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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an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Matthews, NC sell after 48 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Matthews, NC over the last 12 months is $500,000, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Ask About 1% RATE REDUCTION SELLER IS PROVIDING FOR THE FIRST YEAR !!!! Welcome to 2202 Bextar Trail, a stunning brand-new townhome in the heart of Matthews offering the perfect combination of style, comfort, and convenience. Featuring the highly sought-after Ashland floor plan, this beautifully designed home offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and over 1,800 square feet of thoughtfully crafted
Welcome to a rare blend of luxury, privacy, and versatility in the heart of Matthews. Active on the market as of 6/4/26 (online days-on-market displayed by some third-party sites may be inaccurate due to prior limited exposure marketing). The septic permit is for 3 bedrooms; however, the home offers two additional rooms with closets currently being used as a bedroom and office, providing
Experience the ideal blend of style and functionality in this beautifully designed 4-bedroom, 3-bath IDLEWILD home, crafted for modern living. The open-concept layout and upscale finishes create a welcoming atmosphere from the moment you step inside. The gourmet kitchen features quartz countertops, an apron-front sink, a spacious center island, and a walk-in pantry—perfect for daily meals or
Minutes to the NEW WEDDINGTON EXIT, Walkable to Shopping Centers for all your needs! Immaculate home! 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. Plantation shutters accent the windows, while crown molding and wainscoting add a
Ask About 1% RATE REDUCTION SELLER IS PROVIDING FOR THE FIRST YEAR !!!! Welcome to 2202 Bextar Trail, a stunning brand-new townhome in the heart of Matthews offering the perfect combination of style, comfort, and convenience. Featuring the highly sought-after Ashland floor plan, this beautifully designed home offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and over 1,800 square feet of thoughtfully crafted
This exceptional home delivers architectural excellence, fine craftsmanship, and refined luxury living that discerning homeowners expect from an Arthur Rutenberg Masterpiece. Every room, every detail, and every finish in this 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath home has been thoughtfully crafted with premium touches for both beauty and function.From the moment you enter, you’ll experience the difference that
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
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
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bath home in the heart of desirable Matthews, offering approximately 1,657 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space! Featuring beautiful LVP flooring, a bright open layout, spacious dining area, and an oversized kitchen with abundant cabinetry and a large pantry, this home blends comfort and functionality perfectly. The oversized secondary
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
Charming 4-Bedroom Home on over half an Acre in Established Matthews Neighborhood | No HOAWelcome to this inviting 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home nestled in one of Matthews' most well-established neighborhoods. Thoughtfully designed as a split-level, this home features two bedrooms and one bath on each level, offering ideal privacy and flexible living. Situated on approximately 3/4 of an acre,
Just minutes from Historic Downtown Matthews, this 4 bedroom bungalow located on a quiet cul-de-sac was one of the original homes in Pine Forest, which now borders the neighborhoods of Greylock and Matthews Estates. This home is a tri-level which separates the busy living area from the bedrooms, always providing a space to retreat from everyone. A fenced in back yard provides a safe haven for
Seller offering buyer incentive of $15,000 to use toward closing costs, upgrades, or rate buy down with an acceptable offer. Welcome to Brookhaven — one of Weddington’s most desirable communities. Tucked away on a private street with no front or rear neighbors, this stunning full brick residence offers luxury living, exceptional privacy, and resort-style outdoor spaces designed for entertaining.
Well appointed home located in the ever popular Fairhaven community in Matthews with sought after Union County school assignments. Open floorplan with extra generous kitchen featuring a large island with pendant lighting, ample cabinet and counter space, tile backsplash , stainless steel appliances and pantry. The kitchen opens to a dining area and the great room with gas fireplace. There is a
Looking for that elusive "move-in ready" gem? This is it. Tucked away on the Union County side of Matthews, this darling ranch-style home is the definition of easy living. From the moment you pull into the driveway, you can tell this one has been truly loved—it’s meticulously maintained, spotless, and ready for its next chapter. Step inside and you’re greeted by a bright, airy layout featuring 3
Welcome to this fully furnished, custom luxury home respite, sitting on almost 2 Acres in the heart of Weddington. Surrounding property is on an unbuildable wooded 15 Acres so it feels like so much more space and privacy! The back linai is amazingly private and lovely to sit and have coffee or a cocktail or just watch the deer roam through the woods. Home comes with a fully loaded gourmet kitchen
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. It's exactly what you'd expect from a
Charming Ranch-Style Home in the Desirable Matthews Park Community!This cozy 3-bedroom, 1-bath home is full of charm and thoughtful updates. Featuring beautiful wood flooring throughout, the open-concept kitchen offers granite countertops, a stunning tiled backsplash, and flows seamlessly into the living area — perfect for entertaining friends and family. Freshly painted in neutral tones, the
Welcome to Avana Matthews a collection of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes. We understand that your home is more than a place to live. It's a place to unwind after a long day. It's a space to share moments with loved ones or take care of daily tasks that keep life running smoothly. Our apartments invite you to be yourself while enjoying access to all the essentials.
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!
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
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
Welcome home to The Address Galleria. This stunning community is home to luxurious amenities, spacious layouts, and all the modern comforts you've been looking for. Here, you'll discover 5-star amenities like a resort-style pool, fully equipped fitness center, outdoor lounge area, and so much more. Whether you're a retiree looking forward to the best years of your life or a recent transplant
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
Discover modern Matthews living at Briley Apartments, a pet-friendly community just minutes from downtown Charlotte. Our studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments feature premium finishes like granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and luxury vinyl plank flooring, creating a sleek and elevated living experience. Enjoy smart home technology with keyless entry and programmable
We are now accepting in-person and self-guided tours via scheduled appointments only. Our Virtual tours are also available. Please schedule yours today. From the detailed architecture to the two gourmet kitchens packages, everything about Fountains Matthews is designed to make it the home you've always wanted. Our amenities package rivals that of exclusive resorts, including a saltwater pool with
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