In 1874, the Central Carolina Railroad established a train depot in a farming community named after its director, Watson Matthews. With the train’s success, the town transformed into the city of Matthews, incorporated in 1872. Today, the same train tracks run through Matthew’s bustling downtown, and the depot is now a visitor center and museum. Matthews is south of Charlotte, but this mid-size city makes an impact in Mecklenburg County with its constant community events, booming commercial scene and accessibility to Union County.
Nicole McAlister is a Realtor with Keller Williams who has over 10 years of experience selling homes in North and South Carolina. “When I think of Matthews, I think of character, and not a lot of places near Charlotte have that,” McAlister says. “Matthews is one of the few places where you get access to Charlotte, affordable prices and big lots. It’s a beautiful town.” The city has three districts: the Cultural Arts District features festivals and musicals; Historic Downtown offers locally owned restaurants and stores; and the North End is filled with businesses and chain restaurants. Families, young professionals and older folks settle in Matthews for the community and countless ways to enjoy time out of the house.
The commercial district of Matthews sits on it's eastern border.
Residents will feel right at home as they enter Matthews city limits.
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Busy downtown and plans for growth
Around 30,000 residents live in Matthews’ 17-square-mile city limits. Many business owners have offices and shops downtown, but some locals work for Novant Health Hospital, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and national retail chains. Finance and banking employees often commute to Charlotte. The city created the Strategic Economic 2023-2028 Plan to create more walkable routes, better access to downtown businesses and a more connected city overall. Although the community wants growth, city officials still protect historic buildings and monuments around town.
Matthews residents have a 12 mile commute to Uptown Charlotte.
30,000 residents live in Matthews’ 17-square-mile city limits.
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Older homes with large yards
Homes take 26 days on average to sell compared to the national average of 44 days. The median price is $527,500, higher than the $418,700 national median reported by the National Association of Realtors. Throughout the city, many homes were built between the 1990s and mid-2010s. The majority range from $500,000 to $800,000. Larger colonial-style and Craftsman homes in the west half can go for over $1 million, depending on the size. Smaller properties on the east side of downtown sell for $375,000 to $500,000. Townhouses in the Sycamore Trail subdivision are still being built and start in the $300,000s. McAlister points out the Shannamara subdivisions as one of the more notable neighborhoods. Homes here are next to The Divide golf course, and some have views of the private lake where residents can fish.
Newly built traditional homes are a popular option in Matthews.
There are Colonial-style homes with large front porches in Matthews.
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Constant festivals and community events throughout Matthews
Despite being a mid-size town, Matthews is one of the most active cities in Mecklenburg County. “Matthews always has something going on,” McAlister says. “It’s not a huge town, but they put on so many events.” Downtown has a farmers market every Saturday morning, and Stumptown Park hosts the city’s BeachFest every spring. Residents can spend Saturdays perusing local artwork at the nearby McDowell Arts Center or discovering the ins and outs of railroad switchboards at the Heritage Museum. The Matthews Alive! Festival happens every Labor Day weekend, and the event has been a tradition for over 50 years, where vendors, musicians, artists and the community celebrate the city and support nonprofit organizations.
Data from the FBI shows Matthews had a 28% increase in reported violent crimes and a 3% increase in reported nonviolent crimes. The Matthews Police Department partnered with LexisNexis to design an online community crime map, alerting locals to crimes when they occur. Residents can also sign up for CharMeck Alert to get emergency notifications for Mecklenburg County. Just as the city organizes nearly endless events, the MPD also schedules events throughout the year to connect with the community, like the bi-weekly Car Seat Safety & Installation. Residents and business owners can join the Community Video Partner Program to give police quicker access to surveillance cameras during an investigation.
Check out the Matthews local artwork at the nearby McDowell Arts Center.
Learn about Matthews history at the Heritage Museum.
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Popular public and private schools
Matthews falls in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District, which earns a B-plus from Niche. The Telra Institute is a public charter school that stands out for its A-plus rating and advanced curriculum. The city also has private schools like Providence Day, which gets an A and is ranked as the best private school in the Charlotte area by Niche. Some residents choose private Christian schools, like Charlotte Country Day, with its A-plus rating and college prep courses.
