With a population of just under 900,000, Charlotte is the largest city in the state of North Carolina and a bustling economic and cultural hub. The city’s diverse job market and entertainment options bring thousands of new residents each year. There are numerous reasons why large corporations such as Bank of America and Duke Energy call Charlotte home. Just like any southern city, this southern metropolitan has its pros and cons when you’re a full-time resident.
Pros of Living in Charlotte
An Abundance of High-Paying Jobs
Charlotte has a strong job market for both white and blue-collar workers. The dominating industries in the city are financial services, energy, information technology, and aerospace and defense. According to PayScale, the average salary in Charlotte is $65,000. That salary can go a long way in a southern city with an affordable cost of living.
Low Housing Prices
The price of townhomes and houses in desirable areas of Charlotte fall between $150,000 and $350,000. Whether you’re seeking an urban loft or house in one of Charlotte’s many suburbs, the Charlotte real estate market is bound to have something that will meet your budget. No matter where you decide to move to the city, Charlotte moving companies are ready to help.
Mild Winters
If you’re moving from the Midwest or New England, you can say goodbye to frigid and icy winters. In Charlotte’s coldest month, January, the average daily high stays around 51 degrees Fahrenheit. While it still snows in Charlotte, the city only sees around 2 inches each year.
Entertainment Galore
Many people flock to Charlotte for its numerous entertainment options. The city is full of live music venues, nightclubs, and shopping malls and outlets. When it comes to sports, you’re in luck – Charlotte is home to the Caroline Panthers and the Charlotte Hornets. The city also hosts annual NASCAR and golf championships.
Read: How to Prepare Your Lawn for Spring
Cons of Living in Charlotte
Hot and Humid Summers
Like most cities in the south, Charlotte gets its fair share of muggy and hot days during the summer. In July, the city’s hottest month, the average high is around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the average relative humidity of 72% can make the city feel much hotter in the summer months.
Big City Traffic
Many Charlotteans complain about the growing traffic problem in the city. Most residents drive their own vehicles to work, meaning you’ll run into frequent traffic jams during the rush hour. If you live outside the city in one of the suburbs, your daily commute could surpass 30 minutes.
Rising Real Estate Property Taxes
In Charlotte, real estate property taxes are assessed based on a percentage of the property’s value. This value is subject to frequent reassessments. Property reevaluations by the county of Mecklenburg county have led to residents paying more in taxes each year. In addition to real estate property taxes, residents of Mecklenburg county must pay a personal property and registered motor vehicle tax on top of vehicle registration.
With its mild winters, entertainment options, and strong economy, it’s no wonder thousands of people decide to move to the Charlotte metropolitan area each year. While the pros certainly outweigh the cons, it’s important to learn all you can about this southern city before making the big move.
