Pros and Cons of Matthews, NC | Living in Matthews North Carolina
Snapshot: Is Matthews Right for You?
Located just 11 miles southeast of Uptown Charlotte, Matthews, North Carolina, blends small-town charm with big-city convenience. In this video, local REALTOR® Steve Jarrell breaks down the biggest advantages of moving to Matthews—along with a few drawbacks you should weigh before packing the moving truck.
Fast Facts at a Glance
| Category | Matthews | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Cost-of-Living Index | 107 | 100 |
| Median Home Price | $365,000 | $235,000 |
| Average 2-Bedroom Rent | $1,600 / mo. | $1,400 / mo. |
| Violent-Crime Rate | 22.6 | 22.7 |
| Property-Crime Rate | 32.0 | 34.0 |
| Public Schools in Town | 18 | — |
Top 5 Reasons People Love Matthews
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Prime Location
Perched at the crossroads of U.S. 74 (Independence Boulevard) and I-485, Matthews offers quick commutes to Uptown Charlotte, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport, and neighboring employment hubs.
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Walkable Downtown
Historic Trade Street is lined with preserved brick facades, local coffee shops, boutiques, and popular breweries like Carolina Beer Temple and Seaboard Brewing. It’s a family-friendly hangout—perfect for stroller walks during the late-afternoon “witching hour.”
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Highly Rated Schools
The town is home to 18 public and charter schools. Test scores consistently outperform state averages, making Matthews a magnet for families.
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Educated & Engaged Community
Over 54 % of residents hold a bachelor’s or graduate degree, while 95 % possess at least a high-school diploma—statistics that translate into an active, informed citizenry.
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Lower-Than-Average Crime Rates
Both violent and property crime sit below national benchmarks, providing peace of mind for homeowners and investors alike.
Challenges & Considerations
- Rising Cost of Living – At 107 % of the U.S. average, everyday expenses, rents, and home prices are climbing as demand increases.
- Limited Housing Inventory – Low supply means fierce competition; when the right house appears, buyers must act fast and decisively.
- Traffic Congestion – Growth has outpaced infrastructure. Expect slow-downs along Trade Street, Matthews Township Parkway, and the I-485/Independence Blvd interchange, especially during rush hour.
Key Takeaways
If you’re after small-town character with easy access to Charlotte’s urban perks, Matthews deserves a top spot on your shortlist. Just be prepared for a hotter housing market and a bit more traffic than in years past. Secure a home now, and you’ll likely enjoy steady appreciation as the town continues to thrive.
