Moving To Charlotte? This Relocation Guide Will Help

Southern comforts meet urban bustle in Charlotte, NC. Frequently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States, the city sits on the border of North and South Carolina and offers easy access to major metropolitan areas along the east coast.

Charlotte is known for NASCAR, major financial company headquarters, pimento cheese, mild weather, a historic streetcar line, and barbeque. The city has a long history and was named after King George III’s wife, leading to its nickname, the “Queen City.” Although it’s not the state capital, Charlotte is the largest city in North Carolina and the 16^th largest city in the United States, with a population of around 872,000.

Much of the city has a fast-paced cosmopolitan feel, but there are also ample suburban communities in the area offering that unique Charlotte charm.

Charlotte Area Communities

University City

Situated on the edge of Charlotte and surrounding the University of North Carolina at Charlotte is the University City neighborhood. Often characterized as lively and academic, University City has a diverse food scene and is also a business and research hub.

Concord

Located only 25 miles northeast of Charlotte, Concord offers family-friendly suburban living with beautiful parks and golf courses, popular breweries and restaurants, good schools, and a growing art scene.

Myers Park

With a tree canopy that is over a century old, historic mansion-lined streets, stunning green spaces, and a popular bicycle loop, Myers Park is one of the top neighborhoods in the city and is just south of downtown Charlotte.

Dilworth

Dilworth is a historic neighborhood close to the heart of Charlotte. Many of the homes in this area are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Mature oak trees, good sidewalks, and front porches make it incredibly walkable.

Uptown

Uptown Charlotte is one of the most popular areas in the city, encompassing downtown Charlotte and the business district, where many major companies are headquartered. Uptown offers an urban vibe, with many apartments and condos.

Huntersville

Huntersville is a suburban city a short 14-mile drive from Charlotte with waterfront access to Lake Norman. Nature preserves, a charming shopping area, golf courses, and affordable suburban homes are just a few of the perks of this friendly community.

Ballantyne

Ballantyne is a fast-growing neighborhood with good schools and a lot to do. Ballantyne Corporate Park, a 2,000 acre community with tons of office space, apartments, single family homes, hotels, and more, is also located in this area.

Mint Hill

Southeast of Charlotte is Mint Hill, a suburban neighborhood with small town southern hospitality. Residents enjoy ample community-based events, great restaurants, and a peaceful bucolic setting.

NoDa

NoDa is the heart of Charlotte’s arts scene, and has a trendy mix of old and new. Committed to promoting the arts , small businesses, and restaurants, while providing culturally enriching entertainment.

Top Charlotte School Districts

Charlotte has great schools, where your children can thrive!

Finding the right school district for your children has a major impact on their quality of life and path to success. These are the top rated school districts in the Charlotte Area; if you want to delve deeper into school records and standards for the State of North Carolina, NewHomeSource has a guide to all the resources you need to find the right school for your child.

Fort Mills School District

Students Served: 14,024

School Breakdown: 9 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 2 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 18

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in most demographics

Communities Served: Fort Mill, Old Orchid, Kanawha Hills, Whiteville Park, Grey Rock, Carowood

Clover School District

Students Served: 7,535

School Breakdown: 7 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 1 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 14

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in most demographics

Communities Served: The city of Clover

Union County Public Schools

Students Served: 42,199

School Breakdown: 32 elementary schools, 11 middle schools, and 13 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 16

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in most demographics

Communities Served: Mineral Springs, Lake Park, Hemby Bridge, Fairview

Mooresville Graded School District

Students Served: 6,130

School Breakdown: 5 elementary schools, 1 middle schools, and 2 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 17

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics

Communities Served: The city of Mooresville

York School District No. 1

Students Served: 5,163

School Breakdown: 5 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 2 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 15

Test Proficiency: Below state averages

Communities Served: Sharon, Hickory Grove, McConnells

Lincoln County Schools

Students Served: 11,622

School Breakdown: 15 elementary schools, 6 middle schools, and 6 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 16

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics

Communities Served: Lincoln County

Cabarrus County Schools

Students Served: 31,408

School Breakdown: 21 elementary schools, 10 middle schools, and 11 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 16