Charlotte Country Day School serves students from preschool through twelfth grade.
Some residents of Matthews choose private Christian schools like Carmel Christian School.
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Downtown retail and nearby shopping centers
How about: Downtown is always full of shoppers walking to mom-and-pop boutiques, coffee shops and family-owned restaurants. “Matthews has a ton of businesses primarily downtown, but there are some throughout town,” McAlister says. Portrait Gallery Restaurant & Bar fills one of downtown Matthews’ oldest buildings, and the Jekyll and Hyde Taphouse Grill in North End serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in a steampunk-themed restaurant. Along Independence Boulevard, the city has multiple commercial shopping centers full of chain stores, like the Matthews Township Shopping Center and Sycamore Commons. Residents from Matthews and even Union County to pick up groceries or dine out.
Portrait Gallery Restaurant & Bar fills one of downtown Matthews’ oldest buildings.
The Jekyll and Hyde Taphouse is a Matthews favorite for craft beer.
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Preservation programs and spacious parks
Matthews is known for being the fifth designated Bee City in the U.S., promoting safe habitats for pollinators. Committees from the city’s parks and recreation department help conserve the local bee population, while maintaining popular greenspaces. “We constantly hear stories from families and young professionals who want to buy homes near parks here,” says Corey King, director of Matthews’ Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department. Many parks are within walking distance of neighborhoods, including the 29-acre Squirrel Lake Park with its disc golf course, playground equipment and access to the Four Mile Creek Greenway trail. Locals can plant flowers in Purser-Hulsey Park’s community garden or watch a soccer match at the Mecklenburg County Sportsplex. The weather is average, with humid summers and mild winters, giving residents more time to spend outside.
Enjoy a game of disc golf at the 29-acre Squirrel Lake Park in Matthews.
Catch up with a friend while you walk the Four Mile Creek Greenway in Matthews.
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Commuting down I-485, Sardis Road or Independence Boulevard
Matthews is southeast of Charlotte, and commuters use Highway 74 -- commonly known as Independence Boulevard -- or Sardis Road when driving 12 miles to Uptown. “Before I-485 was built, it was difficult for people to get to Matthews,” McAlister says. “Now people can get to the area easier, and things really picked up once I-485 was finished. Matthews is also a hub between Charlotte and areas like Mint Hill, so people can get to the hospital.” Novant Health Matthews Medical Center, off the Matthews Township Parkway, was built in 1994, but the hospital campus has undergone multiple expansions since then.
Interstate 485 makes it easy to reach the Charlotte Douglas International Airport, 29 miles from Matthews. Many residents travel by car, but the downtown area has wide sidewalks, and the Charlotte Area Transit System offers public bus routes throughout the city and beyond. Driving to work in Uptown takes about 30 minutes, but early morning and 5’o clock traffic are a daily hassle.
