Locations

Moving or Relocating to Charlotte, NC

Alcove Team · 11/11/21

Moving or Relocating to Charlotte, NC

Charlotte, North Carolina is a city that’s booming in popularity. With an increasing number of transplants and locals, new businesses and entertainment choices, there is something for everyone in Charlotte.

If you are thinking of renting or buying in Charlotte and making this city your home, here is everything that you need to know! 

Cost of living is great

One of the advantages of moving to Charlotte is that you can enjoy lower costs of living, and rooms for rent in Charlotte are traditionally cheaper than other big cities.

For example, you could expect to pay around $1,400 for a one-bedroom apartment in Charlotte. This is cheaper than cities like San Francisco and New York, but slightly above the national average (around $1,200). Still, if you’re moving here from other US cities, it is very affordable! 

Generally, North Carolina is cheaper than other states regarding things like utility bills, eating out, and shopping. It's also got lower business taxes!

Four full seasons to enjoy

The climate of Charlotte is generally mild due to its southern US location. You’ll find that you can often enjoy sunny skies - but be prepared, because it usually rains with no warning in the summer! If you are moving from somewhere like Texas or California, you might find the unpredictable weather a bit of a shock at first. But don't worry, you'll find the winters more mild in the South. 

Make sure that you are always prepared for any weather event, with lots of layers and raincoats when necessary! 

The warmest months are May through September, and it can be very humid during this time (like the sticky, sweaty kind). Of course, it can get cold in the winter months, but there isn’t usually much snow, and the winter doesn't last very long (a good thing, depending on who you talk to).

If you like sport, you’ll love Charlotte


Whatever sports you’re into, you’ll find something to cheer on in Charlotte! The city is famous for the NBA Hornets and NFL Panthers, two renowned North Carolina teams. They've also got the Charlotte Knights (Minor league baseball), and the newly "minted" Charlotte FC, the Carolina's first MLS team.

And if you’re into racing, don’t miss the Charlotte Motor Speedway, where plenty of NASCAR races have been held! 

The food scene is thriving

Charlotte hasn’t always been a foodie city, but its modern culture has seen its food scene improve vastly in recent years. So if you’re a fan of world foods and trying different restaurants, Uptown Charlotte’s got you sorted.

If you want delicious European pastries that are straight out of the oven, head to Amelie’s French Bakery and Cafe. For seafood, visit Lulu’s Maryland Style Chicken & Seafood. 5Church has a sophisticated atmosphere and Lang Van is a famous Vietnamese restaurant! 

Alcove shares perfect places to explore in Queen City, Charlotte

It’s a city alive with history

Charlotte has so much history that is just waiting to be tapped into. Its position in the deep south means it has an extensive history. You can learn all about it at the Levine Museum of the New South, which has a special exhibition on the Civil War. For one, the city got its name because of this:

King George III still ruled the Colonies when European settlers chartered the town back in 1768. They named the new hamlet after the King’s wife, Queen Charlotte, and gave the surrounding county the name Mecklenburg in honor of her majesty’s birthplace in Germany.

There are so many other historical attractions in and around the city too. While you’re living in Charlotte, don’t miss the North Carolina Transport Museum and gold mine state park! 


There are lots of places to work

If you are looking for a job in Charlotte, there are ample opportunities in the banking and technology sectors. Charlotte is notable for being a banking city, with the headquarters of Bank of America and Truist in the city.

There are also many office branches and local businesses to find employment for, including several large Fortune 500 office campuses. So if you don’t already have a job lined up, don’t worry - you’ll likely find something very quickly!

beautiful charlotte, nc skyline is always growing


The best places to live in Charlotte

There are many different neighborhoods in the city, and the best places to live in Charlotte will depend on your tastes, demographics, and budget. Here are some suggestions: 

  • Fourth Ward has historic Victorian homes and modern apartments, ideal for both families and young professionals. 

  • University City is, as the name suggests, popular with college students. It is also where you might work - the neighborhood accommodates a few Fortune 500 campuses. 

  • Elizabeth is a slightly pricier neighborhood which is easy to reach from Uptown.

As the neighborhoods are all slightly different in style, you could rent out a room to see if you like the area before buying. This means that you can experience the city without investing too much money at first - making the move much less scary! 


If you’re looking for rooms for rent in Charlotte, check out our listings in Charlotte. We're sure there's something for you to love.