Kings Mountain, named for one of the two peaks in its namesake state park, is a quiet little town in rural North Carolina’s Cleveland County. Major industries include manufacturing and agriculture; Frito-Lay, Firestone Fibers & Textiles and Revolution Performance Fabrics are top local employers. “It’s a very small town, with not a whole lot going on. But it is a quaint, cute little place,” says Colleen Essick, an Allen Tate Realtor with several years of experience working with clients in the area. She says it’s the atmosphere and affordability that appeal most to homebuyers. “The taxes aren’t unreasonable, and the home prices aren’t unreasonable. Plus, there’s been a lot of growth, specifically new construction homes,” Essick says. Realtor Choon Kim, also of Allen Tate, a current resident, agrees, noting that while property values tend to be higher than those in the neighboring town of Shelby, it’s still a much more affordable place to buy a home than Charlotte. Plus, many homes here don’t actually go on the market. “People in Kings Mountain don’t move," Kim says. "They’ll hand over the property to their children or relatives, so they don’t go through the typical sales channels, which means that if a home goes up for sale on the general market in Kings Mountain, it’s highly desirable.”
Kings Mountain State Park features trails, lakes, wildlife viewing and more for visitors.
The beauty of Kings Mountain is found in the vast open acres of untouched nature surrounding the city.
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New construction on the rise
Kings Mountain’s median single-family home price is $275,000, far lower than Charlotte’s median of almost $450,000 and the national median of $406,100. Midcentury bungalows and ranch-style homes are common all over town; Traditional and Modern Transitional-style new builds are popping up, too. Some are scattered throughout town individually, but Kim observes that there are many new developments on the southeast side, in the Pinnacle area close to Crowders Mountain State Park. “In 2024, we had a 23% increase in new listings, so we’re definitely selling more homes here,” Essick says, adding that the average days-on-market is 56. That’s slightly higher than the national average of 44. “Kings Mountain is one of those places where we’ve seen an increase in both the average sale and the number of listings. The larger lot sizes and new construction are appealing, especially to young families," Essick continued. "People are able to get a new construction home on a larger lot than in Charlotte or Rock Hill, where builders are putting new construction on small, tiny little lots.”
New communities are being developed around Kings Mountain helping to draw new residents to the area.
Newer homes can be found hidden among the well established communities spread around Kings Mountain.
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Kings Mountain Gateway Trail will connect to mountainous parks south of town soon
Kings Mountain State Park and Kings Mountain National Military Park, a Revolutionary War battle site, are about 15 miles south of town. Technically, they’re in South Carolina, but Kim says North Carolinians from as far as Charlotte visit for day trips to hike the scenic mountain trails. “It’s a great area for people to go out and get some exercise and fresh air,” she says. Essick agrees, adding that Crowders Mountain State Park is equally popular for hiking and mountain views. Just north of the state border, it’s even closer to town. As the Ridgeway Trail expands, hikers will soon be able to access the three parks via the Kings Mountain Gateway Trailhead off South Battleground Avenue. The Catawba Two Kings Casino, off Interstate 85 just south of town, also draws visitors from around the region.
According to the Trust for Public Land, 13% of residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park in Kings Mountain proper. The city is in the final planning stages of the Davidson Park Renovation Project, an estimated $5.3 million update to the northwest side’s park that will add a new tot lot, fitness stations and pickleball courts. Deal Park hosts Kings Mountain’s annual Revolutionary Fourth celebration on July 4th, billed as the largest fireworks show between Charlotte and Asheville. Essick: “It’s a pretty big crowd-raiser for the area.” Patriots Park, downtown, also hosts annual events, like the NC BeachBlast Festival celebrating Carolina beach music in August, the Great Pumpkin Parade in October and the Christmas tree lighting ceremony in December.
Kings Mountain locals can learn more about Crowders Mountain State Park at the visitors center before heading to the trails.
The beauty of Kings Mountain is found in the vast open acres of untouched nature surrounding the city.
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Kings Mountain High School offers dual enrollment with Cleveland Community College
Kings Mountain students are zoned to attend seven schools within the Cleveland County Public Schools system, which earns an overall B-plus from Niche. The average student-teacher ratio is 15 to 1. While open enrollment/school choice is unavailable, Cleveland Early College High School in the neighboring city of Shelby offers an application-based college-prep magnet program. Kings Mountain High School works with Cleveland Community College to provide dual enrollment classes. Private school options include C-rated Grace Christian Academy and A-minus-rated Gaston Christian School, both nondenominational. Gaston Christian School’s Kings Mountain campus serves preschool through seventh graders in the historic Central School building downtown. The main campus, in Gastonia, about 16 miles east, serves preschool through 12th graders.
Older students in Kings Mountain attend Kings Mountain High School.
Gaston Christian School is a private educational institution in Kings Mountain receiving an A- from niche.
