Monroe is one of the largest cities in the steadily growing Union County, with plenty of amenities balanced by a small-town atmosphere. The city’s motto is even “Where Heartland Meets High Tech.” Monroe has been the county seat since the town was established in 1844. Over 37,000 people live here, according to the 2023 U.S. Census, though expanding housing and friendly home prices compared to nearby Charlotte will likely soon lead to a higher population count. “People like the affordability aspect,” says Bradley Lucore, communication supervisor for the City of Monroe. “We’re about 45 minutes from Charlotte, and you pay astronomical prices for subdivisions around Charlotte. You come here, and we still have affordable prices. All of our city-owned streets are free, except for one, and people love the free downtown parking. It’s got a small-town feel, but we have the resources of a big city.”
The National Register of Historic Places recognizes the downtown area as the “Monroe Downtown Historic District” due to its late Victorian and Classical Revival storefronts, many of which date to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The housing market is also a mix of old and new, with historic homes closer to downtown and modern subdivisions still growing on the city’s outskirts.
Monroe has a blend of locally owned and national businesses to work for, but Charlotte is also 25 miles east via Highway 74. Union County built the Monroe Bypass, which opened in 2018, so Monroe residents could reach Uptown Charlotte and its financial employers more quickly.
Manufacturing is a big part of the local economy and job market in Monroe.
Travel is easy from Monroe to Charlotte using US-74 & the Monroe Expressway.
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New homes and a growing population
What was once a farming community has transformed into a bustling center, and new waves of homebuilding have accompanied this growth. “We’re booming here,” Lucore. “There are quite a few residential developments that have been approved, and a few are starting to put houses up for sale. I think with all this growth and all these homes on the market, we’re going to go past the 40,000 mark on the next census.”
Monroe has a roughly $413,000 median price, than the national median. Most move-in ready homes start in the $200,000s, like the ranch-style properties and bungalows, while historic homes built before 1920 make up the higher end of the price range, in the mid $500,000s or higher. Multiple neighborhoods, like Braemar Village, are still under development, and the New Traditional Craftsmans in these growing neighborhoods often have at least three bedrooms and sell in the $375,000 to $425,000 range.
The weather stays steady throughout Monroe. Summers get hot and humid, but winters are usually mild with little to no snowfall. Hurricanes that hit the East Coast often downgrade to tropical storms by the time they reach Monroe, which has led to flooded roads in the past.
Monroe is a rapidly growing area just southeast of Charlotte.
New home developments are sprouting all around Monroe.
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Manufacturing jobs and a revitalization plan
Monroe has long been a regional hub in Union County, originating as a tobacco trading center during the 19th century. Times have changed, and the leading industry has shifted to manufacturing. ‘We’ve got a lot of manufacturing here, and it’s high-tech manufacturing,” says Lucore. “We have the largest cluster of aerospace manufacturing in the southeast region. ATI makes parts for planes, and there are a couple of other companies, too.” There’s also a Tyson Foods processing plant right off U.S. Route 74.
The downtown scene continues to grow, with new businesses opening and a revitalization plan to attract even more businesses. The city offers incentives to encourage business owners to be interested in the area, including grants.
ATI is another large group that has chosen Monroe as their regional campus location.
Monroe is surrounded by numerous large manufacturing and distribution centers.
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Shopping along U.S. Route 74 and downtown
Residents from nearby Indian Trail, Wingate and Marshville often travel the short distance to Monroe for shopping and dining. Monroe Crossing Mall is nearby, but areas like the Poplin Place Shopping Center are often much busier. Most of the locally owned restaurants, breweries, shops and small businesses are downtown, while chain stores line Route 74.
High Octane Coffee on Lancaster Avenue specializes in Colombian coffee, breakfast sandwiches and waffle-bar options. East Frank Superette & Kitchen serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and it gets busy during themed events like Latin Dance Night. Downtown Monroe became a social district in 2021, allowing patrons to leave licensed businesses with alcohol and consume it openly within the district's boundaries. This led to the city’s first St. Patrick’s Day bar crawl in 2022, and now bar crawls happen year-round.
