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

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

• Matthews Playhouse
  
• Sante Restaurant
  
• Matthews Heritage Museum

Just 20 miles north of Charlotte on the banks of Lake Norman you’ll find Davidson, a quaint college town with its own great character.

Frequently listed as a top town to live in North Carolina - after just one visit you'll understand why.

Downtown is like something out of an old photograph with its traditional storefronts and the red brick campus buildings side by side on the main street.

Highly rated restaurants and small town retailers are plentiful in downtown Davidson - including Kindred, Main Street Books, and The Soda Shop.

Numerous events are held on the Village Green including the very popular Concerts on the Green and Christmas in Davidson.  

Homes near downtown are mostly historical with porches and shade trees but more affordable homes are just a short drive (or bicycle ride) away.

Davidson is very pedestrian and bicycle friendly and many nearby communities are served by sidewalks and greenway access.

Want to live on the lake? There are several lakeside condo communities (and a few lakeside houses) available in Davidson.

Small town atmosphere AND the Lake?  – Win-Win!

• Wood & Stone Gallery
• The Pickled Peach
• Summit Coffee