As more people seek a better work-life balance and prioritize lifestyle factors, the rural areas surrounding Winston-Salem are becoming increasingly attractive places to call home. 

Numerous charming rural towns surround Winston-Salem, perfect for those seeking a slower pace of life, natural beauty, housing affordability, opportunities for self-sufficient living, escape from urban crowds, and a close-knit community. While there are challenges with living in a rural town, many residents find the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

In this five-part series, we’re rolling out the best rural towns near Winston-Salem, NC, by county:

1. Forsyth County
2. Davidson County
3. Davie County
4. Stokes County
5. Yadkin County

Part 1: Charming Rural Towns in Forsyth County, NC

While Forsyth County is primarily urban and suburban, there are rural areas in the northern and western parts of the county, away from the more densely populated urban centers like Winston-Salem. These rural areas offer residents a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle compared to the urban areas of Forsyth County. 

The rural areas of Forsyth County offer natural beauty and close-knit communities that characterize countryside living while still within driving distance of the amenities and employment opportunities of Winston-Salem and other nearby cities. 

The towns in this article have rural atmospheres, but each has unique attributes that attract residents with varying lifestyle preferences. As a lifetime local, I’m giving you the four countryside areas of Forsyth County and the five reasons to love each one. Don’t hesitate to contact me with questions – I’m here to help!

Living in Rural Hall, NC

As the name suggests, Rural Hall is a small town with rural and suburban characteristics known for its agricultural heritage and scenic countryside. 

Top Five Reasons To Live in Rural Hall, NC:

1. Scenic Environment: Rural Hall provides a peaceful and picturesque environment with open spaces, farmland, and a slower pace of life. Residents enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the area.
2. Affordability: Rural Hall has more affordable housing options than nearby urban areas like Winston-Salem. Residents may find larger homes and more land for their money in Rural Hall, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their housing budget.
3. Proximity to Winston-Salem: Rural Hall is just north of Winston-Salem, providing easy access to the amenities, employment opportunities, and cultural attractions. Residents can commute to Winston-Salem for work or entertainment and return to the quieter atmosphere of Rural Hall at the end of the day.
4. Friendly Community: Residents often describe Rural Hall as a friendly and close-knit town. The community hosts events and activities throughout the year for neighbors to come together and socialize.
5. Covington Memorial Park: This 20-acre lakefront development is on the south side of Rural Hall. The park has a lakefront walking trail, shelters with an outdoor stone fireplace, a baseball field, tennis courts, and horseshoe pits.

Living in Bethania, NC

A National Historic Landmark, the town of Bethania is the only known Germanic-type Linear Agriculture village in the South. Living in Bethania, NC, offers a unique experience characterized by its historic charm, rural atmosphere, and close-knit community. 

Top Five Reasons To Live in Bethania, NC:

1. Historic Charm: Bethania is one of the oldest Moravian settlements in North Carolina, founded in 1759. Living in Bethania means being surrounded by well-preserved historic buildings, churches, and landmarks that glimpse the area’s rich heritage. Click here to view a map of Bethania’s self-directed tour map, courtesy of the Visitor Center. 
2. Scenic Countryside: In Bethania, you’ll find open spaces and farmland, perfect for residents who enjoy the peace and tranquility of rural living.
3. Supportive Community: Bethania has a strong sense of community, with residents forming close relationships and actively participating in local events, organizations, and initiatives. Most neighbors know each other by name, and there is a spirit of cooperation and support among residents.
4. Hiking Trails: Bethania’s conservancy-protected lands include four hiking trails through verdant forests and preserved farmlands. 
5. Heritage and Cultural Events: Bethania hosts various events annually, celebrating its Moravian heritage and historical significance, including the Black Walnut Festival. Residents can participate in festivals, craft fairs, historical reenactments, and community gatherings.

Living in Pfafftown, NC

Pfafftown, north of Winston-Salem, offers a rural-suburban feel with farmland, open spaces, and residential neighborhoods.

Top Five Reasons To Live in Pfafftown, NC:

1. Quality of Life: Pfafftown offers a peaceful, rural-suburban lifestyle with a small-town atmosphere. Families are attracted to the area’s quiet neighborhoods, spacious homes, and proximity to nature.
2. Schools: Pfafftown is home to the highly regarded and top-rated Reagan High School, a public school in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School District. Families moving to Pfafftown often prioritize their children’s access to excellent educational opportunities.
3. Affordability: Pfafftown generally has more affordable housing options than larger cities like Winston-Salem. Families may find larger homes and more land for their money in Pfafftown.
4. Safe Community: Families moving to Pfafftown appreciate the safety and security of the community, as well as the opportunities for involvement in local events and activities.
5. C.G. Hill Memorial Park: Pfafftown’s 185-acre park is ideal for small group gatherings. At the park’s center is a 2.5-acre fishing lake with a gazebo and courtyard on one end and a 500+ year-old yellow poplar tree on the other. Paved walking trails also extend throughout the park.

Living in Walkertown, NC

Walkertown, northeast of Winston-Salem, has recently seen growth and development, but the town still has rural areas with farmland and open spaces. 

Top Five Reasons To Live in Walkertown, NC:

1. Rural Charm: Walkertown offers a small-town atmosphere with a rural charm that appeals to many residents. The community values its peaceful surroundings, slower pace of life, and close-knit community spirit.
2. Affordable Housing: Compared to larger urban areas, Walkertown typically offers more affordable housing options. Residents may find spacious homes, larger lots, and lower property prices, making it an attractive choice for homebuyers.
3. Family-Friendly Environment: Walkertown is known for its good schools and safe neighborhoods. Families appreciate the sense of security and the opportunities for children to grow and thrive in a supportive community.
4. Spirited Community: Walkertown has a strong sense of community, with residents actively involved in local events, organizations, and initiatives. The town hosts various community events throughout the year, fostering connections and camaraderie among its residents.
5. Walkertown Community Park: The Walkertown Community Park is a 28-acre park with tennis/pickleball courts, a sand volleyball court, a walking path, softball fields, and a soccer field. The park also has a picnic shelter with a neighboring playground, an excellent place for a kid-friendly gathering. 

The Downsides of Living in a Rural Town Near Winston-Salem, NC

Life in the surrounding countryside areas of Winston-Salem is perfect for many individuals and families. Still, it’s important to note the potential limitations of living in a rural town.

1. Limited Amenities: Forsyth County’s rural areas may have fewer amenities and services than larger urban areas. Residents may need to travel to nearby towns or cities for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
2. Limited Employment Opportunities: Rural areas often have fewer job opportunities than urban areas. Residents may need to commute to larger cities for work or telecommute if suitable job opportunities are unavailable locally.
3. Limited Public Transportation: Public transportation options may be limited in rural areas. Residents may rely on personal vehicles for transportation, which can be challenging for those without a car.
4. Internet and Connectivity Issues: Access to high-speed internet and reliable cell phone coverage may be limited in rural areas, a disadvantage for residents who rely on the internet for work, education, communication, or entertainment.
5. Distance from Family and Friends: Rural living may mean living farther away from family and friends, primarily if they reside in urban areas, making it more challenging to maintain social connections and support networks.