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
- 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.
- 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.”
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Need Help Relocating to Matthews?
Contact The Longleaf Group for customized advice on neighborhoods, schools, and winning strategies in a competitive market.