Monroe offers locals plenty of shopping and dining options just minutes from Charlotte.
Downtown Monroe has a wonderful downtown for shopping and dining.
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Union County Schools and a nearby community college
The Union County Public Schools district serves all of Monroe, and it’s one of the major draws to the area. Schools in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District are known to be large and packed full of students, but Union County schools have smaller class sizes and consistently high ratings. The district earns an A from Niche, and A-plus-rated Central Academy of Technology & Arts is one of the most popular high schools.
South Piedmont Community College’s campus is off Old Charlotte Highway, close to the Charlotte-Monroe Executive Airport. The private Wingate University is 8 miles south of downtown Monroe. Both institutions create jobs for Monroe, and students can commute to classes. SPCC gets a B-minus, and Wingate receives a C.
Union County Public Schools serves students of Monroe and the surrounding areas.
Central Academy of Technology and Arts offers great academics and extracurriculars.
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Highways, airports and houses of worship
Route 74 cuts through the center of Monroe, leading 27 miles to Charlotte, though most commuters pay a toll to use the much quicker Monroe Bypass to avoid morning and evening traffic on 74. U.S. Route 601 branches off Route 74 and flows south into Pageland, South Carolina. The city makes up for not having public buses with an on-demand service called “U Can Go!” Passengers book a ride 48 hours in advance and pay $2 for trips within Union County. Most downtown parking is free, making it easy to park and walk to a restaurant or store. The Charlotte-Monroe Executive Airport handles private flights, but anyone who needs to fly out of state or internationally drives roughly 40 miles to the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Atrium Health Union offers emergency, in-patient and out-patient services at the hospital’s campus, also off Route 74 in the city's eastern half.
Around 77% of North Carolina residents identify as Christians, according to the Pew Research Center. Many attend Baptist churches, and Monroe follows a similar trend, as most of the churches in town are in the Baptist denomination.
Gathering for the Warbirds Over Monroe Air Show
Downtown Monroe features three compact parks, and The Monroe Aquatics and Fitness Center offers monthly memberships to access the indoor pool and gym equipment. The 9-hole Monroe Country Club golf course was designed in 1936 by Donald Ross, a notable golf course architect. The club has public and member tee-time options. The Monroe Science Center recently opened downtown, creating an entertaining learning space with over 30 exhibits. The Dowd Center Theatre hosts movie screenings and plays. Across the street, the Presson Gallery, which opened in 2023, curates displays from local and international artists.
The Parks and Recreation Department puts on events throughout the year, the most popular being the annual Car Cruise-In and Music on Main. Residents of the more rural areas in Wingate and Marshville also visit the downtown area for Fourth of July fireworks and Halloween trick-or-treating. The Charlotte-Monroe Executive Airport helps organize the annual Veteran’s Day weekend Warbirds Over Monroe Air Show, during which planes fly overhead while vendors and nonprofit groups interact with attendants.
The Warbirds Over Monroe is a great event for the whole family.
Military pilots answer any questions about their aircraft at the Warbirds Over Monroe.
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MPD serves the city
Monroe is served by the Monroe Police Department and the Union County Sheriff’s Office. In 2023, there were 1,121 reported violent crimes and 1,327 nonviolent crimes. Compared to 2022 reports, violent crimes increased by more than 15% while nonviolent crimes declined by over 5%. Police officers work to improve their relationship with residents through community watch programs and the Police Athletic League.
Written By
Rylee Doyle
Photography Contributed By
Justin Stapp
Video By
Joshua Kassabian
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Robert Macleod,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Monroe, NC sell after 59 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Monroe, NC over the last 12 months is $450,001, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Spring is almost here... do not pass on this opportunity. This Energy Efficient, low-maintenance townhome pairs everyday comfort with an easy, lock-and-leave lifestyle. The main living spaces flow naturally for entertaining and daily routines, generous storage keeps things tidy, and natural light makes the home feel warm and inviting. Exterior care is handled by the HOA, so your weekends are
Beautifully Remodeled Historic Home on a Large Corner LotThis stunning historic home is perfectly positioned on a large corner lot, thoughtfully set back with mature trees creating a picturesque and private backdrop. Timeless full-brick architecture welcomes you, highlighted by a classic wrap-around covered front porch—ideal for relaxing and entertaining.Step inside the grand entrance,
Beautiful new construction 3 bedroom 2 1/2 bath. Convenient to shopping, restaurants, hospital, etc. Open floor plan with half bath downstairs, bedrooms and laundry up. One car garage and deck on back.
