Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lenoir boasts a rich furniture-making heritage that dates back generations. Known as "Where the High Country Begins," this historic city features a charming downtown area with restored buildings and a mountain backdrop highlighted by Hibriten Mountain to the east. With average rents ranging from $728 for one-bedroom apartments to $1,224 for two-bedroom homes, Lenoir offers more affordable housing options compared to North Carolina's larger metropolitan areas.

Rental options in Lenoir include townhomes, single-family homes with yards, and smaller apartment communities throughout the city. Neighborhoods like Lower Creek, with its historic homes, and Whitnel, known for its mountain views, provide distinct living experiences across the city's 21 square miles. Downtown Lenoir features the Tucker's Gallery arts district, local boutiques, and the Lenoir Greenway system, which offers 5.3 miles of paths for walking and biking. The Lenoir Aquatic and Fitness Center provides recreational opportunities with its Olympic-size swimming pool and exercise facilities.

Located at the intersection of US Highways 64 and 321, Lenoir offers convenient access to larger cities while maintaining its small-town atmosphere. Boone is just 27 miles north, while Hickory lies 17 miles southeast, making day trips and commuting feasible. While furniture manufacturing was once the economic backbone of Lenoir, the medical and education sectors now lead employment opportunities. Google established a data center in Lenoir, bringing technology jobs to complement the area's traditional industries and wholesale plant nurseries that have employed locals for over 75 years.