Are you thinking about moving to Charlotte NC, or the surrounding area? Well, there’s definitely some things you may want to consider before making that move! Charlotte NC is a bustling city that continues to thrive, and has many selling points for potential new residents. When you consider moving to Charlotte NC, you’re joining the 100+ people moving to Charlotte, NC each day.

People who are considering relocating to North Carolina often end up in Charlotte or Raleigh and that is thanks to the pros without many of the cons other places have. We have put together this article to review the pros and cons about calling Charlotte NC your home, to help the folks who are considering moving here.  

The Queen City is full of surprises from fine dining options and rooftop cocktail bars, to 24-hour French pastry shops and a thriving arts scene. Are you a sports enthusiast? How about a history buff? This might just be the city for you to call your new home. There are many factors when considering a relocation to a new city.

Before moving to Charlotte, let’s get you acquainted with its charm by noting these main selling points, some of the areas of interest, and some “not so great” aspects to consider as well. In this article we will review:

1. The location of Charlotte NC 

2. Things to do in Charlotte NC 

3. The food in Charlotte NC 

4. Weather in Charlotte NC

5. Where you live in Charlotte NC MATTERS

6. The Traffic in Charlotte NC

7. The Job Market in Charlotte NC

8. Homes For Sale in Charlotte NC

1. The Location of Charlotte NC: 

Charlotte NC is Located in South Central North Carolina. In the heart of Mecklenburg County, Charlotte NC rests on the boarder of North Carolina and South Carolina. No, Charlotte NC is not a coastal city and we are not a “mountain city,” (even though we have a very hilly topography). However, Charlotte NC finds itself nestled between The Smokey Mountains (about 2 – 2 1/2 hours to the West) and the Carolina Coast (about 3 – 3 1/2 to the East), allowing you to take a day trip or a quick vacation to some great natural beauty!

The Smokey Mountains

If you love being close to the mountains, then you’re in luck! You can take a quick drive to the Smokey Mountains and enjoy a plethora of fantastic activities from seeing the jaw dropping cascading waterfalls, roaming the wildlife, and hiking to mountain biking and skiing! Here are a few great places to visit: 

1. Asheville: (Lively City + Great Breweries) Nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville has long been known as the “Paris of the South,” thanks to its vibrant creative community, stunning historic architecture, and rich history. The historic Blue Ridge Parkway runs through the city, and many residents use this picturesque road for their daily commutes. Asheville’s restaurant and brewery scene is thriving, and you’ll never run out of delicious food and craft beer to enjoy as a resident here. There’s always something going on in Asheville, from festivals to concerts to historic tours and much more.  ETA 2 hr + 5 Min

2. Brevard: (Beautiful Waterfalls + Natural Scenery) Here you’ll find 250 spectacular waterfalls, 100,000 acres of public lands (including Pisgah, DuPont, Gorges and Headwaters), a dynamic live music, restaurant and craft brewery scene and beautiful Brevard, which Budget Travel calls one of the “coolest small towns in America.” ETA 2 hr + 20 Min

3. Boone: (For Thrill Seekers) From challenging mountain sports to cozy mountain cabins, from festivals and art galleries to Tweetsie Railroad Theme Park, Boone is where adrenaline junkies and leisure seekers alike flock for the perfect getaway any time of year. Break away from your daily routine and dive into your perfect adventure. From fly fishing and canoeing, to zip lining and skiing, Boone is the perfect escape. For great mountain biking (in the summer) and Skiing/snowboarding (in the winter) be sure to visit Sugar Mountain or Beech Mountain.  ETA 1 hr + 58 min

The Carolina Coast

The North and South Carolina coast covers a broad sweep of parks, islands, forts, history and more just waiting for you to explore. Carolina Beaches are some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Miles and Miles of National seashore await your visit. The Carolinas have beaches suited to every taste, whether you enjoy sunbathing, water sports, boating, surfing, fishing, climbing lighthouse towers, bird watching or diving among the shipwrecks. The highways in the Carolinas are in excellent condition, which will make your vacation a nice, smooth ride.

