My wife and I moved to Charlotte, NC, about a year ago from Tulsa, OK. When we first arrived, we didn’t know much about the city, so we got to know it by going out and exploring different areas. That was a lot of fun, but if you’re looking for a place that suits you right away or planning to buy a home, having a bit of guidance can go a long way. Here’s some helpful info we picked up along the way.

If you want to live close to Uptown – maybe because you work there or love having lots of options for dining, bars, coffee shops, and more – consider areas like NoDa, Plaza Midwood, South End, Villa Heights, and Optimist Park. Each of these neighborhoods offers a unique vibe, but they all have that lively, walkable feel.
For a more suburban lifestyle, here are some great options. My personal favorite (and where I currently live) is Belmont, NC, a charming town about 25 minutes from Uptown with excellent restaurants, bars, breweries, and community events. Huntersville, 30 minutes north of Uptown, has a classic suburban feel and is close to Lake Norman, with everything you might need in a quieter setting. Another good choice is Matthews, 25 minutes southeast of Uptown, which has a walkable downtown area with a small selection of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops.
Traffic is something to keep in mind, as Charlotte is growing fast. Heading west on I-85 toward Gastonia or traveling on I-77 can mean some slowdowns. Northbound I-77 has a Quick Pass lane option, though it’s a toll lane with rates that vary based on time and traffic. If you’re moving here from out of town, I recommend scheduling your DMV appointment early to switch your license – we didn’t, and the wait ended up being months long! If you decide to go as a walk-in, get there at least 30 minutes before they open in the morning because they usually only take a few people. The other option is to prepare to wait in the afternoon. Also, keep in mind that the DMV for vehicle tags is at a different location.
If you love easy access to nature, you’ll love it here. Charlotte has parks everywhere, and the U.S. National Whitewater Center is a great spot for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, climbing, kayaking, and zip-lining. If this sounds like your vibe, Belmont is a great place to consider living since it’s close to the Whitewater Center and many other trails and outdoor areas.
Finally, enjoy the city! Charlotte is a fantastic place to live with so much to explore. My wife Cortney and I love the diverse restaurant and bar scene. For example, Yunta in South End is a must-try Peruvian spot with amazing food and a great atmosphere. And for the best cocktails, check out Idlewild in NoDa – they’ve made some of the best drinks I’ve ever had.

Hopefully, this gives you a starting point if you’re thinking of moving to Charlotte. Enjoy discovering the city!

Charlotte, North Carolina

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