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in most demographics

Communities Served: Concord, Harrisburg, Mount Pleasant

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools

Students Served: 146,211

School Breakdown: 117 elementary schools, 50 middle schools, and 40 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 16

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in most demographics

Communities Served: The city of Charlotte

Rock Hill Schools

Students Served: 17,795

School Breakdown: 19 elementary schools, 6 middle schools, and 3 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 15

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in most demographics

Communities Served: Rock Hills

Gaston County Schools

Students Served: 32,091

School Breakdown: 32 elementary schools, 14 middle schools, and 13 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 17

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in most demographics

Communities Served: Gastonia, Bessemer City, McAdenville, Ranlo, High Shoals

Top Employers in Charlotte

Wells Fargo is just one of many major employers in the Charlotte Area.

The finance sector is one of the largest employers in the Charlotte Area, whit its economy bolstered by the energy and healthcare industries as well.

Bank of America

While Bank of America isn’t headquartered in Charlotte, it still remains one of the largest employers in the area, with over 15,000 employees in the city.

Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo is another major financing company operating in Charlotte, employing almost 25,000 people in the metro area.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy is one of the largest electric power holding companies in the country. Its Charlotte headquarters makes it one of the largest employers in the area.

Atrium Health

Atrium Health has over 40 hospitals and 900 care locations in the Carolinas, employing over 60,000 people in both states, with a large chunk focused in its Charlotte headquarters.

Novant Health

Novant Health also employs a lot of people working in the Charlotte healthcare sector, with over 28,000 people working in its Charlotte hub.

Charlotte Area Museums

Live colorfully in Charlotte, and explore great museums.

Mint Museum

The Mint Museum has two locations offering a vast collection of art. Mint Museum Randolph, located in the former Charlotte Mint where gold was once coined, was the first art museum in North Carolina. Mint Museum Uptown is a newer, modern building that focuses primarily on craft and design pieces.

Discovery Place Science

Located in the Uptown neighborhood, Discovery Place Science is a hands-on interactive science museum perfect for children and adults alike. The museum also has an IMAX Dome Theatre, where visitors can receive an up-close movie experience on a three-story dome-shaped screen.

NASCAR Hall of Fame

Charlotte is well-known for the Charlotte Motor Speedway, its NASCAR race track, and the NASCAR Hall of Fame is the perfect tribute to the sport. Top exhibits in the museum include the Hall of Honor, racing simulators, and the history of NASCAR.

Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

Close to the Mint Museum Uptown, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is a large modern art museum in a sleek four-story building that is a work of art itself. Focusing on 20th-century modernism, the museum’s collection has works from prominent modern artists including Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso.

Levine Museum of the New South

The Levine Museum of the New South’s post-American Civil War exhibits are the perfect place to learn about North Carolina and southern history. Permanent exhibits include a tenant farmer’s house and a civil-rights lunch counter, and changing exhibits offer further learning opportunities.

Latta Plantation

15 miles northwest of Charlotte near Mountain Island Lake is the Latta Plantation, a historic federal-style plantation home built in 1800. The house and its grounds serve as a living history museum, teaching visitors about the history of the area.

Reed Gold Mine

Many people may not know that the first gold in the U.S. was actually discovered west of Charlotte in the Reed Gold Mine. Portions of the historic mine have been restored and guided tours are offered, as well as a visitor center with interesting mining exhibits and an opportunity to try out gold-panning.

Great Parks in the Charlotte Area

Reconnect with nature in Charlotte’s fantastic parks.

Freedom Park

South of downtown, and surrounding a small lake is Freedom Park, a 98-acre green space with trails, tennis courts, sports fields, and a playground, as well as a steam engine that visitors can actually walk inside. Summer movies and musical performances are offered, and a popular festival takes place every September.

McDowell Nature Center and Reserve

McDowell Nature Center and Reserve is about 18 miles southwest of Charlotte. 1,132 acres of natural flora and fauna are preserved. Visitors enjoy trails, a nature center, camping, and many more recreational opportunities in this quiet sanctuary from the city.

First Ward Park

First Ward Park, in the Uptown neighborhood, is a 4.6 acre park in the center of the urban area. A unique play structure, splash pad, exercise path, and large green space attract park-goers and summer concerts bring the community together at this park.

