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.

This is a five-part series highlighting 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 2: Charming Rural Towns in Davidson County, NC

Davidson County, NC, is located just south of Winston-Salem and has a mix of rural and urban areas. Farms, forests, and smaller communities characterize the rural areas. Its countryside landscapes are represented beautifully in the works of internationally acclaimed realist painter Bob Timberlake, who makes his home in Lexington, NC.

Aside from its land and natural beauty, Davidson County is renowned for its barbecue tradition (particularly Lexington-style barbecue) and the furniture manufacturing industry.

Living in Lexington, NC

The county seat of Davidson County, Lexington, is the largest town in the county and is known for its rich history, barbecue culture, and furniture industry.

Top Five Reasons To Live in Lexington, NC:

1. Southern Charm: Lexington, NC locals cherish small-town values. The town exudes Southern hospitality and charm with its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where neighbors greet each other with a smile.
2. Affordable Living: Compared to larger cities, the cost of living in Lexington is generally more affordable. Housing prices are reasonable, and everyday expenses like groceries and utilities tend to be lower, allowing residents to enjoy a good quality of life without breaking the bank.
3. Rich Culinary Heritage: Lexington is famous for its barbecue, and residents take pride in the city’s culinary heritage. The locals take pride in their world-famous barbecue joints, frequently appearing in national magazines like Southern Living. 
4. Historic Downtown: Lexington’s historic downtown is charming and filled with local shops, restaurants, and galleries housed in beautifully preserved buildings. Residents enjoy strolling through downtown, exploring local boutiques, and soaking in the city’s historic ambiance.
5. High Rock Lake: High Rock Lake is the second-largest lake in North Carolina, covering approximately 15,180 acres and spanning parts of Davidson and Rowan counties. It’s about 15 miles southwest of Lexington and offers recreational activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, waterskiing, and kayaking. 

Living in Thomasville, NC

While the city itself is more urbanized, Thomasville’s rural areas lie on its outskirts, particularly to the north and west.

Top Five Reasons To Live in Thomasville, NC:

1. Rich History and Heritage: Thomasville has a rich history, particularly in furniture manufacturing, which has earned it the nickname “Chair City.” 
2. Cultural Events and Festivals: Thomasville hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Thomasville Chair City Christmas Parade and the Everybody’s Day Festival.
3. Family-Friendly Environment: With good schools, parks, and family-oriented amenities, Thomasville is a popular choice for families. The city’s safe and welcoming environment is ideal for raising children and building a life.
4. Affordable Housing: Thomasville offers relatively affordable housing compared to larger North Carolina cities, making it an attractive option for individuals and families looking to purchase homes or rent apartments without breaking the bank.
5. Outdoor Recreation: Thomasville has 12 parks and recreational facilities that include playgrounds, ball fields, a swimming pool, a skate park, picnic shelters, and walking trails. Click here for the map.

Living in Welcome, NC

Welcome, NC, is characterized by its countryside scenery, farms, and relatively low population density. While it does have some residential areas and small businesses, much of Welcome consists of rural landscapes, including farmland, forests, and open spaces.

Top Five Reasons To Live in Welcome, NC:

1. Rural Atmosphere: Welcome has a peaceful and scenic rural setting that appeals to those seeking a slower pace of life away from the hustle and bustle of urban areas. Residents appreciate the tranquility, natural beauty, and open spaces a rural community provides.
2. Close Proximity to Amenities: While Welcome maintains its rural charm, it is convenient to the larger towns of Lexington and Winston-Salem. Residents have access to essential amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions, without sacrificing the benefits of rural living.
3. Agricultural Heritage: Agriculture plays a significant role in the identity of Welcome, with many residents involved in farming and related industries. The Welcome community celebrates its agricultural heritage through local events, farmers’ markets, and the opportunity to purchase fresh, locally-grown produce.
4. Close-Knit Community: Welcome fosters a strong sense of community where neighbors know each other, look out for one another, and forge meaningful connections and friendships.
5. Outdoor Recreation: Welcome’s rural surroundings provide ample outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, fishing, hunting, boating, and horseback riding in the nearby parks, lakes, and forests.

Living in Denton, NC

Denton, NC, is a small town surrounded by countryside landscapes, farmland, and wooded areas. It has a rural atmosphere with a compact downtown area featuring local businesses, shops, and restaurants.

Top Five Reasons To Live in Walkertown, NC:

1. Small-Town Charm: Denton retains a quaint, small-town atmosphere. The tight-knit community fosters a sense of belonging and neighborliness, where people know each other by name and look out for one another.
2. Rural Setting: With picturesque countryside, rolling hills, farmland, and wooded areas, Denton is ideal for those looking to live in a tranquil location surrounded by natural beauty. 
3. Community Events: The privately-owned Denton Farm Park is home to some of the most exciting events in the Southeast. The park is best known for hosting the annual Southeast Old Threshers’ Reunion. 
4. Family-Friendly Environment: Denton is a family-friendly community with good schools, parks, and recreational facilities. Families appreciate the safe and nurturing environment the town provides for raising children.
5. Close Proximity to Nature: With High Rock Lake, Uwharrie National Forest, and other parks and natural attractions nearby, Denton residents have plenty of options for exploring the great outdoors and connecting with nature.

Living in Arcadia and Midway, NC

Midway and Arcadia are neighboring small, rural, unincorporated communities between the larger towns of Winston-Salem and Lexington.

Top Five Reasons To Live in Arcadia. and Midway, NC:

1. Location: Arcadia is approximately 10 miles southwest of Winston-Salem and about 15 miles northeast of Lexington. Midway is about 15 miles southwest of Winston-Salem and 10 miles northeast of Lexington. This proximity to Winston and Lexington gives residents convenient access to amenities and employment opportunities in nearby urban centers. 
2. Affordable Housing: Arcadia and Midway offer affordable housing options, including single-family homes, rural properties, and land for sale. Housing developers are excavating much of the community’s vacant land as many attempt to escape higher property taxes in nearby Forsyth County. The lower cost of living compared to urban areas makes it an attractive choice for individuals and families looking to purchase a home or settle down in a rural community. 
3. Rural Atmosphere: Arcadia and Midway offer peaceful and tranquil rural settings that appeal to those seeking a quieter way of life. 
4. Close-Knit Community: Arcadia and Midway have close-knit communities where neighbors (the little neighbors you may have) know each other and participate in local events and activities together. Community organizations and churches play a significant role in fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among locals.
5. Winery Tours: Take a short drive to nearby wineries and vineyards for wine tastings and tours. Visit Childress Vineyards or Weathervane Winery to sample locally produced wines and learn about the winemaking process.