How to Live in the Smokey Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains are a beautiful and scenic place to live. However, you need to be prepared for the things that can go wrong there, such as ice storms, lack of employment and local, sometimes, hostile wildlife. Once you are aware of the potential pitfalls, you can decide if living in the Great Smokies is the right choice for you. Two well populated counties in the Great Smokies, which we will look at in this article, are Sevier County in Tennessee and Cherokee County in North Carolina

Decide if Great Smokey Mountain employment opportunities are right for you. Research what is available.

Realize that you may find work at a hotel, for the government, a supermarket or for one of the area's many small businesses. Other employment opportunities relate to the health and education sectors. Know that the average salary in Sevier County is $22,359 and $23,384 in Cherokee County.

Understand that working in the mountains may entail seasonal or part time employment.

Figure out which type of housing is right for you. The median price of housing in both Sevier and Cherokee Counties is around $140,000. Prices vary depending on if you are renting, living in a mobile home, a cabin or a block house.

Make sure you are aware of what type of weather is typical for the Smoky Mountains. On average, during the winter, highs are around 36 degrees F. Summer weather normally brings high temperatures, which average 64 degrees F. Fall and spring highs range between 48 and 52 degrees F.

During the colder months, snow and rain are likely, as is the occasional ice storm. Afternoon storms form during the hottest time of the year. Many days throughout the year see abundant sunshine.

Plan ahead for safe mountain driving. Drive at the speed limit and slow down if you’re on the road while it rains or snows. The Smokies see plenty of precipitation each year making cautious driving imperative. Try to stay off the highways and back roads unless absolutely necessary during ice storms.

Hiking a mountain trail, watching the leaves change colors in fall and skiing down a snowy slope are a few of the many benefits to living in the Great Smokies. Nature is your playground in these mountains.

See different wildlife, such as black bear, coyote, elk, raccoon, ravens, fish and wild turkeys. Avoid wildlife problems by keeping pet food and trash inside if you are planning to live in a rural area like the Smoky Mountains.

Visit the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Cataloochee Valley and Appalachian National Scenic Trail. Within each of these locals are a variety of scenic wonders and historic points of interests to see. The Folkmoot USA International Folk Festival is held in the western mountains of North Carolina and runs for two weeks at the end of July.

This is just a short synopsis of what you would experience while living in the Smoky Mountains.