Union County as a whole is one of the fastest growing areas in North Carolina, and Waxhaw has seen a similar trend. The city was established in 1889 and was named after the Waxhaw Native American tribe that lived there before it was settled. A textile boom in the 1800s lasted until the 1940s, and the city had a resurgence in the 1960s and 2000s with the downtown commercial scene. Today, Waxhaw balances its history by preserving historical landmarks while continuing to welcome fast-paced growth.
“Basically, Waxhaw is a suburb of Charlotte,” says Josh Burnett, a Waxhaw local and team lead of J. Burnett Realty Group. “You have a small-town atmosphere, but you’re five to 10 minutes from south Charlotte. We’ve got a lot of restaurants and shops, and the school system is rated really well. There’s a rich history, too. It’s the birthplace of Andrew Jackson, and it was on an old Native American trading route.”
Waxhaw was established in 1889 and was named after the Waxhaw Native American tribe.
Waxhaw has a long history with the railroads.
Waxhaw had a textile boom in the 1800s lasted until the 1940s.
Waxhaw balances its history by preserving historical landmaks.
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Constantly growing population and busy downtown scene
Waxhaw’s population grew over 108% from 2010 to 2020. Today, over 20,500 people call the city home. Waxhaw has a 67.7% employment rate, and the Charlotte Observer ranked the town as one of the best places to work in 2023. Anyone who doesn’t own a business or work in town has a roughly 30-minute commute to Uptown Charlotte, not counting traffic.
The Nationally Accredited Downtown has over 100 small businesses. The Downtown Waxhaw Association works to preserve the historic buildings while still making them usable for new businesses. A brand-new town hall and surrounding complex were officially opened to the public in late 2024, and more renovations are on the way with the Waxhaw 2040 plan, aimed at improving daily life and accommodating future growth.
The Downtown Waxhaw Association preserve the historic buildings like The Women's Club.
Many residents own business like the Iris and Poppy Boutique.
Downtown Waxhaw has over 100 small business.
A brand-new Waxhaw town hall just officially opened to the public.
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Broad price ranges and new Craftsman homes
Home prices range from the mid $300,000s to almost $1 million across the city. “Depending on the type of housing you’re looking for, you can find cheaper housing than you can in Charlotte,” says Burnett. “But ... there are some high-end luxury neighborhoods as well. Pricing has increased year-over-year, looking at the three years. Compared to this time last year, the median price is up 11.3% at $679,000.”
Ranch-style homes and Craftsmans close to downtown usually make up the lower end of the price range. Most homes are three-bedroom Craftsmans built as recently as 2024. Areas like Millbridge, Cureton and Lawson are the most popular. “I have a listing in Millbridge, and a family from Lawson was looking to move to Millbridge. They’re similar neighborhoods, but the family wanted a different home style for their needs. These neighborhoods are only a couple miles apart, but they wanted to stay in the same area.” On average, Waxhaw has all four seasons, with humid summers and mild winters.
Craftsman style homes near downtown Waxhaw are also a popular option.
New traditional homes in neighborhoods like Millbridge are most popular in Waxhaw.
You can also find larger higher end traditional homes in Waxhaw.
Ranch style homes make up the lower end of the price range in Waxhaw.
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Moving to town for Union County Schools
The Union County Public Schools District is one of the major reasons people move to Waxhaw. It has a lower student-to-teacher ratio than Charlotte-Mecklenburg County, and Niche gives it an A. As of 2023, 96.7% of residents have a high school diploma, and 53.8% have at least a bachelor’s degree. Waxhaw alone has six schools. Waxhaw Elementary School earns an A-minus, and Cuthbertson High School gets an A.
Waxhaw Elementary School provides education in the neighborhood of
Union County.
Cuthbertson Middle School provides education in the neighborhood of
Union County.
South Providence School provides education in the neighborhood of
Union County.
Cuthbertson High School provides education in the neighborhood
Union County.
