Matthews

Population & Growth – Matthews, NC

If you’ve ever driven through Matthews on a Saturday morning — maybe catching the farmers market, hearing live music, or watching families stroll down Trade Street — it’s easy to see why more and more people are calling this place home. Matthews has managed to keep its small-town charm while growing into one of the Charlotte area’s most sought-after suburbs.

Current Snapshot

As of 2024, about 32,048 people call Matthews home. That’s roughly a 9% jump since 2020, showing steady and healthy growth. The town’s appeal comes from its unique balance — you’re close enough to Charlotte to enjoy all the big-city perks, yet far enough away to feel the calm of a true community.

A Look at the Last 10 Years

Matthews’ growth story is one of resilience and steady progress:

• 2015: ~30,788 residents
• 2019: Estimated peak at 33,247 before the 2020 Census recalibration
• 2020 (official Census): 29,435 residents (a count adjustment, not a real drop)
• 2021–2023: Steady growth returns, hitting 30,934 in 2023
• 2024: 32,048 residents — up 3.6% from last year alone

Since 2020, Matthews has grown at an average pace of about 1.5% per year — enough to keep the town vibrant without losing its character.

Why Matthews is Growing

• The Location Factor: Just 11 miles southeast of Uptown Charlotte, Matthews is perfect for people who work in the city but want a quieter home life.
• Local Opportunity: Home to Harris Teeter’s corporate headquarters and a short drive to Charlotte’s thriving job market.
• Historic Meets Modern: A preserved downtown filled with shops, cafes, and events pairs beautifully with established neighborhoods and thoughtfully planned new developments.
• Quality of Life: Highly rated schools, green spaces, and a friendly, active community make Matthews an easy choice for families.

The Shape of Growth

Matthews isn’t growing through massive sprawl. With limited open land, the town focuses on infill development, downtown revitalization, and mixed housing options — from charming restored homes to sleek new townhomes. The 2024 Comprehensive Plan makes it clear: growth will be intentional, preserving the town’s unique feel while keeping up with demand.

See Matthews for Yourself

Numbers tell part of the story — but seeing Matthews in action brings it to life.

• All About Matthews, NC – Our full breakdown of the town’s location, lifestyle, and amenities.
• Why Downtown Matthews is So Popular – A walking tour of the heart of Matthews and everything that makes it a favorite gathering spot.

Bottom line: Matthews is growing, but it’s growing with purpose. It’s big enough to have every convenience you need, yet small enough to feel like a community where people still know each other by name. That’s the kind of growth that turns newcomers into long-term neighbors.

Schools in Matthews, NC

Matthews, North Carolina, is part of the highly regarded Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) district, which serves a large portion of Mecklenburg County. For families and individuals considering a move to the area, the quality of education available is often a key factor — and Matthews offers access to several schools with strong academic reputations and high ratings from GreatSchools.org (https://www.greatschools.org).

Elementary Schools
One standout is Matthews Elementary School (https://schools.cms.k12.nc.us/matthewsES/Pages/Default.aspx), which serves students in grades K–5 and consistently earns positive marks for student progress and teacher quality. Nearby, Elizabeth Lane Elementary (https://schools.cms.k12.nc.us/elizabethlaneES/Pages/Default.aspx) is also well regarded, with strong community involvement and academic programs.

Middle Schools
For grades 6–8, Crestdale Middle School (https://schools.cms.k12.nc.us/crestdaleMS/Pages/Default.aspx) is a popular choice among local families. It offers a range of academic programs and extracurricular activities, and GreatSchools.org (https://www.greatschools.org/north-carolina/matthews/4197-Crestdale-Middle/) reports solid ratings in academic performance and equity.

High Schools
David W. Butler High School (https://schools.cms.k12.nc.us/butlerHS/Pages/Default.aspx) serves grades 9–12 and is known for its robust Advanced Placement program, athletics, and arts opportunities. Butler regularly receives recognition for both academic achievement and student engagement.

Charter & Private Options
Matthews is also close to several charter and private school options for those seeking alternatives to traditional public education. Charter schools like Queen’s Grant Community School (https://www.queensgrant.com/) offer smaller learning environments and specialized curricula. For private education, Covenant Day School (https://www.covenantday.org/) provides a faith-based curriculum for grades K–12 and is located right in Matthews.

