Montford
I'll be honest - I haven't lived in Montford, but I've shown homes here and gotten to know the neighborhood. It's absolutely gorgeous with those Victorian houses and tree-lined streets. Really feels like stepping back in time.
Average 1BR
$1,600-$2,800
Walk Score
65 - Somewhat Walkable
Community Feel
Established & Friendly
Architecture
Historic Victorian
My Take on Montford
Every time I show houses in Montford, I'm blown away by the architecture. These Victorian homes are incredible - wraparound porches, original hardwood floors, details you just don't see in newer construction. The whole neighborhood is on the National Register of Historic Places, which means it's protected and preserved.
From what I've seen working with clients here, it's a really established community. Lots of long-time residents who know each other, take pride in their homes, and look out for their neighbors. I've noticed plenty of Pride flags on those beautiful porches, and everyone I've met here has been welcoming.
It's definitely quieter than West Asheville or South Slope. More residential, less commercial. You can walk to downtown in about 15 minutes through these gorgeous tree-lined streets. It reminds me of some of the historic neighborhoods in Boston, actually - that same sense of history and community.
What I Love About Montford
Stunning Architecture
The houses here are amazing. I literally stop and stare sometimes when I'm showing properties. Original hardwood floors, craftsman details, porches that make you want to sit with a book all afternoon.
Strong Community
There's a real sense of community here. Long-time residents who know each other, neighborhood events, people who take pride in where they live. I've met several gay couples who've been here for decades.
Walkable to Downtown
It's a pleasant 15-minute walk to downtown through tree-lined streets. Close enough to access everything, far enough to escape the tourist chaos. Best of both worlds.
Peaceful Living
It's genuinely quiet here. No late-night brewery noise, just residential streets. Perfect if you want to be close to downtown but need actual peace and quiet. Great for morning runs too.
Things to Consider
Higher Price Point
Montford is one of Asheville's pricier neighborhoods. These historic homes command premium prices - typically $600k+ to buy, $2,000+ to rent. Plus, older homes mean higher utility costs, especially heating in winter.
Historic Home Maintenance
These beautiful old homes require upkeep. Historic preservation standards mean you can't just make any changes. From experience showing these homes, I've seen original windows that need work, older systems that need updating. It's part of the charm, but something to budget for.
Limited Walkable Amenities
Unlike West Asheville or South Slope, Montford is primarily residential. There's Vortex Doughnuts (which is fantastic), but for most coffee shops, restaurants, or groceries, you'll need to head to downtown or other neighborhoods.
More Established Demographics
The neighborhood tends toward established homeowners rather than renters or younger folks just starting out. It's less diverse than some other Asheville neighborhoods, both economically and demographically.
What's in the Neighborhood
The Essentials
- Vortex Doughnuts - The only food option, thankfully good
- Montford Park - Nice for dog walks and summer Shakespeare
- The Montford Community Center - Yoga, meetings, events
- Beautiful walking streets - Perfect for morning runs or evening strolls
The Real Attractions
- Historic house tours (if you're into that)
- The most Instagram-worthy streets in town
- Actual front porches people actually use
- Gardens that shame your plant parent attempts
- Architecture nerds taking photos of your house
The Social Scene
- Dinner parties (bring good wine)
- Book clubs (actually read the book)
- Garden tours (prepare to feel inadequate)
- Neighborhood association drama
- Dog walking social hour
Finding a Place in Montford
From my real estate experience, Montford housing tends to be on the higher end. Most rentals are carriage houses, apartments in subdivided Victorians, or occasionally whole houses. The charm and location command premium prices.
What exists:
- Carriage house apartments ($1,600-2,200)
- Victorian subdivisions ($1,800-2,800)
- Whole house rentals ($2,500-4,000)
- Rooms in shared houses ($800-1,200)
- Buying? Start at $500k for a fixer-upper
The reality check:
- Everything's old (charming but drafty)
- Parking can be weird (tandem driveways)
- You're paying for location and charm
- Landlords are often longtime locals
- Good credit and references essential
Pro tip: The Montford neighborhood has an active community listserv where rentals sometimes get posted before they hit the market. Also, driving or walking through the neighborhood can reveal "For Rent" signs not posted online.
Montford's History & Community
From what I've learned showing homes here and talking with long-time residents, Montford has been welcoming to LGBTQ+ folks for decades. Many gay couples were among the early adopters who bought and restored these Victorians when they were more affordable.
There's still a strong LGBTQ+ presence here - established couples who've been in the neighborhood for years, beautiful homes with Pride flags, a real sense of community. It feels comfortable and accepting, just like the rest of Asheville.
The gardens here are incredible, by the way. Some of my clients have these amazing landscaping setups that make me want to up my plant game. It's clear people really take pride in their homes and the neighborhood.
Montford Might Be Right If You...
✓ Love historic architecture and charm
✓ Want a quiet, residential feel
✓ Are established and settling down
✓ Appreciate craftsman details
Consider Other Neighborhoods If You...
✗ Need more affordable options
✗ Want walkable restaurants/nightlife
✗ Prefer a more diverse, younger vibe
✗ Want newer, low-maintenance housing
My Honest Take on Montford
Montford is absolutely beautiful. Every time I show homes there, I'm impressed by the architecture, the tree-lined streets, the sense of history. It's one of those neighborhoods that makes Asheville special - you can feel the history and community pride.
It's definitely quieter than other neighborhoods I've lived in. Less walkable amenities than West Asheville, less party vibe than South Slope. But that's exactly what some people are looking for - a peaceful, residential neighborhood that's still close to everything.
If you value historic charm, quiet streets, and established community over nightlife and walkable restaurants, Montford could be perfect. The LGBTQ+ folks I've met here seem really happy - it's that comfortable, settled feeling where you can just be yourself in your beautiful historic home.