Top 5 Counties in North Carolina to Buy Affordable Acreage (2025)

Looking for budget-friendly acreage in North Carolina? Whether you’re planning to build, invest, or simply enjoy wide-open space, these five counties offer some of the most affordable land in the state—without sacrificing long-term value.

1. Halifax County

Average Price Per Acre: $3,000–$4,500
Region: Northeastern NC
Source: LandWatch, [LandFlip], MLS data

Halifax County tops the list for low-cost acreage, with large agricultural parcels and timberland priced well below the state average. It’s ideal for buyers looking for investment land or hunting tracts in a quiet, rural setting.

• Why It’s Affordable: Low development pressure and slow population growth

• Best For: Farmland, land banking, recreational use

👉 Tip: Look for properties with timber income potential or farm leases.

2. Jones County

Average Price Per Acre: $3,500–$5,500
Region: Eastern NC
Source: Lands of America, [Canopy MLS]

Just inland from the coast, Jones County offers agricultural and wooded acreage perfect for farming or recreation. With flat terrain and low prices, it’s a hidden gem for long-term investment.

• Why It’s Affordable: Rural location, limited commercial growth

• Best For: Recreational buyers, agriculture, timberland

👉 Tip: Parcels along the Trent River offer natural beauty without the coastal price tag.

3. Anson County

Average Price Per Acre: $4,500–$7,500
Region: South-Central NC
Source: [LandWatch], [MLS], county GIS comps

East of Charlotte’s growing suburbs, Anson County is catching attention from buyers looking for space to spread out. While still affordable, values are rising due to Charlotte’s outward growth.

• Why It’s Affordable: Rural zoning, agricultural use dominates

• Best For: Homesteaders, pastureland, long-term appreciation

👉 Tip: The western edge of the county offers proximity to Monroe and major highways.

4. Wilkes County

Average Price Per Acre: $5,000–$8,000
Region: Northwestern NC
Source: [LandFlip], [MLS], [LoopNet rural comps]

Known for rolling hills and river access, Wilkes County provides scenic, usable land in the foothills—without the pricing of nearby High Country areas like Ashe or Watauga.

• Why It’s Affordable: Less tourism than Boone or Blowing Rock

• Best For: Off-grid living, cabins, weekend retreats

👉 Tip: Look for land near the Yadkin River or Stone Mountain State Park for recreation and value.

5. Burke County

Average Price Per Acre: $6,500–$9,000
Region: Western NC Foothills
Source: [Lands of America], [Canopy MLS], [Realtor.com]

The most expensive on this list—but still affordable relative to Asheville—Burke County offers beautiful mountain scenery, lake access, and small-town charm near Morganton and Glen Alpine.

• Why It’s Affordable: Outside Asheville’s premium price zone

• Best For: Vacation homes, investment, outdoor lifestyle

👉 Tip: Parcels near Lake James or Pisgah National Forest hold long-term recreational and resale value.

Final Thoughts

While land prices continue to rise in many parts of North Carolina, these five counties remain strongholds for affordable acreage in 2025. Whether you’re buying for personal use or long-term investment, opportunities still exist for savvy buyers who act quickly—and partner with a land-savvy expert.

Ready to Explore Affordable Land?

At Carolina Land Network, we specialize in rural property sales across North Carolina. Our team can help you identify high-value acreage and avoid the common pitfalls that come with buying land.

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