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Brand-new Downtown Park and historic places to visit
Town Creek Park has a playground, but most residents park there before walking the Twelve Mile Creek Greenway. The Southwest Regional Library opened in April 2024, and it’s the newest branch of the Union County Library. Harvey Clay Nesbit Park features soccer and baseball fields, but Downtown Park is Waxhaw’s largest park, with 9 acres holding an amphitheater, play area, pond and paved walking paths. Downtown Park opened in 2024 and was designed to have enough space for events organized by the Waxhaw Parks and Recreation Department. The Jammin’ by the Tracks and Music in the Park will be combined into one summer concert series held at the park, and the area will become a little winter wonderland for the annual Menorah and tree lighting ceremony. Residents from across Union County, even from South Carolina, visit for the two-day Autumn Treasures event in November. In 2024, over 100 vendors participated while musicians performed.
The city stays true to its motto, “Proud of Our Past. Passionate About Our Future," with The Museum of Waxhaw. The museum tells the story of the Waxhaw tribe and European settlers who paved the way to Waxhaw’s founding. The Waxhaw Overhead Bridge is one of the many historic landmarks in the city today. The bridge was built in 1888 for cars, but it was renovated so pedestrians can safely cross, even as trains rumble across the tracks below.
The younger residents of Waxhaw love the new playground at the Downtown Park.
You can take an evening walk on the paved trail at the Town Creek Park in Waxhaw.
The Southwest Regional Library in Waxhaw is the newest branch in Union County.
The Twelve Mile Creek Greenway in Waxhaw is popular with residents.
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Waxhaw Police and Union County Sheriff activity
The Waxhaw Police Department and Union County Sheriff’s Office patrol the city. From 2022 to 2023, reported nonviolent crimes decreased 31%, while reported violent crimes rose 7%. In 2022, the EPA reached a settlement with the New-Indy Paper Mill in South Carolina after many residents across South Carolina and Union County filed complaints of a rotten egg smell from the mill’s emissions. The New Indy Containerboard facility now posts daily air sample reports on its website, and residents who smell the odor can report it to the New Indy site.
Downtown Waxhaw shopping and nearby commercial centers
Downtown Waxhaw is full of boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops and small commercial businesses. Narrow sidewalks run throughout the historic downtown, and the city is working to add wider concrete sections for easier strolling. Shoppers don’t have to worry about feeding a parking meter, as the city offers free parking downtown.
On South Main Street, Maxwell’s Tavern serves lunch and dinner in a brick building with ambient lighting and a bar. The Waxhaw Antique Mart is a few doors down with tidy collections of decor and trinkets. Crossroads Coffee House started in 1999, and every cup of coffee brewed is made with coffee beans roasted in-house. National chains and grocery stores fill the Old Hickory Shopping Center and Cureton Town Center. Waxhaw's Farmers' Market was established in 2001, and the weekend event has continued to be successful. Residents stop by to shop locally produced items from vendors, from skincare and woodworking to vegetables and fresh bread.
Maxwell’s Tavern is a popular choice for lunch and dinner in Waxhaw.
The Waxhaw Antique Mart in Waxhaw has a collections of decor and trinkets.
You can find national chains like Harris Teeter at the Cureton Town Center in Waxhaw.
You can grab a freshly roasted cup of coffee at the Crossroads Coffee House in Waxhaw.
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Getting around town and to Uptown Charlotte
Downtown Waxhaw is 5 miles from the South Carolina border and 28 miles from Uptown Charlotte. When driving to Uptown, State Route 16 leads north and connects to I-485. Atrium Health Waxhaw is also on Highway 16, with an emergency room and routine medical services. Waxhaw has multiple churches along Main Street and Highway 16, including Waxhaw United Methodist Church, dedicated in 1928. Most residents commute by car, as Waxhaw’s only public transportation is through U Can Go!, Union County’s on-demand transportation buses. Riders have to book a ride at least 48 hours in advance, and the buses run from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Charlotte Douglas International Airport is 31 miles north, about a 40-minute drive.