Hornets Nest Park

Hornets Nest Park in northern Charlotte features a BMX bicycle track, playgrounds, a fishing lake, disc golf, and several sports fields and courts. The popular park offers something for everyone.

Romare Bearden Park

Another popular Uptown Charlotte park is Romare Bearden Park, in a prime location across from the BB&T Ballpark. Fantastic downtown views and interesting design features make this park a beautiful place to relax in the urban area.

Reedy Creek Park

Reedy Creek Park is in the western part of the city and is adjacent to the Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve. The 125-acre park has typical park amenities, including a dog park, community garden, picnic spots, sports fields and courts, and tree-lined trails.

Charlotte Sports Teams

You Can Root On (Or Pretend You Don’t Care About)

Charlotte is the perfect place to live if you’re a sports fan – the city is home to many national sports teams and has large sporting events each year.

Racing fans will enjoy the Charlotte Motor Speedway, which hosts national and international events including the Coca-Cola 600, the longest NASCAR race. The Charlotte Hornets are the city’s popular NBA basketball team, and the Carolina Panthers NFL football team also call the city their home.

Several universities in the area provide fun sporting events as well. For those less interested in the big-name sports, Charlotte also has national Rugby teams, a women’s roller derby team, and a cricket club.

Living in Charlotte

Live a life you love in Charlotte!

Charlotte is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States, and the city’s status as the second largest banking center in the U.S. means the job market is hot.

The median age of Charlotteans is 34, making it an attractive place for students, young professionals, families, and retirees alike. The city’s public transportation includes streetcars, buses, and a light rail system, but cars are still the most popular mode of transportation in this sprawling city.

The cost of living in Charlotte is lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to call home.

Houston Housing Trends

The lower cost of living and variety of job opportunities make Charlotte an appealing city, and the balance between southern comforts and metropolitan opportunities continue to attract people to the Queen City. With high growth, the housing market is one of the hottest in the nation. However, there are lots of housing options for those moving to the city, from a condo in the city center to a large family home in one of the many surrounding suburbs.

Median Home Price: $228,800

Housing costs in Charlotte are slightly lower than the national average. That means more money in the budget to enjoy all of the fantastic amenities the city offers.

Growing Communities in Central Charlotte

Living close to Charlotte’s vibrant urban hub feels like a never ending dream. This exciting and historic city has a number of new home communities within its main loop, perfect for young professionals and anyone else who wants to never worry about commuting.

Neighborhoods, like Montford Park and Parkwood Square, deliver new construction homes and luxurious urban living. Start your journey to homeownership today!

Growing Communities in East Charlotte

Mint Hill and Allen are two great East Charlotte cities that offer the best of all possible worlds to growing families that need to stay close to the city. Comfortable new home communities, like Waterleaf and Larkhaven Hills, have beautiful new construction houses available for sale, without the nightmare commute times typically associated with suburbia.

Growing Communities in North Charlotte

Davidson and Mooresville are two wonderful commuter cities, that feel designed for growing families looking to spread out and be comfortable. North Charlotte’s suburbs give your family a peaceful and private environment where you can flourish.

Explore new home communities, like Davidson East and Gambrill Forest, in North Charlotte, and make your dream home a reality.

Growing Communities in South Charlotte

What has a comfortable suburban environment and short commutes. South Charlotte, aka the perfect place to build your new home. Indian Land and Waxhaw are two of the towns outside Downtown Charlotte with new home communities, like Barber Rock and Millbridge, that offer residents a lifestyle that books no compromise.

Amazing Charlotte Restaurants

From barbeque to soul food, classic diners to vegetarian-focused eateries, Charlotte’s restaurant scene has something for everyone to enjoy.

Enjoy new takes on comfort food in Charlotte!

Haberdish

Haberdish has southern comfort food in a trendy atmosphere that serves dinner and brunch. Menu highlights include fried chicken, grits, mac and cheese, okra, biscuits, and unique cocktails.

Midwood Smokehouse

Midwood Smokehouse has several locations around Charlotte and serves reasonably-priced barbeque with all of the delicious traditional southern sides.

Jasmine Grill

Decently-priced Mediterranean food is the name of the game at Jasmine Grill in the southwestern part of Charlotte. Jasmine Grill’s menu includes falafel, hummus, kebobs, wraps, and Shawarma plates, and there are options for meat-eaters and vegetarians alike.

