Waxhaw

Waxhaw’s Growth and Appeal

Waxhaw’s transformation over the past two decades has been nothing short of remarkable. In 2000, this Union County town was home to just over 3,000 residents. By 2023, the population had soared to more than 23,000—an incredible over 650% increase in just 23 years.

To put that in perspective, the Greater Charlotte region grew roughly 72% over the same period, while the United States as a whole grew around 18%. Waxhaw’s growth rate is not only well above regional averages—it’s in the top tier for small-town population booms nationwide.

This surge is fueled by more than just new housing developments. Waxhaw’s appeal lies in its rare balance of historic charm and modern convenience. The walkable downtown—with its iconic pedestrian bridge, local shops, and eateries—gives a true sense of place, while new neighborhoods, parks, and amenities have expanded the town’s livability and appeal.

People moving here are drawn to Waxhaw’s proximity to Charlotte—just 25 miles to Uptown—while still enjoying more space, green surroundings, and a slower pace of life. For many, it’s the perfect middle ground between suburban comfort and urban opportunity.

As growth continues, Waxhaw is following a trajectory similar to other highly sought-after communities across the country—places that combine strong economic opportunity, desirable lifestyle, and a sense of community. The difference? Waxhaw has managed to grow without losing the welcoming, small-town feel that sparked its popularity in the first place.

If history is any indicator, Waxhaw’s blend of charm, location, and economic vitality will keep it high on the list for people looking to put down roots in the Greater Charlotte area.

Schools in Waxhaw, NC

If you’re researching Waxhaw, NC, there’s a good chance you’re already aware the area is known for having some of the highest-rated schools in the Charlotte region. What you want now are the specifics—school names, rankings, and where to find more information.

Most of Waxhaw is served by Union County Public Schools (UCPS), one of the top-performing districts in North Carolina. Many local schools earn a 9/10 or 10/10 rating on GreatSchools.org, a sign of consistently strong academics, extracurricular programs, and community involvement.

Here’s a quick look at some of Waxhaw’s standout schools:

• Kensington Elementary –9/10 on GreatSchools.org

   

• New Town Elementary –9/10 on GreatSchools.org

   

• Sandy Ridge Elementary –9/10 on GreatSchools.org

   

• Cuthbertson Middle –10/10 on GreatSchools.org

   

• Marvin Ridge Middle –10/10 on GreatSchools.org

   

• Cuthbertson High –10/10 on GreatSchools.org

   

• Marvin Ridge High –10/10 on GreatSchools.org

   

In addition to public schools, Waxhaw families have access to nearby private schools, charter schools, and early learning centers—offering a range of options to fit different learning styles and priorities.

For deeper research, here are reliable resources:

• Union County Public Schools – District site with calendars, programs, and enrollment info
• GreatSchools.org – Waxhaw – Ratings, reviews, and test score data
• Niche.com – Waxhaw Schools – Rankings, stats, and parent insights

Waxhaw’s combination of top-ranked schools, strong district performance, and variety of education options is a major reason the area continues to see steady demand from homebuyers. If you’re considering a move here, the school system is one more factor that makes Waxhaw stand out in the Charlotte market.

Places to Eat in Waxhaw, NC

Waxhaw’s food scene is vibrant, welcoming, and full of character—whether you’re grabbing breakfast with the kids, sipping a craft beer, or dining out for date night. Check out some of the top local spots, organized by vibe and occasion.

Quick Bites & Casual Lunches

• Maxwell’s Tavern – Famous for juicy burgers and steak fries—worth the wait.
• Capricci’s True Italian – Homemade pasta and classic Italian fare in a relaxed, friendly setting.
• Hacienda El Rey – Flavorful Mexican eats and outdoor dining perfect for sunny afternoons.

Date Night & Elevated Dining

• Emmet’s Social Table – Tapas-style, shareable plates set in a remodeled mill building with live music and great ambiance.
• Mary O’Neill’s Irish Pub – Irish comfort food, pints, and cozy pub vibes that feel like home.

Breweries & Beer-Focused Spots

• Middle James Brewing Company – Waxhaw – Local craft brewery with food trucks, thrown-in NFL games, and friendly neighborhood charm.
• Cork & Ale – A relaxed wine and beer bar specializing in small plates—ideal for casual nights out.

Family-Friendly Eats

• Stacks Kitchen – All-day breakfast and classic diner favorites that kids and parents both love.
• American Burger Co. – Tasty, straightforward burgers and shakes in a laid-back setting.

Coffee & Sweet Treats

• Waxhaw Creamery & Coffee Shop – Ice cream and coffee together in one sweet, local spot.
• Crossroads Coffee House – Cozy hangout for your latte and light bite.

Insider Tips

Waxhaw’s dining culture goes beyond meals—seasonal events like First Friday bring food trucks, music, and a lively community vibe downtown. Also, check platforms like Yelp or TripAdvisor for current favorites and “what locals are craving.”

Things to Do in Waxhaw, NC – Recreation, Culture & Local Life

Waxhaw is more than just scenic views—it’s a destination for outdoor adventure, local culture, and family-friendly fun. From expansive parks to a buzzing downtown scene, you’ll find countless ways to enjoy life here.

🌳 Parks & Green Spaces

Downtown Park – A community gathering place with playgrounds, walking paths, an amphitheater, and plenty of green space for picnics and events.

Cane Creek Park – A 1,050-acre county park with hiking trails, campgrounds, and a 350-acre lake for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Twelve Mile Creek Greenway – A scenic trail perfect for walking, running, or biking, connecting Waxhaw to nature in every season.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun & Recreation

David G. Barnes Children’s Park – Playgrounds, shaded picnic spots, and open space for kids to run and explore.

