With over 2,000 homes within the community, the diverse Oakley neighborhood is conveniently located just off I-240 and adjoins Sweeten Creek Road to the west and the Blue Ridge Parkway to the southeast. In addition to being located just south of downtown Asheville and the Kenilworth neighborhood, Oakley is home to Oakley Elementary, the Oakley Library, a fire station, and a police substation.
Its centrality to Asheville offers easy access to the city’s plentiful art, food, and culture while also providing convenience to nearby grocery and department stores such as Home Depot, Target, Walmart, Whole Foods, and Lowe's – all within a less than 2-mile radius.
History of the Oakley Neighborhood
While not officially incorporated into the City of Asheville until 1960, the Oakley area, formerly known as “West’s Chapel” or “East Biltmore,” was an area that housed workers at Sayles Bleachery in the early 1900s. As small developments were established along Fairview Road, the Oakley boundaries were drawn around these existing sites. Oakley’s rich history lives on with many of its original housing stock, largely mill homes, that have been lovingly renovated. In addition, many newly built craftsman-style homes fill once vacant lots. Those seeking Oakley homes for sale are sure to find a prized piece of Asheville’s rich history.
The Personality of Oakley
Appropriately named after the old-growth oak trees that line the neighborhood, Oakley has a classic neighborhood feel and is a close-knit 
community with elements like the Fairview Road Resilience Garden (which was established in 2020) and offers neighbors an option to plot and grow their own produce in one of the raised beds. The Oakley/South Asheville Library, Murphy-Oakley Park, and Oakley Elementary School are all central to the neighborhood and offer natural gathering places for members of the community.
“East Biltmore” and Recreation
Asheville’s primary tourist attraction, the Biltmore Estate, with its sprawling grounds and specially curated gardens, neighbors the Oakley community. Along with historic Biltmore Village, Biltmore Estate is arguably the most notable landmark in our beautiful city. Oakley’s positioning gives residents unique access to the Biltmore’s endless options for recreation.
Whether exploring Biltmore Estate’s many trails on foot or on bike, picnicking among its rolling pastureland, strolling through its thriving gardens, dining at its renowned restaurants, or sampling locally made libations at its winery, there are endless entertainment opportunities, all in one location. Just 5 minutes from Oakley, residents can also access the Blue Ridge Parkway’s Visitor Center, miles of scenic drives, and countless hiking trails and overlooks. Kids of all ages will be thrilled to know the WNC Nature Center is at a similar proximity—just 
5 minutes from the community!
Whether you're interested in Asheville homes for sale or are specifically focused on the Oakley neighborhood, our knowledgeable team of local brokers is here to discuss options and help guide your search.