Concord, NCBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Just outside Queen City, Concord is the crown jewel of North Carolina. This vibrant city is rooted in history and has a charming downtown and close-knit community, fostering a sense of belonging.
More About Living in North Carolina
Concord, NC, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
Concord means to be in a state of agreement or harmony, and in Concord, NC, it’s easy to live a harmonious life. Within commuting distance of Charlotte, the largest city in North Carolina, Concord is the perfect blend of a quaint, Southern town and an up-and-coming metropolis, making it one of the best places to live in the U.S.
Outside of its proximity to Charlotte (less than 30 miles!), Concord is also near several scenic attractions, including Lake Norman and the Uwharrie National Forest. As a result, residents can enjoy a safe environment with plenty of conveniences, from shopping to dining and entertainment.
But you don’t have to leave Concord to experience the good life. The historic downtown and surrounding parks give Concord a peaceful vibe and contribute to the tight-knit community and friendly atmosphere the city is known for. In addition, the area has a rich history and offers a variety of cultural events and activities, including festivals, museums and galleries.
Concord also has a lower cost of living compared to many other major cities in the United States, making it an affordable place to live for families and young professionals. Another contributing factor is the quality of life. Concord has a relatively low crime rate, good schools and various entertainment options.
History buffs will love visiting the nearby Reed Gold Mine, a historic site that was the first documented gold mine in the country, and the Cabarrus County Historical Museum, which features exhibits on the history of the area, like the development of the NASCAR industry. And, if you have the need for speed, Concord is home to the Charlotte Motor Speedway, attracting fans and making the city a major player in the auto racing industry.
Concord, NC Quality of Life LivScore
Concord, NC Top Categories
Housing & Cost of Living
Economy
Transportation
Concord ranks highest for housing, economy and transportation.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Concord, NC
Summers in Concord are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to the low 90s during the day. Winters, however, are generally mild and range from the mid-40s to the low 50s and drop down into the 30s at night. The spring and fall are pleasant.
The average annual snowfall in Concord is relatively low at just 3 or 4 inches per year. The peak of the winter season is in January and February, so if snow accumulates, it’s typically during that period.
The average annual rainfall in Concord is 44 inches. The wettest months of the year are typically July and August.
Concord averages 214 sunny days a year.
The Frank Liske Park is a sprawling 238-acre park complete with a lake for fishing and paddleboating, plenty of picnic sites, and sports complexes for playing volleyball, softball or even horseshoe.
Concord Weather
214 days
Average Annual Sun
44 inches
Average Annual Rain
3.5 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Concord, NC
Concord is home to the Charlotte Motor Speedway, where a variety of races take place, from stock cars to motorbikes and dirt track racing. Auto racing fans can also get their fix at one of the many racing school experiences at the Speedway.
The SEA LIFE Aquarium at Concord Mills provides a fun and educational experience for the whole family. Walking through the 180-degree ocean tunnel, kids will be awed by a variety of fish, sharks and other sea creatures.
Concord Mills draws visitors from near and far as North Carolina’s largest shopping outlet. But far from just a shopping mall, Concord Mills is also home to an aquarium, various restaurants and a movie theater.
For a fine dining experience, check out Gianni’s Trattoria for authentic Italian food in the heart of the South. Their executive chefs relocated from New York and opened a warm and welcoming Italian restaurant in Concord.
The Local and State Economy in Concord, NC
Concord has a diverse economy, with a range of industries that contribute to its growth. Some of the major sectors include advanced manufacturing, logistics and health care. Even more? Concord is also known as the “Home of Motorsports” and is the home of Charlotte Motor Speedway, zMAX Dragway and several other racing facilities.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Concord is 7%.
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax.
Concord is home to several highly-ranked health care providers and facilities, including Atrium Health-Cabarrust and Novant Health. Atrium Health is a 457-bed hospital providing a range of services to patients in several specialties.
Although there aren’t any major colleges or universities in Concord, there are several higher-education institutions in nearby Charlotte.
Quick Facts About Concord, NC
- Median Household Income
- $73,668
- Median Home Value
- $285,949
- Average State Property Tax
- $1,583
- Total Population
- 109,987
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $977
- Average Commute
- 22.8 minutes
An affordable cost of living, a variety of housing options and a safe community all contribute to Concord’s ranking as one of the best places to live in the U.S. Learn about living in Concord and other affordable cities in North Carolina. Another good resource as you consider a move: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.
