Want to Live More Eco-Friendly? Here Are 5 Sustainable, Green Communities to Consider
by Robert Borges on December 14, 2021
With so many master-planned communities catering to so many lifestyle preferences, more and more are becoming environmentally conscious. Certified green homes…land conservation…renewable energy sources…community gardens. These are just a few of the things that make a community green and sustainable.
Whether you feel strongly about actively mitigating the effects of climate change, or just want to do your part in treating Mother Nature with care and respect, there are many benefits in trying to live a little more green—not just for the environment, but also for your health and your pocket book.
If eco-friendliness is on your checklist as you look for the perfect place to settle down in, here are a few environmentally considerate communities to help get your search started.
Ranked among RCLCO Real Estate Advisors’ “Top 50 Best-Selling Communities in America,” this innovative community includes a plethora of advanced smart technology and sustainable living features. eTown offers a pedestrian-friendly environment with a mix of social and recreational amenities, businesses, shops, and entertainment. Committed to sustainability, 50% of the community is dedicated to remaining as preserved natural land. There are also nine electric car charging stations within a 30-mile radius of eTown.
Located 40 minutes north of Atlanta, Lake Arrowhead is a gated mountain, lake, and golf community nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Spanning over 8,000 acres of woodland, residents enjoy an active, lakefront lifestyle. The community's 540-acre spring-fed lake (ranked the cleanest lake in the state) offers crystal-clear waters, perfect for various water activities such as pontoon boating, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing. With depths exceeding 80 feet, it's ranked among the cleanest lakes in the state. Residents stay engaged with year-round events including outdoor concerts, pickleball, golfing, wine tastings, and wellness classes.
GlenLaurel Preserve- Brevard, NC
GlenLaurel Preserve, nestled in North Carolina's Transylvania County, embodies sustainable mountain living. Carved into the Blue Ridge Mountains, it overlooks the French Broad River Valley and borders the Pisgah National Forest. Residents enjoy eco-conscious amenities like onsite hiking trails, trout streams, and a dog park. The community clubhouse, featuring The Laurel Club and Fiddler’s Roost, offers gathering spaces for events and shows. With proximity to downtown Brevard, including shops, restaurants, and healthcare facilities, GlenLaurel seamlessly blends modern comforts with environmental stewardship. Its 215-acre development by MountainSide Homebuilders emphasizes eco-friendly designs, preserving half of the land for mountain conservation and resident enjoyment.
Balsam Mountain Preserve- Sylva, NC
Unique in every sense, this western North Carolina mountain community has a history steeped in preservation—built on a commitment to preserve its natural surroundings. With 4,400 acres that are home to less than one residence per acre, Balsam Mountain Preserve is the lowest density private community in the Carolinas. Located less than 40 minutes west of Asheville, residents are treated to a mountain lifestyle complete with championship golf, outdoor recreation, and a vibrant social calendar.
Cadence at Century Farm- Meridian, ID
This award-winning 55-plus active adult community in Meridian, Idaho, is just 20 minutes from Boise. Residents enjoy a gated community with amenities such as a clubhouse, indoor pool, fitness center, and outdoor recreational options like walking trails and pickleball courts. A dedicated lifestyle director organizes socials and events for a vibrant community atmosphere. Nearby are top-rated golf courses, healthcare facilities, and shopping. Brighton Homes offers 100% Energy Star Certified signature homes with low-maintenance living services included.
See the complete list of PCR’s featured green communities to learn more and request information.
