Wave Of Charlotteans Moving To Surrounding Cities

CHARLOTTE, NC — We are living in one of the fastest-growing areas of the country and the Census data proves it. From July 1, 2022, to July 1, 2023, about 53 people moved to Mecklenburg County each day. With the expansion, comes a growing economy and growing pains.

Growth in South End

Maybe the best representation of Charlotte’s substantial growth in the last decade is in South End. Waves of young professionals, new businesses, and endless construction have transformed the area.

Corey Correll, the Economic Research Specialist for the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, shared that many out-of-towners are heading south from the Northeast. “Around 6,000 or so annually are coming from New York,” said Correll.

Moving to Surrounding Cities

David Digioia, a realtor in the Charlotte area for 20 years, has noticed a wave of residents moving to cities outside of Charlotte like Huntersville, Davidson, and Mooresville to find more affordable housing options. “These are all people who have been in Charlotte for a long time, and now they can’t afford what they want,” explained Digioia.

Concerns for a Growing Metropolitan

Affordable housing and crowded roads are top concerns for the growing population in Charlotte. Digioia pointed out that congestion is not just limited to the roads. “The congestion that we’re seeing, if you just go shopping in the stores, restaurants, it now takes an hour and a half to get a reservation or to go to the local restaurant. And that wasn’t like that ten, 12 years ago,” said Digioia.

Population Increase in Mecklenburg County

From the start of the pandemic until July 2023, Mecklenburg County added 48,167 residents, reflecting a 4% population increase.

As Charlotte continues to grow, many residents are seeking opportunities in the surrounding cities to find affordable housing and a less congested lifestyle.

Stay tuned for more updates on the shifting demographics and growth trends in the Charlotte metropolitan area.