Charlotte, NC vs. Concord, NC: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Charlotte vs Concord. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Charlotte vs Concord in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how Charlotte and Concord compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Charlotte | Concord |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,800 | $1,400 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $380,000 |
🏆 Winner: Concord. Housing costs are around 20% lower in Concord compared to Charlotte.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills can add up quickly. Here’s what you can expect to pay monthly in Charlotte vs Concord:
- Charlotte: $180 (summer), $120 (winter)
- Concord: $150 (summer), $100 (winter)
Both cities offer off-peak energy plans that can help lower costs. Concord’s milder climate means less AC usage in summer months.
🏆 Winner: Concord. Expect utility bills to be around 15% lower than Charlotte.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Weekly grocery and dining out costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Budget around $125 per person for groceries in either Charlotte or Concord.
Restaurant prices are comparable, although Charlotte has a wider variety of high-end options downtown. A meal for two averages $50-60 in either city.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and dining costs are nearly identical.
4. Taxes and Fees
Mecklenburg County (Charlotte) has a slightly higher property tax rate of 1.29% vs Cabarrus County (Concord) at 1.19%. For a $400K home, that’s a difference of about $400 per year.
In Charlotte, HOA fees often include amenities like pools and fitness centers. Concord HOAs tend to be more basic, covering mainly exterior maintenance and landscaping.
🏆 Winner: Concord. Lower property taxes can add up to meaningful savings over time.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Charlotte | Concord |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,800 | $1,400 |
| Utilities | $150 | $125 |
| Groceries | $500 | $500 |
| Transportation | $130 | $140 |
| Taxes | $485 | $450 |
| Misc | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,315 | $2,865 |
*Based on a $400K home for a family of four. Income figures are pre-tax (gross) monthly amounts.
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Concord offers savings, Charlotte provides more urban amenities and job opportunities. Consider these lifestyle factors:
- Charlotte has more public transportation and walkable neighborhoods
- Concord offers more space and lower-density suburban living
- Charlotte’s population is 3X larger than Concord
- Concord is 30 minutes northeast of Uptown Charlotte
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Is Charlotte more affordable than Concord?
No, Concord has a lower overall cost of living, mainly due to cheaper housing, utilities, and property taxes.
Which city has lower rent?
Concord’s rental rates are around 20% lower than comparable apartments in Charlotte.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Concord’s median home price is about $70,000 less than Charlotte for a similar-sized house.
8. Conclusion
Concord offers meaningful cost of living savings compared to Charlotte, especially for housing and taxes. It’s a great fit for families or anyone seeking a quieter suburban lifestyle.
However, Charlotte’s higher costs come with benefits like a thriving job market, diverse neighborhoods, and big-city amenities. It’s ideal for young professionals and those who prefer urban living.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and priorities. Be sure to check out our other cost of living guides for Charlotte and sample monthly budgets to inform your decision. With some planning, you can find the perfect fit for your next chapter in the Charlotte metro area.