Western North Carolina economy shows recovery despite Helene-related job losses

Nearly two years after Hurricane Helene, western North Carolina is experiencing economic recovery characterized by a low unemployment rate of approximately 3.3%, which sits below both state and national averages. However, the region continues to face significant hurdles, including population loss and the disappearance of roughly 2,500 tourism-supported jobs since 2023, with Buncombe County seeing the most substantial impact.

While large-scale investments are bolstering the area—including $800 million in Buncombe County and major expansions in Henderson County by Jabil and BorgWarner—wages remain below state and national averages. Economic experts note that long-term stability depends on supporting small businesses, particularly those in the tourism and hospitality sectors, to offset the high cost of living and job losses caused by the storm.