Pinky’s Westside Grill

Pinky’s Westside Grill is just east of downtown Charlotte and serves inexpensive hotdogs, burgers, and fries with vegan and vegetarian options.

Wooden Robot Brewery

This brewery with a funky name is located in the South End area, and includes a 15-barrel brewery, taproom, and biergarten. Their beers are created using a blend of old-school inspiration and innovative techniques.

Renaissance Patisserie

If you’re craving something sweet, Renaissance Patisserie in southern Charlotte is the perfect destination. Renaissance Patisserie makes delicious, authentic French baked goods and has both indoor and outdoor seating.

The King’s Kitchen

In the Uptown neighborhood of Charlotte is a non-profit, southern-inspired restaurant that focuses on sourcing their food from nearby farms. Restaurant profits are donated to charity, so you can feel good while enjoying their extensive lunch and dinner menus.

Living Kitchen

Vegetarian and vegans rejoice – there is no meat on the menu at Living Kitchen. Still, even meat-lovers enjoy their organic menu items served with spectacular presentation in a trendy atmosphere.

Smelly Cat Coffee

Smelly Cat Coffee is in the NoDa arts district neighborhood of Charlotte. This cozy coffee shop roasts their own beans and focuses on providing a “judgement-free” coffee experience, so you won’t be judged if you like your cup of joe with lots of sugar.

Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q

Southwest of Charlotte close to the state border, Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q provides the authentic southern barbeque experience that is a local favorite.

The Fig Tree Restaurant

Situated in a renovated 1913 craftsman home in the historic Elizabeth neighborhood of Charlotte is Fig Tree Restaurant, an upscale Italian eatery that is frequently called one of Charlotte’s most romantic restaurants.

Nana’s Soul Food Kitchen

Nana’s Soul Food Kitchen is in southwest Charlotte near the airport and is one of the best soul food restaurants in the area. Chicken, ribs, yams, collard greens, cornbread, and black eyed peas are just a few of the delicious soul food staples served here.

Tupelo Honey

Self-described as “new Southern,” Tupelo Honey serves classic southern food with a twist near the Dilworth area. They offer brunch, lunch, dinner, desserts, and even have a good kid’s menu.

Hawkers Asian Street Fare

Hawkers is a bustling restaurant serving authentic Asian street food in a renovated industrial building. Hawkers is great for ordering several small plates and sharing, allowing you to try a bite of everything.

Sabor Latin Street Grill

Sabor Latin Street Grill has several locations around Charlotte and serves inexpensive but delicious Mexican food, including a variety of tacos.

Rhino Market & Deli

Get your sandwich fix at Rhino Market & Deli, a popular and classic deli with several locations in Charlotte. In addition to sandwiches, they also serve breakfast, beer, and wine, and have ample indoor and outdoor seating.

Midnight Diner

Midnight Diner is a classic old-school style diner in the Dilworth area. Kids and adults alike love their retro booths, extensive and affordable menu, and 1950s-style exterior. Plus, they’re open 24/7.

Sea Level NC

For seafood lovers, Sea Level NC in Uptown Charlotte is the perfect place to enjoy oysters, lobster rolls, clam chowder, and other delicious menu items sourced primarily from the Carolina coast.

Great Attractions for Charlotte Stay-cations

Carowinds

Carowinds is an amusement park located on the North and South Carolina state line, with part of the park in each state. Traditional roller coasters, more intense thrill rides, and kid rides can entertain the whole family, and there’s even a hotel so you can stay and play another day.

Lake Norman

Less than 20 miles north of Charlotte is Lake Norman, where recreational opportunities are abundant. Spend the day on the water, relax on the beach with a book, or wander the shops and restaurants nearby. Regular events like boat parades, Highland Games, music festivals, and races on the lake provide even more entertainment at Lake Norman.

ImaginOn

ImaginOn is the ultimate family learning center – with spaces for kids of all ages including teens, the center is a collaboration between the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. Cool hangout spots, theater performances, an interactive Story Lab, and a studio for making videos and music encourage creativity and learning for all ages.