Written By
Rylee Doyle
Photography Contributed By
Ryan Gwilliam
Video By
Victoria Sharpe
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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On average, homes in Matthews, NC sell after 48 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Matthews, NC over the last 12 months is $510,000, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 1027 Masefield Avenue, a thoughtfully designed 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath home located in the highly sought-after Tennyson community — just 3 miles from charming downtown Matthews and 10 miles to Uptown Charlotte. This modern farmhouse showcases impeccable design and an open-concept layout that seamlessly connects the living room, dining area, and chef’s kitchen — ideal for both everyday
NO HOA! Updated! Prime Matthews LocationWelcome to the Heathers. This is the one you have been waiting for. Beautifully renovated and move-in ready. Starting with the Freshly painted exterior, new gutters and rocking chair front porch. Step inside to a neutral color palette & updated lighting. Formal Dining room to enjoy family, friends and home cooked meals. Tasteful tile flooring throughout
Experience the ideal blend of space, comfort, and flexibility in this beautifully designed 3,519 sq. ft. SHILOH home offering 4 bedrooms and 4 baths. The open-concept floor plan is enhanced by refined finishes and a welcoming atmosphere throughout. The gourmet kitchen stands out with quartz countertops, a stainless-steel cabinet hood, an apron-front sink, a generous center island, and both a
Beautiful Opportunity in Matthews! This established micro-estate pairs a thoughtfully designed home with nearly five acres of private land, offering the freedom and flexibility you’ve been seeking. The Charming, two bedroom bungalow embodies modern-rustic charm and deliberate design. So many details reflect quality: tile work throughout the bath, thoughtful upgrades, and single-level living that
Minutes to the NEW WEDDINGTON EXIT! Plantation shutters accent the windows, while crown molding and wainscoting add a polished, designer feel throughout. The open floor plan highlights a gourmet kitchen featuring quartz countertops, a tile backsplash, extra-tall cabinets, and a large island with a deep single-bowl sink, perfect for everyday living and entertaining. A convenient drop zone with
PRICE IMPROVED – BEST VALUE IN THE COMMUNITY! Built in 2023, this spacious home features 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and over 2,100 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. The entry level includes a private guest bedroom with a full bath, perfect for visitors, a home office, or multi-generational living. The main living level is bright and open, designed for both everyday comfort and
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath end-unit townhome offering comfort, functionality, and low-maintenance living. The open floorplan provides great flow between the living, dining, and kitchen spaces, making everyday living and entertaining effortless. The kitchen features sleek black stainless steel appliances and overlooks the main living area for a bright, connected
Welcome to 1027 Masefield Avenue, a thoughtfully designed 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath home located in the highly sought-after Tennyson community — just 3 miles from charming downtown Matthews and 10 miles to Uptown Charlotte. This modern farmhouse showcases impeccable design and an open-concept layout that seamlessly connects the living room, dining area, and chef’s kitchen — ideal for both everyday
Darling 2-bedroom 2.5-bathroom townhome. Enjoy all it has to offer from the spacious bedrooms to separate dining room, New stainless appliances, lush new carpet and stately columns. Open Living Room with lots of Natural Light. Kitchen well-equipped with all appliances and plenty of cabinets. Shaded Private Back Patio. Bedrooms even have their own attached private bathrooms and walk-in closets.
New Listing!Spacious and beautifully designed, this home offers over 2,600 square feet with 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. The exceptional floor plan features a large primary suite with an impressive walk-in closet. Three additional bedrooms provide plenty of space, with two also offering walk-in closets.The main level showcases laminate flooring for both style and easy maintenance. The
Build your dream home on this beautiful and private 3.14-acre lot in Matthews! Enjoy a country lifestyle on a large parcel while being conveniently located near shopping, dining, and entertainment, steps away from Windsor Square. Easy access to Hwy 485 and Hwy 74 makes commuting to Uptown Charlotte a breeze. No HOA and no known residential building restrictions. The property is partially cleared,
Matthews, NO HOA and Income producing 2nd living quarters OR rent BOTH homes! Discover a unique property offering both comfortable living and impressive income potential. The main home features a great open floor plan with 1 story living, three bedrooms and two full bathrooms. Access the expansive newly added rear patio from the living room OR the primary bedroom for a peaceful and private
Welcome to the Seneca single-family home, where modern elegance meets functional design in the heart of Glenhurst, a charming neighborhood in Weddington. This stunning new construction boasts an impressive 4,485 square feet, offering ample space for both relaxation and entertainment. As you step inside, you are greeted by an open floorplan that seamlessly connects the gourmet kitchen to the
Welcome to The Shiloh, a stunning single-family home that epitomizes spacious living in the desirable Glenhurst community of Weddington. This new construction boasts an impressive 3,519 square feet of thoughtfully designed space, featuring four bedrooms and four full baths. As you approach, the charming front porch invites you to step inside, where a welcoming foyer leads to distinct living and
Tucked away on 2.7 (consisting fo 3 parcels) private acres in Matthews, this one-of-a-kind property offers a rare opportunity to enjoy a peaceful, nature-filled setting with established gardens, winding paths, and multiple outdoor living spaces.Designed for those seeking a more intentional lifestyle, the grounds feature dedicated garden areas, mature landscaping, and space to create your own
Darling 2-bedroom 2.5-bathroom townhome. Enjoy all it has to offer from the spacious bedrooms to separate dining room, New stainless appliances, lush new carpet and stately columns. Open Living Room with lots of Natural Light. Kitchen well-equipped with all appliances and plenty of cabinets. Shaded Private Back Patio. Bedrooms even have their own attached private bathrooms and walk-in closets.
