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

 

Elizabeth

Home to the main campus of Central Piedmont Community College as well as 2 major hospital facilities (Presbyterian & Mercy)  and located within sight of Uptown there’s lots to love about the Elizabeth neighborhood.

Many of the homes and businesses in the area are located in older buildings giving the community a lot of historical character and charm.  The neighborhood is fairly pedestrian friendly with ample sidewalks and access to the Little Sugar Creek Parkway.

Popular for its eclectic mix of restaurants, pubs & music venues as well as for its quaint and quirky housing choices Elizabeth is a great choice for anyone searching for a more city lifestyle.  Many homes in this area are older properties which have been renovated although there are some pockets of new, as well as older townhomes and condos.

Condos (1bed or smaller 2bed) can be found in the high $100s but single family homes in this area start in the high $300s.  Demand is high so if you’re looking for a home in this popular area be prepared to be patient and ready to jump when properties come to market.  

 

Davidson

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!