Written By
Rylee Doyle
Photography Contributed By
Ryan Gwilliam
Video By
Emily McNamara
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 Waxhaw, NC sell after 49 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Waxhaw, NC over the last 12 months is $1,040,000, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac in sought-after Quellin, this full brick home offers the perfect blend of privacy, comfort, and timeless appeal. Situated on a serene, wooded lot, the backyard feels like your own private retreat—ideal for relaxing or entertaining. Inside, you’ll find an immaculate interior with a spacious, functional layout highlighted by a stunning two-story living room filled
Welcome to 440 Old Town Village Rd, where modern design and small-town charm come together in this stunning three-story Duncan townhome. A covered front entry welcomes you inside, where the first floor offers a private fourth bedroom with a full bath featuring a tiled walk-in shower, ideal for guests or a home office. Ascend the elegant oak box stairs with open rails to the second floor, where
Experience refined townhome living in the Bushwick II, the stunning model home plan at Westview Towns-perfectly located just minutes from the boutique shops, dining, and timeless charm of historic Downtown Waxhaw. This beautifully designed end-unit townhome blends light-filled living spaces, elegant finishes, and the comfort of a private backyard oasis. Expansive windows overlook the serene
Sought after area of Waxhaw. Four bedrooms/ 2.5 bathrooms on the second floor. Office with French doors and Dining Room on the main level with open kitchen/ family area in the back of the house. Kitchen updates include new granite countertops and backsplash and island with wood top. Primary Bath was also updated with new shower and soaking tub.Enjoy your backyard patio with beautiful summer
THE BEST LUXURY VALUE IN WEDDINGTON! Meticulously maintained & visually stunning, this residence delivers a level of refinement that truly stands apart... Strategically positioned at a price point designed to move, 113 Campbell Court offers nearly 4,800 sq.ft. of refined living in the prestigious Weddington Preserve neighborhood. And zoned for Weddington Schools! The first thing visitors notice
Welcome to 5404 Cotton Top Court, an exceptional estate nestled on 1.569 acres in the serene countryside of Waxhaw, where refined living meets thoughtful design. Spanning an impressive 5,495 square feet, this three-level residence offers a rare blend of elegance, privacy, and versatility—perfectly suited for today’s discerning buyer seeking both luxury and functionality. From the moment you
A rare opportunity— a prime interior larger lot which with a view. Premium upgrades, and move-in ready comfort Welcome home to effortless luxury and vibrant community living. Absolutely charming and beautifully upgraded, This 3 Bedroom + Office home sits on a desirable corner lot across from a wooded area in Encore at Streamside—David Weekley’s premier 55+ Waxhaw community. Thoughtfully designed
Welcome to 1025 Sherringham Way in The Gardens on Providence, a quiet custom community in the heart of Weddington, NC, perfectly positioned between Charlotte and Waxhaw with convenient access to I-485 and located in the highly sought-after Marvin School District.Life here feels different.Mornings begin with sunlight pouring into the screened porch as you sip coffee overlooking your
Full brick home located in the award winning Marvin school district, what else could you ask for?! Start your next chapter in a home where the major updates are already done for you—featuring a brand new roof and newly installed 7-zone irrigation system (2025). This full brick home welcomes you with an inviting rocking chair front porch, perfect for slow mornings or relaxing evenings. Inside,
Welcome to 8004 Penman Springs Drive in Waxhaw—an inviting and spacious home offering a versatile layout and exceptional indoor-outdoor living. The main level features a full bedroom and bath, ideal for guests or multigenerational living, along with a formal dining room and formal living room that provide elegant spaces for entertaining. A welcoming great room with a fireplace flows seamlessly
Welcome to The Charleston that combines spacious living with thoughtful functionality. Situated in the serene community of Waxhaw, residents enjoy a blend of small-town charm and modern conveniences. With a quaint downtown, and proximity to Charlotte, Waxhaw offers an ideal setting for families and professionals. Step into the home's foyer set between a dining room and a flex space, perfect for a
New Construction Opportunity in Waxhaw, NC! With a quaint downtown, and proximity to Charlotte, Waxhaw offers an ideal setting for families and professionals. This home is nestled on a beautiful homesite home featuring the elegant Roanoke floor plan. Step onto the spacious front porch and into a welcoming foyer. A private study is perfect for a home office. Spacious family room with vaulted
