Matthews

Although it may seem to be a part of Charlotte, Matthews is actually a separate town which was incorporated in 1879.

With a population of about 27,000 Matthews promotes a family atmosphere and benefits from its small town feel despite being located firmly within Mecklenburg county and the larger Charlotte metro area. 

The town has seen growth in small retail and restaurant locations its downtown area due to recent new construction and has numerous options for both.  There's also a very active year round Farmer's Market every Saturday.

Town of Matthews organizes a Summer Concert Series and Food Truck Fridays both at Stumptown Park as well as numerous other community events during the year. 

Homes in Matthews are available across all price ranges.   Many are subdivision homes although there are numerous older homes and more rural homes on larger lots within the town limits.  

Town of Matthews

 

Concord

If you're looking for an easy commute (about 30 mins to Charlotte) popular school district, lower taxes and the added bonus of living near the Charlotte Motor Speedway then Concord may be the place for you!

Easily accessible via I-85 and highway 29 Concord even has its own airport should your commute take you further afield. 

There are plentiful shopping and entertainment opportunities including the highly rated Concord Mills Mall and various motorsports events & venues. 

Dining choices include local favorites and the big chains. 

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The City of Concord extends over a wide area and includes homes in the historic downtown, new suburbs and quieter rural areas. 
Home prices start in the mid $100ks for a single family home. 

City of Concord website.

 

Kannapolis

With a population of 44,000 Kannapolis is a small town but very conveniently located to Charlotte and the Piedmont area.  Originally a mill town the city is now home of the NC Research Campus which was developed as an economic revitalization tool and which dominates the downtown landscape.

Kannapolis boasts its own AAA baseball team, the Intimidators as well as the NC Music Hall of Fame.

Homes in Kannapolis are cheaper than in Charlotte and in neighboring Concord and recent improvements to both I-85 and the completion of I-485 have made the city an attractive option to many seeking a more economical housing option or who enjoy the small-town feel.   You can still buy a smaller single family home for well under $100k in Kannapolis but most properties are older and there are very few townhome/condo opportunities. 

City of Kannapolis