, Interstate 40, and beautiful Lake James. You'll have easy access to shopping, dining, outdoor recreation, and everything this growing area has to offer—all without being inside the city limits. Whether you're searching for a private mountain retreat, a place for multiple homes, or your next investment opportunity, this property deserves a closer look. City water and sewer is nearby and could possibly be connected. Buyer and or Buyers agent to verify. Bring your vision and explore the possibilities! Call the listing agent today with questions or to schedule a private showing.

V/L Second Street, Marion
25 Garland Drive, Marion
$239,900
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 4440032 MLS
COMING SOON! Check back for additional photos and virtual tour. Make your appointment now for the live show date 11/23/2026. Near historic downtown Marion with all the conveniences but outside city limits, this well-maintained home offers comfortable living with numerous updates already completed. The exterior features low-maintenance vinyl siding, a durable metal roof, newer windows, updated exterior doors, a welcoming covered front porch, and a spacious back deck perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The nice, level yard provides plenty of usable outdoor space for gardening, recreation, pets, or simply enjoying mornings and evenings Inside, you'll find some newer flooring and a refreshed kitchen featuring a butcher block island that adds warmth, character, and additional workspace. The home also offers several bathroom updates, including improvements to the primary suite with a new shower and sink. A versatile bonus room provides extra space for a home office, hobby room, den, or whatever best fits your needs. Situated on a permanent foundation, this home combines practical updates, inviting indoor spaces, and wonderful outdoor living areas.

25 Garland Drive, Marion
611 Bat Cave Road, Old Fort
$275,000
4439700 MLS
Rare opportunity to invest in the growing town of Old Fort. This lot is 0.1 miles from I-40, located off exit 73 on Bat Cave Road. The property borders a stretch of the Catawba River and is just one minute from Hillman Beer, 7 minutes from Catawba Falls, and 30 minutes to Asheville. City water and sewer are available along Bat Cave Road. Electric hook up is also available. This lot offers excellent potential for various business ventures. Bring your buyers, your vision, and your offers today!

611 Bat Cave Road, Old Fort
611 Bat Cave Road, Old Fort
$275,000
4439693 MLS
Rare opportunity to invest in the growing town of Old Fort. This lot is 0.1 miles from I-40, located off exit 73 on Bat Cave Road. The property borders a stretch of the Catawba River and is just one minute from Hillman Beer, 7 minutes from Catawba Falls, and 30 minutes to Asheville. City water and sewer are available along Bat Cave Road. Electric hook up is also available. This lot offers excellent potential for various business ventures. Bring your buyers, your vision, and your offers today!

611 Bat Cave Road, Old Fort
260 Hunnicut Mountain Road, Marion
$529,000
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 4439348 MLS
MOUNTAIN LIVING AT ITS FINEST! Welcome to 260 Hunnicut Mountain Road in Linville Falls Mountain Club, where rustic mountain charm meets comfortable, easy living! This beautiful 2-bedroom, 2-bath mountain home features an inviting open floor plan with soaring ceilings, a spacious great room with a stunning wood-burning fireplace, and a dining area perfect for gathering with family and friends. But the real showstopper is the incredible covered porch with a beautiful stone fireplace! Whether you're enjoying your morning coffee, entertaining guests, or relaxing by the fire on a cool mountain evening, this outdoor living space is sure to become your favorite place to unwind. Both fireplaces are wood-burning with the option to convert to propane, offering flexibility and convenience. Located in the beautiful mountain community of Linville Falls Mountain Club, with its own community water and sewer systems, this home offers the perfect setting for a full-time residence, second home, or vacation rental investment, as short-term rentals are permitted! The community borders North Cove Leisure Club, home to disc golf, Birdie's Cafe and Bar, and the beautiful Catawba River, adding even more opportunities for recreation and relaxation nearby. Conveniently located to Marion, Linville Falls, Linville Gorge, Linville Caverns, Grandfather Mountain, Banner Elk, and some of Western North Carolina's most treasured attractions. Come experience mountain living the way it was meant to be — peaceful mornings, cozy fires, outdoor adventures, and the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains!

260 Hunnicut Mountain Road, Marion
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