From Staff Reports

In Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina, three localities were ranked by Joy Organics in the top 100 of its survey of the 150 best U.S. Cities and Towns to “Escape The Rat Race.”

Joy Organics bills itself as “a family-owned and operated CBD business that specializes in full spectrum and THC-free hemp products.”

Among the 3,000 municipalities that recently were surveyed, the WNC and Upstate “choice havens” were Asheville, rated 24th; Blowing Rock, 77th; and Greenville, S.C., 85th.

Meanwhile, the top 10 rated localities in the survey were the following:

#1 Kailua, Hawaii

#2 Pulaski, Tennessee

#3 Ferndale, California

#4 Paia, Hawaii

#5 Cold Spring, New York

#6 Aiken, South Carolina

#7 Ojai, California

#8 Marble Falls, Texas

#9 Virginia City, Nevada

#10 Huntington, West Virginia

JoyOrganics.com reported that it conducted its survey of 3,000 professionals in an effort to uncover the most coveted towns and cities in America for those aiming to distance themselves from the relentless pace of the rat race.

Participants were asked to name American localities where they would prefer to relocate to start afresh, far from the demanding environment of their current professions. 

As for the top-finisher, Kailua, Hawaii, the survey stated the following:

“Perhaps unsurprisingly, a Hawaii destination took the top spot. Located on Oahu, Kailua offers beautiful beaches, outdoor activities and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s ideal for a relaxed life, away from the city’s bustle.”

As for the two WNC destinations voted among the most coveted by professionals seeking to escape the corporate “rat race,” the survey stated the following:

#24 Asheville — “Known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture, Asheville offers a unique blend of bohemian culture, craft breweries and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for those wishing to escape corporate life.”

#77 Blowing Rock — “This charming mountain village offers breathtaking views, quaint shops, and outdoor adventures, perfect for a tranquil lifestyle in the Blue Ridge Mountains.”

As for the only top Upstate South Carolina finisher in the top 100, the survey stated:

# 85th Greenville, S.C. — “‘Yeah, that Greenville.’ (Sorry I had to!) Locals and visitors have been raving about Greenville, S.C., as one of the trendiest cities for a while now. I’ve still yet to make it down there, but it’s on the list. The culinary scene, parks and entertainment are just some of what this thriving city has to offer.”