Cashiers, also in the southeast, is a respectable skiing area. Much of the county is covered with Nantahala National Forest. Waterfalls, one of the major attractions in the Carolina Mountains, abound and most of them are very accessible. Western Carolina University is located in Cullowhee and serves as an attraction for retirees who want to 'jump ship' from the hustle and bustle of the 'civilized world' but still be able to enjoy the culture which surrounds the University. Though primarily rural and residential, there is a good balance of sustaining industry.
Most businesses are 'small', community oriented businesses.
The presence of Western Carolina University in Sylva adds measurably to the economic health of Sylva and the surrounding area. Real estate is revalued every 8 years in North Carolina and assessments are at 'market value'. Rail Southern Railroad services Addie, Balsam, Dillsboro and Sylva in northern Jackson County. Jackson County Library in Sylva Learning Resources Center at Southwestern Community College in Webster Newspapers Local to Jackson County is the Sylva Herald, published weekly. The Asheville Citizen-Times is the only daily and is distributed throughout the larger communities of Jackson County.