Welcome to this impeccably maintained and beautifully designed 4-bedroom home with a private office, offering refinedliving spaces and exceptional outdoor serenity — complete with stunning design choices and upgrades throughout. Inside,an open floor plan creates a seamless flow between the main living areas, highlighted by soaring tray ceilings, rich crownmolding, wainscoting,
Welcome to this impeccably maintained home perfectly blending comfort, function, and lifestyle. The inviting front porch sets the tone for what awaits inside. Step into a bright, open-concept floor plan thoughtfully designed for modern living and effortless entertaining. At the heart of the home is a stunning kitchen featuring an oversized granite island, ideal for gatherings, casual meals, or
Located in the prestigious gated community of Chatelaine in Waxhaw, this exquisite 3-story Old World Architectural Style Home showcases gorgeous stonework on the exterior and an interior where every room offers something unique from soaring cathedral ceilings to custom wood finishes and detailed moldings throughout. Three floor-to-ceiling stone fireplaces anchor the living rooms on the main and
Welcome to 704 Deer Cross in the highly sought-after Hunter Oaks community, zoned for top-rated Marvin Ridge schools. This stunning full brick home is in immaculate, move-in ready condition and shows beautifully throughout. Step inside to find hardwood floors across the main level, complemented by updated lighting and a bright, open feel. The kitchen features quartz countertops, stainless steel
With two distinct luxury buildings, the Waxhaw Mills Apartments gives you choices. Offering luxury living in the premier area in Waxhaw, residents come home to all-inclusive amenities like our resort-style pool, renovated clubhouse, and dog park. With the most up-to-date selection of amenities and relaxing views, our community is a merging of luxury amenities with modern comforts and
-Large 4-bedroom, 3-Large, plus bonus room home in the neighborhood of Cureton. Home has beautiful entry w/ hardwoods throughout. Special touches include wainscoting, crown molding & vaulted ceilings. Separate dining room & fabulous kitchen w/ granite & SS appliances. Huge great room w/ gas fireplace. Master bedroom/bath has it all w/ sitting area, dual closets, separate garden tub & shower.
Reduced deposit: Get 25% off your security deposit based on 1 month's rent (taxes and fees not included), valid for new applicants who sign a 12-month lease by May 31, 2026. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. Live in this recently-constructed property located in the Lindsay Meadows community.This property is
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.This home is priced to rent and won't be around for long. Apply now, while we make this home ready for you, or call to arrange a meeting with your local Progress Residential leasing specialist
We make Pre-Leasing easy! Apply now and, once you’re approved, take this home off the market by paying a Pre-Lease Hold Fee; ask your Leasing Professional for more information. Once the home is made ready, we'll notify you that it's available for touring and for you to accept or decline. If you decline the home, we'll be happy to help you find a different home or refund your Hold Fee. This home
Reduced deposit: Get 25% off your security deposit based on 1 month's rent (taxes and fees not included), valid for new applicants who sign a 12-month lease by May 31, 2026. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. This property is professionally managed by AMH, a leading single-family rental company. We work to simplify
Some photos may feature virtual furniture staging, which is intended to help visualize the space and potential designs. The rental home does not come with any furniture shown in the images and these virtual images do not represent actual furnishings. Residents must furnish their own home.Please note that the advertised price may exclude additional fees. These include a $55 application fee per
Reduced deposit: Get 25% off your security deposit based on 1 month's rent (taxes and fees not included), valid for new applicants who sign a 12-month lease by May 31, 2026. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. This property is professionally managed by AMH, a leading single-family rental company. We expect to make
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
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 $3134.70. That covers your base rent, $2995.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
Beautiful, pet-friendly home coming soon! Apply now, Move-In is available on or after the listed date. Upon approval, $500 reservation deposit to reserve (applied to security deposit and/or refundable). Application fee: $50 per adult. Security Deposit: one month?s rent. Pet fees: $250 + $40/mo per pet. Some homes may include pool ($150/mo), septic ($15/mo), and/or HOA fees; other fees may apply.
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