Denise MillikenCentral Carolina Real Estate Group LLC
Are you long for a spacious brick ranch on acreage? Do you hate the idea of an HOA telling you what you can and can't do? Located in Indian Trail, with nearly 3000 HLA, a 3 car garage and 3.18 acres, this brick ranch is just what you're looking for! The main floor consists of an updated kitchen, 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms and a bonus room. Open kitchen offers breakfast bar, SS, tons of
This charming 3-bedroom home features fresh paint & brand-new flooring throughout, creating a welcoming feel the moment you step inside. The spacious dining room is perfect for hosting dinners & special gatherings, while a cozy breakfast nook off the kitchen flows effortlessly into the living room, highlighting the home’s bright, open-concept design. Main level also includes half bath, laundry
Freshly back on the market—previous buyer’s situation changed. This fantastic home is now offered at $559,000! Don't miss out!! Come make your home in the sought-after Stratford subdivision. This spacious family home offers room to grow, entertain, and enjoy life in style. The main floor boasts a flexible layout with a home office and a bedroom next to a full bath—perfect for guests or
Priced to Sell | Over 5 Acres + Detached Garage | Massive Finished-Ready Basement Rustic charm meets rare acreage in this authentic log cabin set on over 5 private, wooded acres; a true retreat offering space, privacy, and unlimited potential. Tucked away in a peaceful natural setting, this property is ideal for those seeking quiet country living with room to expand, customize, and create
PRISTINE TOWN HOME | DUAL PRIMARY SUITES | ASSUMABLE FINANCING AVAILABLE Experience 2,129 square feet of modern living in this beautifully maintained Monroe townhome. This property is in turnkey condition, featuring a neutral interior and exterior paint palette and a bright, open-concept layout. The floor plan offers a rare dual primary suite configuration: one spacious suite is located on the
Experience easy living and everyday convenience at 5021 Markfield Ln—perfectly positioned in the desirable Weddington Pointe community. Just minutes from shopping, dining, and major commuter routes, this 2022-built home offers a lifestyle designed for connection, comfort, and low-maintenance enjoyment. Step inside to an open-concept layout where natural light and modern finishes create an
Rare Opportunity in Unionville! This charming brick ranch sits on a beautiful 1.50 acres, with an additional .97-acre lot available for purchase right next door. Enjoy the best of both worlds with a peaceful, country setting and easy access to Hwy 601 and the bypass. Inside, the open floor plan is filled with thoughtful upgrades, including a spacious kitchen with a huge island, granite
Enjoy the best of country living with this spacious property situated on a large lot, offering privacy, flexibility, and modern conveniences—without the restrictions of an HOA. The exterior features a well-equipped shed with two doors for easy access and its own water hookup, plus a second water hookup located at the rear of the property. A generator is already hooked up to the home, providing
The Grace features an island Kitchen located in the rear of the home with easy access to the Dining area and Great Room. The secondary Bedroom and Bath located at the front offers privacy from the Owner s Suite which is convenient to both the Kitchen and Laundry. Owner's Suite highlights include a coffered ceiling and separate dual vanities in the Owner s Bath. You can personalize the Grace
A kitchen-front layout highlights this open-concept floorplan. Windows flowing from the Kitchen to the Great Room fills the Emily with natural light. Owner's Suite highlights include a location tucked off the Great Room, separate dual vanities, and option to extend the rear of the home by four feet, increasing both the Owner s Suite and Lanai. Nine distinct exterior choices provide plenty of
Calling All Mountain Lovers & Horse Enthusiasts! This one-of-a-kind log cabin on 10 private acres in Union County offers the ultimate escape. The main level features 3 bedrooms, while the upper level includes a spacious bonus room with a private half bath. Inside you are welcomed in by a large living room with abundant natural light and exposed wooden beams that bring that rustic charm to life.
