It will get there in due time, it just hasnt reached that point yet. Higher education is a significant factor when deciding where to live. If you dont work in finance or tech, your job opportunities could be slim. When I say that the city has a respiratory problem, I mean that the citys air quality is not the best. For many people Charlotte, NC is a city of possibilities and opportunities at a low cost of living. There are many areas where you can live in Charlotte, NC which means that there are also many areas where you can go. With a median salary greater than the U.S. average and an unemployment rate of 4.9% in 2017, Charlotte has an appealing job market that draws in professionals from all over the nation. You can live in Charlotte for a lot less than you can a lot of other major cities. People are friendly but reserved. What is the average home price in High Point NC? The sales tax rate in North Carolina is 4.75% across the state, although county and local taxes can add to it. Another perk of living in Charlotte is the low cost of living compared to other large cities. From strict leases to unfurnished spaces, searching for a Charlotte apartment can be tricky when youre on a time crunch. It later progresses and discusses the ups and downs of living in this iconic city. Theres even a pray on the move bus that drives around town to make sure nobody is left out of their church on Sunday morning. Having a growing melting pot of diversity, creativity and southern charm, an abundance of beautiful parks and nature, while also hosting metropolitan skyscrapers, its no wonder why people love the city of Charlotte! While Charlotte won't win any awards for 'cheapest American city,' our cost of living is affordable. One of the drawbacks to living in North Carolina is that income and sales taxes are high. Despite the large population size, there are very few immigrants from different countries that make up the citys culture. It is also a Gamma+ global city. The growth is twice the rate of growth seen by most cities in the country. If you want to go for a swim in the ocean, the closest option is Myrtle Beach at 3 and a half hours away in South Carolina. Myrtle Beach is about three hours away. Its a melting pot thats still melting and mixing, combining cultures as it tries to find its own definition. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'combadi_com-leader-4','ezslot_16',105,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-combadi_com-leader-4-0'); Here, you can find cultures and immigrants from different nations. These areas, Introduction As the largest city in the state of Florida, Tampa has a variety of, Introduction Affluent black neighborhoods In Philadelphia can be found in the citys northwest and southwest, Copyright 2023 States Explora | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme, Interesting & famous things Arizona State is known for, 8 Good and Bad things about living in Alabama, 8 Best and worst things about living in Philadelphia, Pros and cons of living in cedar city utah | 2023, 13 Most affluent black neighborhoods in Dallas Texas, 10 Most affluent black neighborhoods in Tampa Florida, 12 Most affluent black neighborhoods in Philadelphia (2023), Why is Louisiana so poor? You could look into podcasts or playlists of your favourite artists as your time in your car might increase if you move here. Thankfully, I was able to avoid hitting any pedestrians or cars and maintain control of my vehicle until I got off the road. #62 in Best Places to Retire. It means that there are enough opportunities here. 1. One time, I had a driver pull up next to me and throw what appeared to be a beer at my car window, causing me to swerve onto the shoulder. When you compare the Charlotte vs Raleigh cost of living, you'll find the following major differences. The cost of transportation is cheap in Charlotte. You'll find that Charlotte is very clean on average, this is mostly due to the fact it is a "newer" city and a lot of the growth is very recent. Outdoor recreation in Charlotte is plentiful and varied. The same story is valid with the cost of food and groceries, which is 0.8% more affordable than the national average. Here are seven things to know. With a still growing population diversity and a median age of 34, Charlotte was ranked the most diverse city in North Carolina at the start of 2020 and the population is currently as follows: I agree to receive FREE real estate advice. Here are the cities and towns in North Carolina that have the highest number of properties at risk of flooding. What I can assure you about Charlotte is its job growth. Other than an old mall with little to no stores and two bowling alleys, children in Port Charlotte do not have much to do. Job growth overall has been at 2% since 2010, which compares favorably with Detroit at 0% or St. Louis at 1%. 