In the Carolinas, we are loyal to our beaches. Whether you prefer the crowded boardwalks at Myrtle Beach or the quiet shores along the Outer Banks, you know what you like and you go there regularly, often every year. No matter what you’re looking for in a seaside trip this summer on the Carolina coast, here are some of the most popular by Charlotte NC: 

1. Charleston, SC: (Historic, Established, & a Great Downtown): Charleston may be known for its natural beauty, world class restaurants, shopping, and romantic appeal, but what people fall in love with is its overall charm. You have many beaches to choose from in Charleston like Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, and Sullivans island. Each with their own appeal and vibe! ETA 3 hour + 11 Min

2. Myrtle Beach, SC: (Large Hotels, Entertainment Galore, Great Golfing) Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is 60 miles of beautiful sandy beaches, exciting attractions, and celebrity designed golf courses. It is home to high rise hotels, resorts, oceanfront condos, and vacation rentals. Explore the boardwalk for a beachfront view of the Atlantic Ocean, or get some of the best attractions, restaurants, and shopping Myrtle Beach has to offer at Broadway at the Beach. Myrtle Beach is the perfect place for a wonderful family vacation. ETA 3 hr + 30 min

3. Wilmington, NC: (Historic, Great Downtown, Similar to Charleston,SC) The heart of Wilmington is concentrated in its lively, walkable river district, which showcases the city’s progressive culture and historic setting. Defined by its rich past and a bright future, Wilmington, NC, is a vibrant riverfront city with timeless character that has preserved its historic places, while fostering an ever evolving independent spirit. From the charm of its moss draped, brick lined historic district to the evolving north end of its river district, there are new things to discover around every corner. Wilmington offers three beautiful island beaches:  Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach offer a destination of endless vacation experiences.

 Don’t think you have to travel from Charlotte to experience natures beauty. Charlotte has some fantastic natural beauty all around it. There are 3 lakes right near Charlotte NC: Lake Wylie, Lake Norman, and Mountain Island Lake. So, if you are looking for your slice of paradise on the water, then you’re in luck!

For those of you who love the mountains, Charlotte NC also has some great things to offer!  You have Crowders Mountain State Park that offers challenging hikes, towering cliffs and 25 mile views of the surrounding Piedmont (ETA 45 min). You also have the US National White Water Center, the world’s premier outdoor center featuring white water rafting, mountain biking, zip lines and more!

Are you a travel bug? You’re in luck! Wether you travel for work, or pleasure, you will find it super easy in Charlotte NC! You have the Charlotte International Airport for your convenience. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is ranked among world’s busiest airports, with an average of 1,424 arrivals and departures and 118,636 people traveling to, from and though CLT each day, according to Airport Council International’s 2021 rankings. CLT offers nonstop air service to 184 destinations around the globe and is home to eight major air carriers, 15 regional carriers and three foreign flag carriers.

2. Things to do in Charlotte NC 

From thrilling adventures to moving artistic performances, family play dates and magnetic nightlife, Charlotte holds something for everyone. Better grab a pen, these parts of city life aren’t to be missed. 

1. US National White Water Center: Take your pick between more than 30 different land and water activities at the U.S. National Whitewater Center, a 1,300 acre facility northwest of downtown Charlotte along the Catawba River. At the world’s largest human made whitewater river, you’ll have your choice of a variety of activities, including kayaking (both flat water and whitewater), stand up paddle boarding, and whitewater rafting. In fact, the center is home to one of the best white water rafting tours in North Carolina. Be sure to keep an eye on their calendar for their fantastic events, live music, and a great atmosphere.