Why Matthews Stands Out for Education
Matthews schools benefit from strong parental involvement, access to extracurricular opportunities, and proximity to Charlotte’s educational resources. Whether you’re looking for a neighborhood school with a close-knit feel or a high school with extensive academic programs, the Matthews area provides a variety of quality choices.

For more details and the latest performance ratings, visit GreatSchools.org (https://www.greatschools.org/north-carolina/matthews/) or the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (https://www.cmsk12.org/) official website.

Dining in Matthews, NC

From historic charm to culinary creativity, Matthews delivers a delightful dining scene for whatever mood strikes—be it morning coffee, casual family dinners, or upscale date nights.

☕ Coffee & Casual Mornings
– Brakeman’s Coffee & Supply: Housed in a restored 1925 building, this café is a perfect mix of cozy ambiance and excellent brews—great for lazy mornings or a catch‑up with friends. https://brakemanscoffee.com/
– The Collective Café: A locally-owned spot offering specialty coffee, grain bowls, and made-to-order breakfast—all in one inviting café space. https://www.charlottemagazine.com/where‑to‑eat‑in‑matthews/

Family-Friendly & Everyday Eats
– New Zealand Café: A low-key favorite for sushi and seafood. Known for its friendly, efficient vibe and comfy setting—great for families or low-key dinners. https://www.charlottemagazine.com/where‑to‑eat‑in‑matthews/
– Kabab‑Je Rotisserie & Grille: This Lebanese gem serves hearty shawarma, flavorful mezze, and warm hospitality—solid family go-to. https://www.charlottemagazine.com/where‑to‑eat‑in‑matthews/
– The Loyalist Market: By day, a gourmet sandwich and cheese bar; by night, a cheese board and wine pairing spot. Casual but elevated—great for relaxed, tasty meals. https://theloyalistmarket.com/

Craft Beer, Cocktails & Dining Pubs
– Carolina Beer Temple: A local favorite for rotating craft beers, knowledgeable staff, and a relaxed vibe. No food, but many nearby delivery options. https://www.carolinabeertemple.com/
– Seaboard Brewing: Matthews’ homegrown brewery with on-site beers, a wine room, and regular tastings—perfect for beer lovers or relaxed meetups. https://www.seaboardbrewing.com/

Date-Night & Elevated Dining
– Santé: An elegant French-American restaurant in historical downtown—perfect for romantic dinners and fine fare made with fresh, local ingredients. https://www.santeofmatthews.com/
– The One Tapas & Bar: Cozy and refined, serving globally inspired small plates and craft cocktails—ideal for a relaxed, upscale evening. https://theonetapas.com/

Local Favorites & Underrated Spots
– Downtown Dining & Events: Walk Main Street to discover local shops and eateries like Nonna Maria’s deli, Yanni Bistro, and Cellar & Ale—plus weekly events like Food Truck Fridays and the popular Matthews Farmers Market. https://www.charlottemagazine.com/where-to-eat-in-matthews/
– New South Kitchen & Bar (Arboretum area): Elevated Southern dishes and cocktails in a lively yet warm environment—perfect for a special night out. https://www.opentable.com/nearby/restaurants-near-me-matthews

Insider Tip: For families and food lovers, weekend brunches downtown and rotating restaurants like Panzú Brewery in nearby Mint Hill (Caribbean-inspired tapas and brews) make Matthews and its surroundings an evolving and delicious dining destination. https://www.opentable.com/nearby/restaurants-near-me-matthews

Things to Do in Matthews, NC

Matthews, North Carolina, is a vibrant town that blends small-town charm with a lively calendar of activities, events, and recreational opportunities. Whether you enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or exploring local markets and festivals, Matthews offers something for everyone.

Parks & Outdoor Recreation

Nature lovers will appreciate Matthews’ beautiful parks and green spaces. Squirrel Lake Park features scenic walking trails, a large playground, a fishing pond, and picnic areas. Stumptown Park, located in the heart of downtown, is a popular spot for concerts, festivals, and seasonal events. Four Mile Creek Greenway provides a serene path for walking, running, and biking, connecting to nearby neighborhoods.

Events & Festivals

Matthews is known for its strong sense of community, reflected in its year-round events. The Matthews Alive Festival, held every Labor Day weekend, features a parade, live entertainment, arts and crafts, and food vendors—drawing visitors from across the Charlotte region. The weekly Matthews Community Farmers Market is one of the largest producer-only markets in the Southeast, offering fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal items.

