Thinking About Moving to Matthews, NC

📍 Matthews, NC at a Glance

• Population: 33,015
• Location: Southeast Charlotte suburb, 12 miles from uptown Charlotte
• Incorporated: 1879
• Known For: Historic downtown, family-friendly atmosphere, annual Matthews Alive Festival

🗳️ Politics & Civic Life

Matthews maintains a balanced political landscape with active civic engagement. The town council operates on a non-partisan basis, focusing on community development and quality of life improvements. Residents participate actively in town meetings and community planning sessions.

🚓 Crime & Safety

Matthews consistently ranks as one of the safest communities in the Charlotte metro area. The Matthews Police Department maintains strong community relationships through neighborhood watch programs and regular community events. Property crime rates remain well below state averages.

🍽️ Dining & Entertainment

Downtown Matthews offers diverse dining options including Brakeman’s Coffee & Supply, Seaboard Brewing Company, and Thai Taste. The historic downtown hosts regular events like Food Truck Fridays and the weekly farmers market. Nearby shopping at Matthews Festival and Sycamore Commons provides additional entertainment options.

🏛️ Local Government

Matthews operates under a council-manager form of government with an elected mayor and board of commissioners. The town provides excellent municipal services including its own police department, parks and recreation, and planning departments while contracting with Charlotte for water and sewer services.

🚍 Transportation

While Matthews is primarily car-dependent, its proximity to I-485 and Highway 74 provides easy access throughout the Charlotte region. CATS bus routes connect Matthews to the LYNX Blue Line light rail system. The town is actively developing pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure in the downtown area.

🏘️ Housing & Real Estate

Matthews offers diverse housing options from historic homes near downtown to new construction in master-planned communities. The median home price hovers around $425,000, with options ranging from townhomes to estate properties. Popular neighborhoods include Brightmoor, Matthews Plantation, and Downtown Matthews.

🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life

The town maintains over 200 acres of parks including Squirrel Lake Park, Stumptown Park, and Four Mile Creek Greenway. Matthews Community Center offers fitness facilities, sports leagues, and community programs. The nearby U.S. National Whitewater Center provides world-class outdoor recreation just 20 minutes away.

💼 Job Market

With a median household income of $88,500, Matthews residents benefit from Charlotte’s robust job market. Major employers include Novant Health Matthews Medical Center, Harris Teeter corporate offices, and Family Dollar headquarters. Many residents commute to Charlotte’s banking, healthcare, and technology sectors.

🧑‍🏫 Education

Matthews is served by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools with highly-rated options like Matthews Elementary and Butler High School. Private schools include Christ the King Catholic High School and Matthews Christian Academy. Union County schools in nearby Weddington offer additional top-rated public school options.

🌞 Climate & Weather

Matthews enjoys a moderate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid with highs in the upper 80s, 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 Matthews for its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and small-town feel despite proximity to Charlotte. The walkable downtown, community events, and family-friendly atmosphere consistently earn high marks. Some note traffic congestion during peak hours as the primary drawback.

✨ Why People Are Moving to Matthews

Matthews attracts families and professionals seeking the perfect balance of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility. With top-rated schools, safe neighborhoods, a charming historic downtown, and easy access to Charlotte’s job market and amenities, Matthews offers an exceptional quality of life that continues to draw new residents looking for their ideal Carolina home.