2. Carowinds: Carowinds is one of the largest theme parks in the Southeast and is home to two of the tallest steel roller coasters in North America. With a total of 14 roller coasters, it ranks 5th in the world as having the most roller coasters in one park. While the park’s main focus is on the teenage and young adult market, it does also host a sprawling children’s area, Planet Snoopy, themed around the Peanuts characters. In addition, you are able to cool off at Carolina Harbor water park that is included with your admission ticket (open seasonally). I believe that there’s fun for everyone. 

3. Pro Sports Events: Charlotte is home to all things pro sports and is a hub for fans, fanatics and aficionados looking to attend a thrilling game from one of several high profile teams.

1. Carolina Panthers (Football): Created by a former pro footballer, the Carolina Panthers have called Uptown Charlotte home since 1993. The team’s mantra, “Keep Pounding,” has become a message of perseverance for Charlotteans.

2. Charlotte Hornets (Basketball): The Charlotte Hornets were one of four new teams brought into the league back in 1988. The “original” Hornets were incredibly popular in the Queen City, but in 2002 the team left for New Orleans and Charlotte became the home of the Bobcats. Thanks to minority owner and NBA legend Michael Jordan, the Hornets are at home in the Queen City once again and the hype for “Buzz City” is at an all time high.

3. Charlotte Knights (Baseball): The Charlotte Knights made Uptown home in 2014 when the newly constructed Truist Field opened. Dubbed the “Best Ballpark in Minor League Baseball” by Baseball America. Truist Field has quickly become the place to be for a great evening out during the warm Charlotte summer evenings. Don’t miss the nightly fireworks and the NC Local Craft Beer Garden, where fans can enjoy All Knight Long, the team’s official brew crafted by BirdSong Brewery.

4. NASCAR (Racing): From the Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord to the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Uptown Charlotte, the presence of NASCAR is synonymous with Charlotte and for good reason. Racing started here back in 1949 and since then, NASCAR has found a home for not only its many series of races but its fan favorite events, like the Circle K Speed Street 600 Festival which takes over Uptown streets for a weekend of festivities and free concerts each year in celebration of May’s Coca Cola 600 race. 

5. Charlotte Checkers (Hockey): The original Charlotte Checkers assembled in the late 1950s and the team we all know and love today made the Bojangles Coliseum their permanent home in 2015. After gaining momentum for four consecutive seasons, the Checkers became champions after winning the Calder Cup in 2019. Be sure to catch the defending champions in action and check out one of the team’s fun promotional nights like Teacher Appreciation Night, College Night and Star Wars Night.

6. Charlotte FC (Soccer): The newest addition to Charlotte’s professional sports roster, Charlotte FC, will begin their inaugural season on March 5th, 2022. With his second sports team purchase, Panthers owner David Tepper was awarded the 30th Major League Soccer (MLS) expansion franchise in 2019. The crown on the team crest pays homage to the Queen City’s namesake Queen Charlotte, and each of the crown’s four spires signify the four wards of Uptown Charlotte.

4. #Lake Life: Living on the lake is living a resort like lifestyle. Lets face it life is better on the lake. There are 3 main lakes in Charlotte NC: Lake Norman, Lake Wylie and Mountain Island Lake. There are others lakes in the area but just not as close: Lake Hickory, Lake Badin, Lake Tillery and High Rock Lake to name a few. Whether you live on the lake, near the lake, or have a 2nd home on the lake, Charlotte offers many opportunities to enjoy the lake life. Enjoy skiing, wakeboarding, fishing, or just relaxing on the boat with your family and friends. All this will be at your fingertips when you call the Charlotte NC area home. 

3. The Food in Charlotte NC 

 I moved to the greater Charlotte NC area when I was 3 years old.  So, I am practically born and raised here. I will be the first to admit that, in the past, Charlotte NC has not been known for their food scene. 10 years ago Chain restaurants ruled over the Charlotte area. However, that has quickly changed! 