11. The worst thing about living in Charlotte is the congestion. Charlotte is also cheaper than the US national average in terms of utilities. Related Article // 8 Best and worst things about living in Philadelphia. The Civil War brought both Union troops and freed slaves to the area. For those looking to relive Civil War battles, Historic Rosedale Plantation offers tours showing off its restored buildings along with interactive activities like blacksmithing demonstrations. Furthermore, in March of 2020 the numbers kept growing. First, the unemployment rate here is lower than the national average. Insider came up with a list of the worst things about living in each state, with flaws ranging from minor ones like "too many hipsters," to major ones like "a high range of drug overdoses." The . If you love food, the influences of the South are vital here. Public Transportation Doesnt Make Life In Charlotte Any Easier. A considerable number of investing companies can only mean growth in its economy and finances. It also stops running at midnight, making it difficult to travel from one part of the city to another after dark. Established in 1768 by Queen Charlotte, this city has grown to become the largest city in North Carolina and the second-largest banking center in the United States.. From its roots as a small trading post known as "Charlotte Town" to its modern-day status . Additionally, there is a noticeable lack of ethnic restaurants and activities that appeal to more than one racial group or ethnicity. Foliage schmoliage. Also, the city is home to about six Fortune 500 companies, all providing residents with stable jobs. For those who like to support small businesses and makers, there are dozens of artisan markets and craft fairs throughout the year where you can find handmade goods that have been crafted with love by local artisans. Charlotte Living Is Cheap. Low cost of living and economic opportunity. In the summer youll want to go to the beach with temperatures between 57 and 90 degrees. There are football, basketball, and hockey teams here. You should try to visit there sometime. But before you start to backtrack because of this, do take into consideration the fact that Charlotte is the largest city in North Carolina when it comes to population. Its not unusual to spend an hour or more on a commute from one side of the city to the other, and thats only if youre lucky enough to find a lane thats moving at all. However, it can be on certain occasions. About 15 percent of West Virginias population, by comparison, has food insecurity. Hello there and welcome to our website! Whether youre coming from New York in search of a more peaceful community or youre moving from Salisbury, NC seeking a job in financial services, Charlotte is the perfect mix to make everyone feel confident that they found exactly what they are looking for. Asian: 6.54%. However, if you are moving from major cities like New York or Chicago, the traffic in Charlotte is regular. Charlotte is only cheaper than most cities in the US by about 1.7% when it comes to utility costs. The city has grown and grown, with an influx of people moving to the area every day. Gas prices are typically higher than in other major cities such as Chicago. The cost of housing is cheaper than the national average. Charlotte has a rich and vibrant history that is full of interesting stories and facts. The Annual Report of the South Carolina Housing Market compiled by South Carolina Realtors found closed sales increased 4% in 2019 to 91,140, while new listings increased 4% to 120,210. The cost of housing is cheaper than the national average. It means that the air can be unhealthy and polluted. Employers in Charlotte, NC typically pay 2.8% more than employeers in Orlando, FL. Its population is still growing having surpassed 873,000 residents as of 2018 which is also the reason why the city is constantly changing and reinventing itself. The growing number of people in Charlotte means one thing. In addition to these major employers, there are countless small businesses and start-ups that help create an environment ripe for economic success. When you compare Charlotte with the national average, it is about 1.1% lower. Woodruff 3-Tier Round Serving Tray 19"x30" by A&B Home (7) $98. It's not terrible. Pro: Good education. Traffic congestion can be problematic in the downtown area and key access points. Charlotte offers an abundance of opportunities to experience visual art, music, theater, dance, and more. Charlotte residents share what it's like navigating eating at restaurants while living with an allergy to peanuts, tree nuts, egg, milk or other food allergens and having to carry an epi pen . The largest universities are the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (in 2017, 7,158 degrees were awarded), Central Piedmont Community College (2,997 degrees), and Queens University of Charlotte (705 degrees) . Giants like Bank of America, Lowes, and the US Trust and Compass Group have their bases in Charlotte. The most populous city of North Carolina, Charlotte is also the county seat for the county of Mecklenburg. It is where NASCAR is. Whether youve recently moved to Charlotte or have been living in the area for years, you might not be aware of some of the bad things about Charlotte NC that exist. Those looking for a mild climate may want to look elsewhere as storms are not uncommon during the summer months with hail being a regular occurrence when thunderstorms roll through. Nightlife. However, like every city, Charlotte has its own set of perks and challenges that a future resident should be aware of. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. You cant visit this southern jewel without learning about moonshine, NASCAR and the Fury325. The city rarely reaches temperatures below freezing, but a Charlotte resident will still experience the benefits of seasonal changes: Summers tend to be hot, but North Carolinas location offers more reasonable weather compared to more southern areas of the country. Drivers are prone to road rage and they will do anything to get revenge on someone who cut them off. This can make it difficult for those who rely on public transportation to get around town or commute from one side of the city to another. The soil in and around Charlotte makes it challenging to grow a garden. Cons of Living in Greenville SC. / Your email address will not be published. Its gonna be hot and humid in July and August so invest in an AC and get a pool membership. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'combadi_com-banner-1','ezslot_6',125,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-combadi_com-banner-1-0');Plus, the cost of living here is lower than the national average. flickr/John Rees. Notable neighborhoods. Charlotte is a great place to live, with friendly people and a thriving economy. State: North Carolina County: Mecklenburg County Metro Area: Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia Metro Area City: Charlotte Zip Codes: 28269 , 28277 , 28215 , 28227 , 28216 , 28210 , 28205 , 28212 , 28262 , 28213 , 27 total Cost of Living: -0.3% lower Time zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST) Elevation: 769 ft above sea level There was a jump of over 13,000 new residents between 2017 and 2018. The city has been consistently ranked among the top cities with the worst traffic in the US over the past few years and continues to experience rapid population growth. If youre looking for something new, try taking an art class or going out to eat at one of our local restaurants. However, before you decide to move here, let me get a few things straight. Why Should You Get Onboard the Digital Marketing Bandwagon? As one of the largest cities in North Carolina, Charlotte is home to hundreds of delicious and unique eateries. The housing market in the city of Charlotte is thriving, excelling, and managing to overcome the citys crime rates. South Charlotte is always red because its more upper class. I am so glad to see a fellow traveler. There is a dark side concerning taxes in South Carolina: Sales taxes. Because of the acceptable traffic it may not seem like a lot but the miles will add up in time. Sports. It will be hot in July and August. Compared to other cities, we have very few cultural outlets and there are only so many football games you can attend. I mean, the brilliantly beautiful changing leaves are alright. The only downside is that theyre almost always crowded, which can make it difficult to find a seat and get your order in within the first few minutes of opening. Niche, a tool that helps new residents find excellent schools, gives the Charlotte metropolitan area a B+ in the public school category, which is significantly higher than many other large U.S. cities. Cost of Living in Charlotte, North Carolina. So, lets see what the Queen city is all about, shall we? According to Zillow, the average home value in Greenville is about $230,000, which is up about 9% since last year. In February of 2020 there were 4,700 new homes listed on the market, an increase of 2.2% since Feb. 2019, also there were 4,900 pending sales for homes which is also an increase of 24.8% since Feb 2019 and the median home price went to $263,000, an increase still of 11.9% since February of 2019. Here, there is always something going on every day. Strong winds from hurricanes or other storm systems can cause property damage and power outages that last for days or even weeks at a time. Charlotte is a major hub for big-name corporations and as a result, has one of the highest rates of cost of living. Before moving to Charlotte, let's get you acquainted with its charm by noting these main selling points and areas of interest. Unfortunately, the southeastern coast of the United States is prone to many natural disasters. Charlotte has the third-largest banking center in the US, and its home to the headquarters of Bank of America, the nations second-largest bank. (8 Main Reasons), Why is Kentucky so poor? Port Charlotte, located in southwest Florida, is a small and quiet town. The hot and humid summers in Charlotte can reach temperatures up to 100 degrees with high humidity making it hard to stay cool. Those are relatively close as well, it all depends on what you want for your weekend. We have beautiful scenery, friendly people, an awesome culture, and great food! It can also be short. One thing that could be improved on is the lack of rich cultural roots. You can't drive 10 miles in the Charlotte area without going by a golf course. To name just a few. This makes it difficult to save up enough money for future goals or emergencies. For example, the state income tax maxes out at 7.75% for people who make less than $24,000 per year. It can be hot on certain occasions, but it can never be too hot. She currently lives in Salem, Massachusetts, with her partner and dog, Arlo, but relishes any opportunity she can to travel so she can try new foods, see gorgeous sights, and daydream about living somewhere new after visiting there for less than 24 hours. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'combadi_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_12',136,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-combadi_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0');If you want the mountains, it is about a couple of hours away by car to Asheville. While the overall cost of living remains relatively low, housing prices in Greenville have been increasing at a higher rate. Charlottes downtown has a maze of one-way streets and confusing intersections, making it hard to find your way around. 8. The astounding lack of both character and culture in Charlotte is confusing, but it makes finding those hidden gems that much better. During this time, visitors cant enter the park and there are no services available inside. Today, the state is home to the second largest banking capital in the U.S., behind only New York City, top notch universities and 11 Fortune 500 companies. Currently, in Charlotte, North Carolina, the average gallon of milk costs $1.82, a loaf of bread $3.12. Going out to restaurants may cost you more, but it probably won't break your budget. Even if it is still considered a new city, Charlotte has had its fair share of history, some that even placed it in the history books of the nation. Here's why. 13. Charlotte is an ideal place to raise a family. Here's an idea of how much things cost when moving to Charlotte, as reported by Payscale: Energy bill: $153.91. They are also not accustomed to visitors and might treat you with suspicion if theyve never seen you before. When you start living in Charlotte, religion is a way of life. From museums to battlegrounds, Charlotte has a wide range of historical sites that make it one of the most interesting cities in America. No One Is Actually From Charlotte. And as the city grows, it is becoming more diverse. North Carolina is an amazing state to live in. Browse our available apartments in Charlotte today. The same is valid with food and groceries, utilities, and transportation. If youre planning on moving to the Charlotte area, youll want to take the proper safety precautions for the following weather events: That being said, Charlotte is certainly not a bad place to live in terms of weather. You can come here, decide what you want to do with your life and find your path. 2. And not just by a little bit: renters can expect to pay almost $400 more than what they would in other cities around the country. Downtown Is Called Uptown. The cost of living in Charlotte averages about 1% lower than the national average. You can move here and decide how to move forward with your life. Like most cities, Charlotte has a variety of neighborhoods in different parts of the city and each has its own unique feel. The housing prices have been on a constant climb. CHARLOTTE, NC North Carolina has a diverse landscape of mountains, cities and 300 miles of beautiful Atlantic shoreline. If you adore the ocean, you can have it close to you. 7. Keeping to the trend so far, Clanton Park-Roseland ranks as the number 8 worst spot in Charlotte for 2022 because of its economy. The city, beautiful and just east of the Catawba River, is a great place to live. Don't let the seemingly high crime rate in Charlotte, NC scare you. We have the USNWC and lots of hikes within a reasonable distance. Good news, though: houses are cheap. As we already noted, in Charlotte you get access to both the beach and mountains. Charlotte is a city of many outdoor and indoor activities.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'combadi_com-narrow-sky-1','ezslot_20',140,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-combadi_com-narrow-sky-1-0'); if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'combadi_com-leader-2','ezslot_13',142,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-combadi_com-leader-2-0');There is no time for boredom to foster here. Unlike places like New York or Miami, bars and nightclubs close a bit earlier in Charlotteusually around midnight, but occasionally as late as 2 a.m. That being said, downtown Charlotte is home to a few local hotspots and sports bars. Weather. The city boasts one of the fastest growing economies in the U.S., with many Fortune 500 companies headquartered or operating here, from Bank of America to Wells Fargo to Lowes Home Improvement Stores and more. It is never too hot. And I assure you, no sign of the growth stopping anytime soon. It could be because with the growth of population comes the growing number of cars. The cost of living in Charlotte averages about 1% lower than the national average. There are 739 violent crimes/100k people and 3,926 property crimes/100k people. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'combadi_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_18',129,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-combadi_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0');Diversity has always been in the veins of Charlotte. Find a Yoga class, a festival, explore the culinary diversity, go hiking with friends or catch a match at the Bank of America Stadium or at a bar.