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Some local shops and restaurants, more options in nearby Shelby
“Kings Mountain and Shelby are kind of intermingled in terms of shopping and dining. Most stores and restaurants are in Shelby, but Downtown Kings Mountain, right where the post office is, has some small shops, the city government building, the utilities building, and a few restaurants,” Kim says. Additional retailers are found in shopping centers along Business Route 74 and North Carolina Routes 161 and 216. Kim observes that while locals do gather for the occasional event in Downtown Kings Mountain, Shelby tends to host bigger events (and more often), like the NC Liver Mush Festival, which celebrates a popular regional dish. “Liver Mush is basically the exact same thing as scrapple, but it’s made from liver and cornmeal, whereas scrapple is everything but the oink, if you know what I mean,” Essick says. The annual event is held in Uptown Shelby every October, with liver mush and other food vendors, live music and a pet parade and costume contest.
Kings Mountain is a small town with big Southern charm welcoming visitors and new residents.
There are a variety of small and locally owned eateries and more for Kings Mountain locals to enjoy in nearby Shelby.
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Car-dependent but close to highways
With no public transportation available, Kings Mountain residents are car-dependent. However, Interstate 85 and U.S. Route 74 are nearby, connecting to bigger cities like Gastonia, about 11 miles east. Charlotte is another 15 miles farther east, typically a 45-minute drive, depending on traffic.
Cleveland County’s property crime rate is lower than North Carolina’s
While Kings Mountain crime states aren't readily available, Cleveland County's violent crime rate increased by just over 6% between 2022 and 2023. The county’s property crime rate declined by over 1% over the same period. Cleveland County’s violent crime rate is higher than the state’s, while the county’s property crime rate is lower than the state’s.
Written By
Megan Quintin
Photography Contributed By
Justin Stapp
Video By
Everett Hall-McNeill
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Kings Mountain, NC sell after 79 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Kings Mountain, NC over the last 12 months is $292,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
125 Unity Church Rd is a single-story Kings Mountain home with a functional, open layout. The kitchen features white cabinetry, a stainless steel range and dishwasher, dark countertops, and wood-look flooring that carries through the main level. The living room sits off the front entry beneath a vaulted ceiling with a ceiling fan. Bedrooms include ceiling fans for steady airflow, while two full
Absolutely stunning new construction in Kings Mountain NC! This home boasts three generously sized bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a dedicated laundry and utility room! The guest bedrooms are spacious and are well placed with great views of the land! The primary suite also is very spacious with a walk in closet and private full bathroom that has a tiled bath and shower area and a double sink
Imagine 609 Ginger Dr, a residence built for practical living and everyday ease. The kitchen is equipped with all stainless steel appliances and features an accent backsplash. A comforting fireplace anchors a central space, while the primary bathroom includes double sinks for convenience. The primary bedroom contains double closets, maximizing storage capacity, and an exterior deck expands
Enjoy peaceful country living just outside Kings Mountain on this spacious home situated on a large, flat 1.15-acre lot. A covered front porch welcomes you into a split-bedroom floor plan with primary en-suite on one end and two secondary bedrooms on the opposite end. Secondary bedrooms share a convenient Jack-and-Jill bath, with a 3rd full bathroom in the hallway. Large kitchen opens to the
Welcome home to this spacious 4-bedroom, 1.5-bath brick ranch offering comfortable one-level living on a generous lot. A welcoming covered front porch invites you inside to a bright and functional floor plan featuring a spacious living room with a cozy brick fireplace, creating the perfect space to relax or entertain. The adjoining dining area flows into the kitchen, which offers ample cabinet
Tucked away in a peaceful cove on Moss Lake, this charming waterfront home sits on approximately **1 acre across two parcels**, offering the perfect blend of privacy, comfort, and natural beauty. Featuring 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 updated bathrooms, the home showcases a welcoming layout designed for everyday living and entertaining.The updated kitchen is appointed with granite
Space, privacy, and exceptional outdoor living sets this Country Meadow Lane home apart. Situated on 1.5 landscaped acres with NO HOA, this 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home offers approximately 3,200 square feet with plenty of room for everyday living and entertaining.The backyard is a standout, featuring an in-ground pool, hot tub, gazebo, fire pit, expansive decks and patios, mature
This is the one! Well Maintained HOME. Move In Ready. This spacious 2-Story HOME offers over 1,800 square feet of living space, featuring 3 bedrooms & 2.5 bathrooms. Completely fenced in back yard, a spacious concrete patio for entertaining, appliances are included, safe included and extra storage in the garage for all your needs. This home is ready for you.The property boasts an open
Back on the market no fault of the seller. Welcome to this beautifully renovated, move-in ready home situated on 4.9 unrestricted acres in Kings Mountain — a rare opportunity offering space, flexibility, and incredible potential.Inside, you’ll find 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and a bright open-concept layout designed for comfortable everyday living and entertaining. The home has
Outstanding opportunity for investors, DIYers, or buyers looking to build sweat equity! This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home sits on a private lot in Kings Mountain and offers fantastic potential. The interior features a cozy living room with a fireplace, a dedicated dining area, and a functional layout with a spacious master suite. Enjoy outdoor living on the back deck and peaceful surroundings.