Charlotte has spent the last few years quietly revitalizing its culinary scene to become a much more vibrant place, with neighborhood based culinary scenes that highlight global diversity. From drive-thru mainstays that have weathered decades to the finest dining rooms and the latest culinary concepts, talented chefs are at the helm, keeping us hungry for more. In 2022 the Queen City was just named among the seven most exciting up and coming big cities for food.

At the heart of the growing Charlotte food scene is a robust beer brewing culture. Hefty plates and food trucks parked outside breweries keep social life rocking. The NASCAR Hall of Fame, Levine Center for the Arts, and Discovery Place nature center are just a few of the many hot spots that ensure restaurants have families, tourists, and locals to feed. To learn more about the man who revitalized craft beer in Charlotte, John Marino (Owner of Olde Mecklenburg Brewery), click here.

So for you foodies out there, you will be excited to watch the Charlotte food scene flourish into one of the best in the nation!

4. The Weather in Charlotte NC

One thing that residents love is that we experience all four seasons here in Charlotte NC.  Carolina blue skies can be seen year round in Charlotte. With an annual average temperature of 61.5 degrees and the annual average precipitation of 43 inches distributed evenly throughout the year, weather in the Queen City is fair and mild. Winter is welcoming, spring and fall are transformative, and summer is sunny and bright.

With that being said, Charlotte NC does experience a few snow days every year. Charlotte NC can also experience some tornadoes or tropical storms, usually coming from the hurricanes coming from the coastal cities. However, they are much less severe by the time they reach us!

• • • Winter: Mild winters are one of the perks of living in the South, but cold weather finds its way to Charlotte a few times each season accounting for an average accumulation of six inches of snow per year. Only about half of the winter days fall below freezing making a friendly forecast for a wintertime trip.
    • Spring: The slow emergence of spring is one of the most breathtaking times of the year. The soft white, pink and yellow of flowers blooming in the city stands out among the sprouting greenery and blue skies. Although the season begins with an average rainfall of 4.4 inches in March, rising temperatures and clear spring days continue throughout May

    • Summer: Clear skies and warm weather lure Charlotteans outdoors during the summer months, but the bright sun calls for sunscreen and breathable, light attire. Scorchers in July and August bring temperatures to the upper 80s for about 40 days of the season. The average summer temperatures are in the upper 70s with an average daily range of 20 degrees.

    •  Fall: The changing leaves of autumn in Charlotte’s dense tree canopy provide a stunning backdrop for the city skyline. Mild temperatures in the 60s stick around throughout fall and encourage people to enjoy the outdoors as the days grow shorter, especially tailgaters and grillers getting ready for a big game. 

5.  Where you live in Charlotte NC MATTERS

What’s considered the Charlotte NC area is a large geographic location. Every area has their own lifestyle, vibe, pros, and cons. You can find every type of lifestyle available, there’s something for everyone! Here are a few different types of areas and lifestyles offered in the Charlotte NC area: 

1. City Living: If you like to be “where the action is” then you want to live near uptown. Uptown is split into 4 different wards, all offering a different lifestyle. However, many choose to live in one of the surrounding burrows (right outside of I-277). Every burrow around Charlotte has their own vibe, culture, and appeal. Be sure to check out Plaza Midwood, Dilworth, and NoDa. Condo’s and townhomes are usually the way to go in these areas, as you will pay a higher value for more space, more yard, and a single family home. The true appeal though, is being in the middle of it all!

2. Neighborhoods around Charlotte NC: If you go a little farther out from uptown you are able to find some older, more established neighborhoods, that offer a bit more space. For example, you have Foxcroft and  Myers Park . You’re still close to everything Charlotte has to offer, but you have a little more space 

3. Suburb Living: If you go farther outside Charlotte city center, you will find many great communities and neighborhoods. They range from older homes to new construction and from smaller communities to larger master planned communities.  Some great communities to check out are The Palisades , Piper Glen, Ballantyne and Highland Creek.

