Welcome to Concord, NC
Nestled in the heart of North Carolina’s Piedmont region, Concord offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city convenience. Just 20 minutes northeast of Charlotte, this rapidly growing city has transformed from a quiet mill town into a thriving suburban community that attracts families, young professionals, and racing enthusiasts alike. With its rich history, booming economy, and family-friendly atmosphere, Concord provides an ideal setting for those seeking quality of life without sacrificing urban amenities.
📍 Concord, NC at a Glance
- Population: 112,000
- Location: 20 miles northeast of Charlotte in Cabarrus County
- Incorporated: 1796
- Known For: Charlotte Motor Speedway, historic downtown, family-friendly suburbs
🔗 Dive Deeper into Concord
💸 Cost & Budget
🏘️ Housing & Lifestyle
🚍 Utilities & Transportation
🏙️ City Comparisons
🔍 In-Depth Relocation Overview
🗳️ Politics & Civic Life
Concord maintains a balanced political landscape with active civic engagement. The city council operates on a non-partisan basis, focusing on practical governance and community development. Residents participate actively in local government through various boards and commissions, with strong turnout for town halls and community meetings.
🚓 Crime & Safety
Concord enjoys lower crime rates than many comparable cities in North Carolina. The Concord Police Department maintains a strong community presence with neighborhood watch programs and regular community policing initiatives. Most residential areas, particularly newer developments, report very low crime incidents.
🍽️ Dining & Entertainment
The dining scene offers everything from Southern comfort food at Gianni’s Trattoria to upscale dining at The Smoke Pit. Downtown Concord features local favorites like Cabarrus Creamery and Twenty-Five Thirty Restaurant. Entertainment options include Concord Mills mall, one of North Carolina’s largest shopping destinations, and the historic Gem Theatre for live performances.
🏛️ Local Government
Concord operates under a council-manager form of government with a mayor and six council members. The city provides comprehensive services including utilities, parks and recreation, and public safety. City offices are known for their efficiency and resident-friendly approach to permitting and services.
🚍 Transportation
While Concord is primarily car-dependent, the city benefits from excellent highway access via I-85 and US-29. Rider Transit provides local bus service with connections to Charlotte’s CATS system. The Concord-Padgett Regional Airport serves general aviation, while Charlotte Douglas International Airport is just 30 minutes away.
🏘️ Housing & Real Estate
The housing market offers diverse options from historic homes near downtown to new construction in master-planned communities. Median home prices hover around $350,000, making Concord more affordable than Charlotte while offering similar amenities. Popular neighborhoods include Skybrook, Christenbury, and the revitalized downtown district.
🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life
Concord boasts over 900 acres of parks and greenways. Frank Liske Park offers 238 acres with a 10-acre lake, miniature golf, and barn facilities. The Carolina Thread Trail provides miles of walking and biking paths connecting neighborhoods. Les Myers Park features sports complexes and playgrounds perfect for families.
💼 Job Market
The economy thrives with a median household income of $71,000. Major employers include Atrium Health Cabarrus, Cabarrus County Schools, and Charlotte Motor Speedway. The proximity to Charlotte expands job opportunities significantly, with many residents commuting to the Queen City for work in banking, healthcare, and technology sectors.
🧑🏫 Education
Cabarrus County Schools serves the area with highly-rated options like Cox Mill High School and Jay M. Robinson High School. Private schools include Cannon School and Concord First Assembly. Rowan-Cabarrus Community College provides higher education opportunities, while UNC Charlotte is easily accessible for four-year degrees.
🌞 Climate & Weather
Concord enjoys a mild climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid with temperatures in the 80s-90s, while winters are mild with occasional light snow. Spring and fall offer perfect weather for outdoor activities, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage.
💬 Community Sentiment
Residents praise Concord’s family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and small-town feel despite rapid growth. The community takes pride in preserving historic character while embracing progress. Newcomers often mention the welcoming nature of neighbors and the abundance of community events that make it easy to feel at home.
✨ Why People Are Moving to Concord
Concord represents the sweet spot for those seeking suburban comfort with urban accessibility. The combination of top-rated schools, affordable housing compared to Charlotte, and a thriving job market makes it particularly attractive to young families and professionals. Add in the excitement of NASCAR country, a revitalized historic downtown, and genuine Southern hospitality, and it’s clear why Concord continues to be one of North Carolina’s fastest-growing cities. Whether you’re drawn by career opportunities, family considerations, or simply the quality of life, Concord offers a compelling case for calling it home.