Downtown Matthews Scene

Downtown Matthews blends historic charm with a growing selection of shops, restaurants, and breweries. Its walkable streets feature locally-owned boutiques, coffee shops, and dining spots, making it a favorite destination for residents and visitors alike. Historic buildings and preserved architecture add character to the area, creating an inviting atmosphere for an afternoon stroll or a night out.

Family-Friendly Fun

Families will find plenty to do in Matthews. From playgrounds and splash pads to seasonal events like outdoor movies and holiday parades, the town offers activities for all ages. The Matthews Sportsplex is a hub for youth and adult sports, hosting tournaments and community events throughout the year.

Arts & Culture

For those who appreciate the arts, Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts offers live theater productions and youth programs. The town also supports public art installations and rotating exhibits at local galleries.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day outdoors, a lively festival, or a cozy spot to enjoy a meal, Matthews delivers a well-rounded mix of activities that make it a standout community in the Greater Charlotte area.

Jobs and Career Opportunities in Matthews, NC

Matthews, North Carolina, offers residents the advantage of a charming, suburban lifestyle while being within close proximity to major employment hubs in the Greater Charlotte area. While Matthews itself is primarily known for its neighborhoods, small businesses, and thriving local economy, its location provides easy access to a diverse range of career opportunities.

### Local Employment
Matthews supports a strong base of local businesses, retail centers, healthcare services, and professional offices. Large retail areas such as Sycamore Commons and Matthews Festival Shopping Center provide employment in retail management, customer service, and hospitality. Healthcare facilities, including Novant Health Matthews Medical Center, offer jobs in nursing, administration, and patient care.

### Commuting to Nearby Job Hubs
One of Matthews’ biggest career advantages is its location. The town is just a short drive from major employment hubs like Uptown Charlotte (approximately 12 miles away) and the Ballantyne Corporate Park (around 10 miles away). These areas host a range of industries including banking, insurance, technology, legal services, marketing, and corporate headquarters.

### Major Industries and Sectors
Residents of Matthews benefit from proximity to some of Charlotte’s largest employers, such as Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Atrium Health, Lowe’s Companies, and Duke Energy. The region has strong representation in finance, healthcare, logistics, and technology, offering professionals a wide array of career paths.

### Remote Work Appeal
With Matthews’ quiet neighborhoods, high-speed internet availability, and access to nearby coworking spaces in Charlotte, the area is also appealing for remote workers. Many residents find they can enjoy a suburban lifestyle without sacrificing professional connectivity.

### Why Matthews Appeals to Professionals
Whether you’re seeking a career in a corporate environment, healthcare, small business, or remote work, Matthews’ strategic location gives you the flexibility to work locally or commute to major business districts while enjoying the benefits of living in a close-knit community.

Taxes in Matthews, North Carolina

Understanding the property tax landscape in Matthews, NC is an important step for anyone considering a move to the area. Matthews is located in Mecklenburg County, which means residents pay property taxes based on the county’s rate, along with the town’s municipal rate. As of 2024, the Matthews municipal tax rate is approximately 0.3050 per $100 of assessed value, while Mecklenburg County’s rate is around 0.6169 per $100 of assessed value. Combined, this means a total property tax rate of about 0.9219 per $100 of assessed value.

To put this in perspective, a home assessed at $500,000 in Matthews would have an estimated annual property tax bill of about $4,609.50. This is competitive compared to other municipalities in the Greater Charlotte area and is lower than the national average property tax rate, which hovers around 1.10% according to the Tax Foundation.

One of the benefits of living in Matthews is that residents enjoy access to high-quality amenities, well-maintained infrastructure, and community services without experiencing the higher property tax rates found in some parts of the U.S. Additionally, North Carolina does not tax Social Security retirement benefits, which can be advantageous for retirees considering a move to the area.

It’s also worth noting that Matthews is conveniently located near Charlotte, giving residents access to the city’s economic opportunities while maintaining a suburban feel. This balance of affordability, amenities, and location contributes to Matthews’ appeal.

For the latest information on property tax rates and policies in Matthews and Mecklenburg County, you can visit:
– Mecklenburg County Tax Assessor’s Office: https://www.mecknc.gov/assessor
– Town of Matthews Official Website: https://www.matthewsnc.gov/
– Tax Foundation Property Tax Data: https://taxfoundation.org/property-taxes-by-state-2024/