Charlotte Brews Cruise

Sip back and relax on the Charlotte Brews Cruise, a tour of many of Charlotte’s popular craft breweries. A driver takes you from brewery to brewery, where you can sample beer and get a behind the scenes look at the brewing process.

US National Whitewater Center

Home of the world’s largest man-made whitewater river, the U.S. National Whitewater Center is a unique attraction. Visitors can brave the rapids and try whitewater rafting and kayaking, or enjoy land sports including ice skating and mountain biking. The center also has a sky bridge course, zipline, and an adventure course. Thrill-seekers will love it here, but the many outdoor activities are also great for families.

Crowders Mountain State Park

If you’re looking to escape in nature, 25 miles from Charlotte is Crowders Mountain State Park. Hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging are the perfect way to enjoy the fresh air, and views from the 1,600-foot mountain are spectacular. Parts of Crowders Mountain are very rocky, offering bouldering and rock climbing opportunities as well.

Blumenthal Performing Arts Center

Watch a Broadway musical, laugh along at a comedy show, attend a concert, or enjoy the ballet at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. Three theaters in the center offer a wide variety of entertainment, and its location in Charlotte’s Uptown neighborhood makes it easy to grab something to eat before or after the show.

7th Street Public Market

7th Street Public Market, in the heart of the city, is an indoor market with various vendors ranging from local shopping, bars, bakeries, local ingredients, and places to grab a bite to eat. The Market is a fun opportunity to explore your inner foodie and get a taste of Charlotte, all in one convenient downtown location.

Shopping

Charlotte and its surrounding suburbs have several traditional shopping malls, but the city also offers unique shopping destinations that not only guarantee you’ll find something great to buy, but also provide interesting and fun ways to spend a day out.

Latta Arcade

Latta Arcade is a historic shopping arcade in the Uptown neighborhood. Built in 1914, Latta Arcade has two stories of unique shops and restaurants with a stunning skylight over the center atrium and an interesting history behind the building.

The Sleepy Poet Antique Mall

The Sleepy Poet is a 60,000 square foot antique mall, widely considered to have the best antiques in the state. Antique furniture, home decor, vintage clothing, and vintage records fill every corner of the large building, and you’re certain to spot something unique each time you visit.

Specialty Shops SouthPArk

An outdoor shopping area in the southern part of Charlotte, Specialty Shops SouthPark are a great way to get some sunshine while browsing their mix of big-name stores, locally-owned boutiques, and restaurants.

Ruby’s Gift

Located in NoDa, Charlotte’s arts district, Ruby’s Gift is a local artisan shopping and gallery space. Ruby’s Gift supports local artists and offers one-of-a-kind handmade goods.

Places of Worship

Find the right place of worship for you and your family in Charlotte.

Charlotte is a diverse city, and has numerous places of worship that represent a wide range of faiths and religions.

Christ Church Charlotte

Christ Church Charlotte is an Episcopal Church that serves the greater Charlotte Area. It engages, equips, and empowers its community, while serving each other.

The Islamic Society of Greater Charlotte

The Islamic Society of Greater Charlotte is the oldest Muslim organization serving Muslims the Charlotte Area, founded in 1978.

Temple Israel

Temple Israel is a warm and engaging synagogue, affiliated with Conservative Judaism. It brings innovation and creativity to Jewish traditions, so members can transform their lives.

Kadampa Meditation Center North Carolina

The Kadampa Meditation Center welcomes everyone. It offers extensive meditation classes for people interested in seeking the truth and opening their minds.

Shrinath Dham Haveli

The Shrinath Dham Haveli seeks to fill the devotional needs for all Vaishnavs in the Carolinas, so Hindus can worship and pray together, as well as observe and celebrate festivals together.

Other North Carolina Resources

Top Master Planned Communities Near Raleigh, NC Top Master Planned Communities near Charlotte, NC First-Time Homebuyer Programs in North Carolina Best Modular Home Builders in Asheville: 2021 Edition The Best Suburbs of Raleigh, North Carolina Moving To Raleigh? This Relocation Guide Will Help Top 10 Safest Cities in North Carolina Moving To Charlotte? This Relocation Guide Will Help Why Charlotte Is the Third Fastest-Growing City in The Country The 10 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina in 2021