Model photos used for reference. Welcome to the Julia floorplan. This 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath home with a versatile Flex Room and a spacious 2-Car garage is located just a short stroll from the community s Amenity Center, picturesque nature trails, and a future Community Garden. Inside, the Owner s Bathroom offers a luxurious spa experience with a rain head shower, standard head, and an oversized
Located in Union County off Rocky River Road, this beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch home offers modern updates and comfortable living on a half-acre lot. The home features LVP flooring throughout and a bright, open layout. The updated kitchen features stainless steel appliances, new countertops, and ample cabinet space, ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. Just off the
300 East Hudson Street, Monroe, NC 28112 Move in special! Move in this month and enjoy $150 off for the first three months. First three months at the discounted rate of $1125 and then back to original rate of $1275 for the remainder of the lease term! Come and view this beautiful unit with 1Br, 1Ba. Residing in this Property will Grant Access to all the Great Amenities the Up-and-Coming City of
This end unit condo is like new inside! Beautiful LVP flooring throughout the 1st floor, updated kitchen with brand-new stainless-steel appliances, laundry room is located underneath the stairs, and French doors that lead you out to the large patio and backyard. Both bedrooms are located on the second floor; they share a good size hall bathroom. HOA covers basic cable, internet, water and trash.
With the perfect combination of beauty and function, this property is truly unlike any other. From the perfect location, to the high-end amenities, to the personality built-in throughout the design, this estate is ready and waiting to become the ideal home. Keep browsing to check out the gallery and spec list, and reach out today to learn more.
This pet-friendly home features modern finishes and a functional layout with ample kitchen storage, spacious living areas, and abundant natural light throughout. The private yard offers space suitable for gardening or outdoor relaxation. Conveniently located near schools, parks, dining, and local amenities. Technology-enabled maintenance services provide added convenience, and self-touring is
Elevate Rocky River offers one- and two-bedroom apartment homes conveniently nestled between Matthews and Monroe. Indulge in the serene ambiance of our thoughtfully designed residences, where every detail is tailored to enhance your lifestyle. From modern finishes to spacious layouts, our pet-friendly apartment homes offer the perfect blend of style and comfort. Live effortlessly with premier
Be the first to live in this beautiful 2025 NEW CONSTRUCTION single-family home located just off the Monroe Bypass! This bright, modern home features an open-concept layout filled with natural light, brand-new stainless steel appliances, and a washer & dryer included. The main level offers a spacious living area that flows seamlessly into the kitchen, along with a convenient drop zone located by
Claudia RoseHoward Hanna Allen Tate Charlotte South
Beautifully landscaped and nestled under mature trees, Nottingham is conveniently located near shopping, dining and entertainment. We invite you to enjoy a lifestyle of comfort and convenience in our quiet neighborhood.You'll be delighted with a wide selection of amenities and features. The leasing staff is ready to help you find your new place. It's time to come home to Nottingham
Spacious 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath rental in Monroe, North Carolina. This property offers ample parking, open outdoor space, and a functional layout ideal for comfortable living. Enjoy the privacy of a large lot while still being conveniently located near shopping, dining, and major roadways. A great opportunity for tenants seeking space both inside and out.
Modern 3-Bed Home in Secrest Commons – Resort-Style Living!This brand-new single-story home offers open-concept living in the sought-after Secrest Commons community. Enjoy a spacious great room flowing into a gourmet kitchen with granite counters, tile backsplash, stainless appliances, and ample cabinetry.Features include 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, a private primary suite, and a 2-car
Redwood Monroe is where youll find the single-story apartment you've been looking for. Live in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom, pet-friendly apartment rental home with an attached garage. Enjoy being surrounded by charming greenery, with all the amenities of Monroe. Plus, you can get to all the arts, entertainment, dining and attractions of Charlotte in just 35 minutes. But more than that, you can
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