Waxhaw Skate Park – Great for skateboarders and rollerbladers looking for a safe, local spot to practice.

Southwest Regional Library – A state-of-the-art facility offering children’s storytime, interactive STEM activities, reading programs, and community events for all ages.

Historic Walking Tour – Self-guided or group tours through Waxhaw’s historic landmarks, perfect for combining learning and exploration.

🎭 Museums & Local Culture

Museum of the Waxhaws – Learn about the region’s history and connection to President Andrew Jackson.

Storefront Theatre – Enjoy live performances, from plays and musicals to concerts and special events.

🛍️ Downtown Waxhaw Scene

Downtown Waxhaw is the cultural and social heartbeat of the area. Along Main Street, you’ll find boutique shops, antique stores, local art galleries, and one-of-a-kind specialty markets. Restaurants, coffee shops, and bakeries spill out onto the sidewalks, offering cozy patios for people-watching. Seasonal events like Jammin’ by the Tracks and the Holiday Festival of Lights bring the streets alive with music, food, and family-friendly entertainment. And of course, the iconic pedestrian bridge offers one of the most photographed views in town.

🥕 Markets & Seasonal Events

Waxhaw Farmers Market – Held Saturdays from April through December, featuring fresh produce, artisanal goods, baked treats, and flowers.

Popular annual events include the Spring Kaleidoscope Fest, Autumn Treasures Festival, and outdoor summer concert series—perfect for enjoying Waxhaw’s small-town charm with a big personality.

Why People Love It

With a thriving downtown, beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and plenty of family-focused activities, Waxhaw strikes the perfect balance between historic character and modern living. Whether you’re exploring trails, attending festivals, visiting the library, or grabbing a bite in a local café, there’s always something new to discover here.

Jobs in Waxhaw, NC – Career Opportunities & Commuting Options

Waxhaw offers the charm of small-town living with close proximity to some of the Charlotte region’s most dynamic employment hubs. Whether you’re working remotely, running your own business, or commuting to nearby centers of commerce, living in Waxhaw gives you access to a diverse range of career opportunities without sacrificing quality of life.

📍 Location Advantage for Professionals

Waxhaw is strategically located in Union County, just a short drive to:

• Ballantyne Corporate Park – 15–20 minutes away, home to Fortune 500 companies, financial services firms, tech companies, and professional service providers.
• South Charlotte & SouthPark – Offering headquarters, retail, healthcare, and banking opportunities.
• Uptown Charlotte – Roughly 30–40 minutes away, Uptown is the region’s central business district and a major hub for banking, law, technology, and government.

💼 Major Job Sectors Near Waxhaw

1. Banking & Financial Services

Charlotte is known as the second-largest banking center in the U.S., with Bank of America headquarters and major hubs for Wells Fargo, Truist, and other financial institutions. Many Waxhaw residents work in finance roles in Uptown or Ballantyne.

2. Healthcare & Life Sciences

Atrium Health andNovant Health have multiple locations within 20–30 minutes, offering opportunities in patient care, administration, and medical research.

3. Technology & IT Services

The Charlotte area’s tech sector is rapidly growing, with employers in software development, data analytics, cybersecurity, and fintech.

4. Education & Public Services

Union County Public Schools and nearby districts employ educators, administrators, and support staff. Municipal and county offices also provide stable public sector roles.

5. Logistics, Manufacturing & Engineering

With access to I-485 and nearby industrial parks, the region supports careers in supply chain, engineering, and advanced manufacturing.

🚗 Commuting & Remote Work Options

Waxhaw’s location gives professionals flexibility. Many residents commute to nearby business hubs, while others work from home—taking advantage of the area’s strong internet connectivity and quiet atmosphere.Co-working spaces are available in Ballantyne and South Charlotte for hybrid workers who need occasional office time.

🌟 Why Waxhaw Appeals to Professionals

Living in Waxhaw offers the best of both worlds:

• Easy access to high-paying job markets in Charlotte and surrounding areas.
• A calmer, more spacious environment to recharge outside of work hours.
• A growing local economy with more small businesses, shops, and service-based roles opening each year.

Related Resources:

• Ballantyne Corporate Park Employers

• Charlotte Chamber of Commerce – Job Resources

• Union County Economic Development

Taxes in Waxhaw, NC

One of the appealing aspects of living in Waxhaw is its relatively low property tax rate compared to many other parts of the country. Waxhaw is located in Union County, which consistently offers some of the more competitive tax rates in the Greater Charlotte area.

Property Taxes in Waxhaw

• Union County 2024 property tax rate: $0.73 per $100 of assessed value (combined county + town rate)
• For a home assessed at $500,000, annual property taxes are approximately $3,650.
• By comparison:
• Charlotte/Mecklenburg County: Around $0.96 per $100 assessed value (≈ $4,800/year for the same home).
• National average: Roughly 1.1% of home value (≈ $5,500/year for a $500,000 home).

📌 Source:Union County Tax Administration |Tax Foundation – Property Tax Data

Other Taxes to Consider

• Sales Tax: North Carolina’s combined state and local sales tax rate in Union County is 6.75% — slightly below the national average.
• Income Tax: North Carolina has a flat state income tax rate of 4.5% in 2024, lower than many states with progressive tax brackets.
• There is no local income tax in Waxhaw or anywhere in North Carolina.

📌 Source:North Carolina Department of Revenue

Why This Matters for Homebuyers

When compared to other major metros, Waxhaw’s tax structure can mean significant annual savings — freeing up budget for home upgrades, travel, or other lifestyle priorities. For buyers moving from higher-tax states like New York, New Jersey, or California, the difference can be substantial.