4. Lake Living: Many residents love taking advantage of the beautiful Lakes surrounding Charlotte. There are some fantastic lake communities in the greater Charlotte area. However, living near the lake means you will be a bit farther out from Charlotte. You can be anywhere from 30-45 minutes up to an hour away from Charlotte city center (depending on where you end up living). However, there is a strong appeal to take advantage of the lifestyle that the lake lends its residents.  

You can live on the water, with your own private dock, or you can live in a lake community that offers deeded slips or access to the water. There are also numerous public access points and boat storage locations, allowing anyone to take advantage of the lake. If you’re looking on Lake Wylie be sure to check out River Hills and Tega Cay. If you’re looking on Mountain Island Lake you will want to visit Mt Isle Harbor or Overlook. If you have your eye on Lake Norman, be sure to take a look at Davidson and Cornelius. 

5. Small Town’s: The greater Charlotte area is surrounded by many small towns that offer that ‘Main Street’ vibe. Many of these towns formed around old textile mills and have a downtown street where shops are located. When the textile mills closed down, many of these towns started to deteriorate as well. However, over the past few decades, these towns have been given a breath of fresh air. They have revitalized into super cool towns offering trendy restaurants, shops and fun for the entire family. One great aspect of these towns is they are great for walkability.

These towns usually offer a variety of housing options, near downtown, and in some surrounding communities. The commute varies depending on the town you’re considering, however they can range from 20 min to 1 hr away from Charlotte city center. Some of our favorite town’s are Matthews, Fort Mill, Belmont, and Waxhaw. 

4. Rural Living: Do you yearn for the country side? A bit of space from your neighbors? Well you’re in luck! Many residents choose to work in/near Charlotte and commute to the countryside. If you go an hour outside the greater Charlotte area you can find a more rural lifestyle. All while giving you relative access to the Charlotte area.  

There’s a large variety of housing and lifestyle options offered in the greater Charlotte area. So if you are thinking about making a move and have any questions about what area may be best for you and your family, please reach out to us today! We would love to help guide you to the perfect spot. Click Here to view available homes in the greater Charlotte area!

6. Traffic in Charlotte NC 

Charlotte NC has seen unprecedented growth over the past decade, and the infrastructure is still working to catch up. So, one thing you want to consider, especially when choosing what part of Charlotte you’ll call home, is the traffic. The Charlotte area can get congested, especially during ‘rush hour.’

On a positive note, Charlotte’s local government is keenly aware of the traffic issue. They are diligently working to catch Charlotte’s infrastructure up with the growth we have seen in the area. A few toll roads have recently been installed to help with traffic during rush hour. They’re working to expand the interstates, and Charlotte has a public light rail system that they continuously expand farther and farther out.

7. The Job Market in Charlotte NC

For the past few decades Charlotte NC has been known as a banking capital with some of the major banks having headquarters here like Bank of America and Truist. However, over the past couple of years Charlotte NC has been able to attract a diverse array of businesses to the area. As more highly educated millennials move to Charlotte NC and local startups grow, Charlotte’s identity is slowly morphing into the silicon valley of the east. Charlotte NC was even recently ranked as the #1 ‘Tech Town’ in America by CompTIA. 

But that’s not all, Charlotte has been able to attract financial, automotive, manufacturing, and medical companies as well. Charlotte’s job market has a diverse and robust future! This will only fuel the growth we see in the area.  

We hope you found the information above useful in your decision to call the Charlotte area Home!

Charlotte NC is already a well established city and its growth is just beginning up. There’s over 100 people moving to the area every single day, and now you can see why! The great thing is that Charlotte has something for everyone, no matter what lifestyle you’re looking for, there’s something here for you!  

If you are looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate here in the Greater Charlotte area, myself and my team would love to be your real estate resource of choice. Please feel free to call, text, email, or contact us below! We would love to be able to help navigate your real estate goals!

Contact us through:

📱Call/Text Direct (704)-631-3977

📧Email: info@thefinigangroup.com