Along with price improvement Seller is offering $3000 in SELLER CONCESSIONS!Welcome to 409 Baker Street, where comfort, convenience, and outdoor living come together in the heart of Kings Mountain! This beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers approximately 1,300 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space featuring an open-concept floor plan that's perfect for both everyday
Investor Special! 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch home situated on a generous 0.34-acre lot—loaded with potential and ready for your vision. This property offers a solid footprint with a functional layout, making it an ideal candidate for renovation or resale. The spacious lot and existing structure create a strong foundation to transform this property into something truly special. Enjoy the added value
Ready for move-in! This three bedroom, two bath ranch home in Beason Creek is completely turn key, freshly painted and priced below tax value! Large, sunny great room that's open to the kitchen and dining area. The modern kitchen has white cabinets, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, pantry and a breakfast bar. Large primary suite with extended vanity and granite countertops, step in
INVESTOR OPPORTUNITY NEAR CATAWBA TWO KINGS CASINO! Located approximately 4–6 miles, or about a 7–10-minute drive, from Catawba Two Kings Casino, this Kings Mountain property puts you close to one of the area’s major entertainment destinations.Bring your vision to 218 Branchwood Cir! Situated on approximately 0.43 acres, this single-level home is permitted for 2 bedrooms per septic
Forget new construction, this homes a deal & priced well below tax value! This beautiful cul-de-sac home is completely turn key and ready for it's new owner! Freshly painted throughout and all new carpet. New roof November 2025 for peace of mind! Vinyl plank floors in the kitchen, bathrooms and laundry. Modern, all white kitchen with granite counters and stainless steel appliances, pantry,
Charming single-family home available for rent! Enjoy relaxing on the covered front porch of this beautifully renovated home, designed with a neutral, modern style and move-in-ready condition. The interior features fresh paint, luxury vinyl plank flooring, crown molding, and ceiling fans for added comfort.A spacious laundry room with hookups is included for your convenience. Utilities are
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $2634.70. That covers your base rent, $2495.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
Beautifully Renovated Home | Flex Room | 0.46-Acre Lot | New Fence | Pet Friendly803 Katherine Ave, Kings Mountain, NCWelcome home to this beautifully renovated one-level home situated on a spacious 0.46-acre lot in one of Kings Mountain's quiet, established neighborhoods. Offering 1,310 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space, this move-in-ready home combines modern updates,
This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 1,507 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living, supported by a team that puts residents first. As a Tricon resident, you'll enjoy access to Tricon Vantage — a program designed to support your rental
Spacious rental opportunity in Kings Mountain! This home offers 5 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, plus an additional 6th flex room that can be used as a bedroom, home office, playroom, or bonus space. Features include hardwood flooring, a private driveway, yard, and main-level laundry. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, schools, and major roadways. No pets allowed. Rental assistance programs
Newer single wide, 3 bedroom, 2 bath home for rent in Kings Mountain. Home features a refrigerator, range, dishwasher, vinyl plank flooring, and a front and rear deck. Convenient to Hwy 74 and I-85 make it an easy commute to work. Kings Mountain has a lot to offer including good schools, access to parks and recreation, Two Kings Casino, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Pictures are
WELCOME HOME to 918 Mountain Crest Dr.Single family, 2 bed 1 bath home with off street parking. Fully remodeled. Ceiling fans in all rooms. New floors, appliances, cabinets etc.Home is on Septic.Avail NOW!!!!No petsNo smokingRenters ins requiredApp fee is $85 per person, nonrefundable$150 one time admin fee due at move inMust have credit score above 650No
Welcome to 804 3rd Street in Kings Mountain! This inviting rental offers a comfortable place to call home in a convenient location close to local shopping, dining, parks, schools, and everyday amenities.Featuring a practical layout with welcoming living spaces and plenty of potential to make the home your own, this property is a great opportunity for anyone looking for comfortable living
Welcome to Kings Mountain! This inviting rental offers a comfortable place to call home in a convenient location close to local shopping, dining, parks, schools, and everyday amenities.Featuring a practical layout with welcoming living spaces and plenty of potential to make the home your own, this property is a great opportunity for anyone looking for comfortable living in a convenient
Updated 2 bed / 1 bath apartment, upstairs unit. Home has new central HVAC, fresh paint & is all electric. Apartment comes with courtesy use appliances (refrigerator, electric range & W/D connections). *No pets allowed.
Be the first to call this beautiful brand-new 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in Kings Mountain, NC home! This thoughtfully designed two-story residence offers modern living with a functional floor plan, quality finishes, and comfortable spaces throughout.The main level features an inviting open-concept living and dining area that flows seamlessly into the kitchen, creating a comfortable space for
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