Tessa Communities is a creative concept in leased living with luxury apartments, single-family homes and townhouses designed to delight. Each residence offers a maintenance-free and amenity-filled lifestyle with impeccably landscaped grounds and active community spaces. Cutting-edge amenities and thoughtful attention to detail are evident throughout. Its exactly what youd expect from a community
Convenient, luxury low-maintenance patio home in Walden Austin Village! This ranch plan has 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths with a 2 car garage- all on one level! Open floorplan is spacious and inviting. Gourmet kitchen with a large center island, gas cooktop, Kitchenaide wall oven and lots of cabinets. Primary suite features a zero-entry shower, dual vanities and a large walk-in closet. Plantation
Welcome home to The Address Galleria. This stunning community is home to luxurious amenities, spacious layouts, and all the modern comforts youve been looking for. Here, youll discover 5-star amenities like a resort-style pool, fully equipped fitness center, outdoor lounge area, and so much more. Whether youre a retiree looking forward to the best years of your life or a recent transplant moving
Come see this Hidden Gem! Inside you will find a sun-filled two Bedroom one bath unique single-family home. Kitchen features stainless steel appliances & an open and bright floorplan. Updated bathroom & spacious size rooms. Located in a quiet Matthews area. Washer / Dryer included. Home also comes with one car garage. A set fee of $75.00 per month will be added to the lease for water. No pets
Mission Matthews Place Apartments in Matthews, North Carolina is a vibrant and welcoming community that offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful and serene setting close to all the conveniences and excitement of city life. Residents at Mission Matthews Place enjoy spacious and well-appointed apartments with features like hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops. The
3 Bedroom Brick Ranch near the heart of Matthews. Easy access to I-485. Range, Refrigerator, Microwave, Washer/Dryer Hookups, New LVP flooring throughout. Large Fenced Backyard. No Pets. Owner does not maintain the shed in yard but it can be used by tenant.
At Matthews Square, residents have access to a variety of upgraded community amenities. Our goal is to enhance our residents' lives. We want you to find places in our community to entertain, focus, and relax. That's why we have created thoughtful spaces in our community just for you!
Wonderful 3 bed, 2-1/2 bath townhome in desirable Summerfield Townhomes in Matthews. Move-in ready - clean, new flooring! So many great features including: Keyless entry, Smart Nest Thermostat, spacious kitchen withdoor to the patio, modern lighting fixtures and fans, fresh paint throughout, tankless water heater and remodeled patio paved with modern stones. Tons of natural light - this home
Welcome home to Aria at Idlewild! Aria is a Brand-New apartment community, strategically located just off I-485 and surrounded by everything you need! Enjoy the beautiful, natural views of the Stallings Greenway. Walk just next door for shopping and dining at Idlewild Market. Take advantage of the short drive to Charlotte to enjoy one of the many entertainment venues. Golf-lovers, you are
Large home features master down, sun room and small bonus area upstairs. Kitchen has lots of cabinets and storage. Master suite features garden tub, separate shower, dual vanity and walk in closet. Renters Insurance is required.We strive to provide an experience that is cost-effective and convenient. That’s why we provide a Resident Benefits Package (RBP) to address common headaches for our
It's the time of your life... why not enjoy all its privileges? Introducing Inspire Royal Park, an extraordinary senior apartment community in Matthews, NC designed for you.Our 55+ apartment rental community located in Matthews offers one and two bedroom, apartment homes. Select cottage homes are also available with attached garages. Relax in luxury with chef-inspired kitchens enhanced by
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