8 Things to Know Before Moving to Tryon, NC

With a motto like “The Friendliest Town in the South,” what could possibly go wrong? About 1,603 people call Tryon, North Carolina home. 

Over the past century, Tryon has risen to prominence as a premier equestrian center in the South. People are rediscovering the town for all the positive things it has to offer: excellent equestrian events and facilities, unique residential options, ample possibilities for outdoor adventure, and a pleasant temperature throughout the year.

Let’s check out eight things to know before moving to Tryon, NC!

1. The city has a rich horse-riding history

In 1917, Northerners started coming to Tryon to spend the mild Southern winter at the Pine Crest Inn, beginning the city’s long and illustrious equestrian tradition. The Tryon Horse Show debuted in 1929 (the third oldest of such events in the nation).  The United States equestrian team used Tryon as its Olympic preparation base in 1956.

Tryon continues to provide top-notch horse medical care, boarding, and training, in addition to more than a hundred miles of private trails. The Foothills Equestrian Nature Center (FENCE) is a recreational and learning facility spread out across 390 acres that features activities like equestrian competition, hiking, and nature studies. Five miles of paths are available for walking or biking, and there is also a nature pond with a boardwalk for viewing wildlife. There are three illuminated show rings, seats for spectators, and stalls for over 200 horses at the facility.

The Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC), which opened in 2014, marked the beginning of a new era for the community of Tryon, North Carolina, where the history of the horse and the American West meet. An extreme level of dedication to equestrian pursuits is shown by this ultra-modern, 1,450-acre facility costing $100 million. In this setting, spectators of any background can marvel at the extraordinary animals that make up the sport. There are ten riding arenas at TIEC, in addition to more than a thousand permanent stalls, covered viewing areas, eateries, kid-friendly attractions, upscale shopping, and more. The arena has become a destination for spectators and competitors due to its size and scope. So much so that the 2018 World Equine Games was held at TIEC.

2. Go shopping at Trade Street or check out Nina Simone Plaza

Tryon is not only a horse town; it has much more to offer. The area’s foothills have a wealth of culture, heritage, arts and crafts, unique cuisine styles, and large natural regions.

Trade Street, Tryon’s main drag, is an attraction in and of itself. The area is small enough that you can reach the many restaurants, vintage shops, bookstores, and galleries on foot. When it comes to arts and entertainment, Tryon Fine Arts Center is where it’s at. 

You should definitely check out Nina Simone Plaza, which was built in her honor across the street. In 1933, Nina Simone was born in Tryon; later, she became famous for her “Black Classical Music,” a genre-bending mashup of gospel, classical, jazz, folk, and traditional ballads that influenced the Civil Rights Movement.

3. Most major cities are only a few miles away

Tryon’s location makes it an easy day trip from several of Southeast’s most popular cities. 

Less than an hour’s drive takes you to the South Carolina major areas of Greenville and Spartanburg, as well as the North Carolina cities of Asheville (45 miles) and Hendersonville (23 miles). Getting to Charlotte, Columbia, and Atlanta only takes a few hours.

4. It rains 55 inches a year in Tyron

Tryon enjoys a temperate climate with pleasant summers and moderate winters. The lows in January average around 40 degrees, while highs in July average in the high 80s. Summers are mild and sunny throughout the day but might get a little muggy at night due to the adjacent mountains. Tryon’s pleasant climate makes it a great place to go hiking, bicycling, camping, and fishing any time of year.

On average, Tryon receives 55 inches of rainfall each year. The annual average rainfall in the United States is 38 inches. The annual snowfall average in the city is a mere 4 inches, while the United States is 28 inches.

5. Lower-than-average crime rates

Tryon has a much lower violent crime rate than the rest of the country at 7.8, according to recent data. The national violent crime rate is 22.7. The property crime rate in Tryon, at 32.7, is also below the national average of 35.4, which is another positive indicator of the city’s safety. 

This makes Tryon a great area to settle down with your loved ones, as it is both secure and tranquil.

6. There’s a strong sense of community

The sense of community in a place is highly valued by many individuals, yet it can be difficult to assess before relocating there.

Tryon never fails to amaze us with his performance in this area. Numerous volunteer, civic, and recreational groups exist in town for anyone interested in giving back to the community. There is a strong sense of community among the locals, and they are always willing to provide a hand to those in need.

7. Most people work in the equestrian industry

With a projected 37.34% increase in job openings over the next three years, Tryon is becoming an increasingly appealing job location. The unemployment rate of 4.2% is slightly higher than the national average of 3.9%.

There are a lot of small businesses in town, like Hometown Hardware and Bicycle Shop, which has everything a handyman could want, and Summit Coffee Company, which has some of the best coffee in the region. 

Of course, the equestrian industry is the city’s major employer. Residents also commute to nearby Asheville or Hendersonville for work. 

8. A cost of living index of 91.3

Tryon has a cost of living index of 91.3, 8.7% less than the national average. The median home price is $371,153, much less than the national average of $430,000.

A single person in Tryon can expect to spend $34,616 a year, which is less than the national average of $38,433, which includes housing, food, child care, transportation, health care, taxes, and other needs.

In Conclusion

Tryon, North Carolina, is an idyllic location blending a rich equestrian heritage with a vibrant community spirit. From its historic horse riding legacy to the allure of Nina Simone Plaza, the town offers a compelling mix of cultural treasures. Its strategic proximity to major cities, coupled with a temperate climate and lower-than-average crime rates, ensures a comfortable and secure lifestyle. 

With a thriving equestrian industry and a cost of living below the national average, Tryon stands as an inviting haven for those seeking a balance between heritage, community, and modernity.