10 Things to Know Before Moving to Concord, NC

Nestled in the heart of Cabarrus County, Concord, North Carolina, is a charming city that offers a vibrant blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This city has a population of 111,659 residents, ranking it as the 10th largest city in North Carolina.

From the local lifestyle to the job market, housing options, recreational activities, and quality healthcare, North Carolina has a lot to offer.

Let’s dive into 10 things you need to know before moving to Concord, NC!

1. Concord has a thriving economy

Concord boasts a robust and diverse economy, making it an ideal place for career opportunities. The city is home to major industries such as healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retails.

Concord Mills, one of the largest malls in the state, is located in this city, and it offers lots of employment opportunities to residents. Other top employers include Great Wolf Lodge and Reserve, Atrium Health, Hendrick Motorsport, and S&D Coffee and Tea.

Concord also offers various resources and incentives for businesses, including tax credits, making Concord a great place to start a business. 

2. Living expenses are 6% lower than the national average

One of the advantages of living in Concord is its affordable cost of living, which is 6% less than the national average.

Utilities are 8% lower than the national average. Transport expenses are 7% less than the national average. Groceries cost 3% less than the national average. A loaf of bread costs $3.78, a gallon of milk costs $2.37, and a carton of eggs costs $2.19.

Housing prices are also lower than the national average by 21%. The median home price is $267,847. Healthcare costs are, however, 13% higher than the national average. Notwithstanding, living in Concord allows you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle and potentially save more money.

3. Visit Memorial Garden or Reed Gold Mine for some rich history scenes

Memorial Garden is located in downtown Concord, and it is a peaceful space great for reflection. It honors the memory of the soldiers from Cabarrus County who lost their lives in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The garden features beautiful landscaping, plaques, and a memorial fountain, making it an intriguing place for history buffs.

You can also visit Reed Gold Mine, located just outside of Concord. This is also a historic site that played a significant role in America’s gold rush. It is the site of the first documented gold find in the United States, sparking the nation’s first gold rush in 1799. You can tour the underground mine, explore exhibits, and even try your hand at panning for gold.

4. Enjoy outdoor activities at Great Wolf Lodge Water Park or North Cabarrus Park

If you’re a nature enthusiast, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors in Concord. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including parks, lakes, and trails.

The Great Wolf Lodge Water Park is a favorite spot for families, offering thrilling water slides and pools. North Cabarrus Park is also a great place to visit. It is a spacious park that caters to a range of outdoor interests, and it features walking and biking trails, soccer fields, basketball courts, and a dog park. There are also picnic areas, a fishing pond, and a playground, making it an ideal place for a day of outdoor fun.

If you love outdoor activities, then you’ll enjoy living here.

5. The city has a racing heritage 

Concord proudly embraces its racing heritage as the “Racing Capital of the Carolinas.” Concord is home to the renowned Charlotte Motor Speedway and numerous NASCAR racing teams. Numerous NASCAR events, including the illustrious Coca-Cola 600 and the Bank of America Roval 400, are held at the speedway. 

Throughout the year, Concord has a calendar filled with exciting racing events, and if you’re a fan of racing, living in Concord will give you easy access to thrilling motorsports events. 

6. Concord is close to Charlotte and other big cities

Concord has a strategic location that provides its residents with easy access to major cities and attractions. The city is only 20 miles away from Charlotte, North Carolina’s largest city. Some other major cities close to Concord include Greensboro, approximately 70 miles northeast of Concord, and Winston-Salem, also approximately 70 miles west of Concord.

Concord’s great location and proximity to these major cities offer its residents a myriad of employment opportunities and cultural experiences.

7. A place for sports enthusiasts

Sports enthusiasts will find plenty of activities to enjoy in Concord. Beyond motorsports, the city offers a range of recreational opportunities. The local parks provide facilities for baseball, basketball, soccer, and tennis. If you love golf, you can join the Rocky River Golf Club, a championship course known for its scenic views and challenging holes.

Additionally, this city is home to numerous sports fields, parks, and facilities for various athletic activities. The community’s passion for sports contributes to the energetic and active lifestyle enjoyed by residents of Concord.

8. Attend the Spring into Arts Festival and Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade

One of the most popular events in Concord is the Spring into Arts Festival. Organized by the Cabarrus Arts Council, this festival celebrates the arts and showcases the talents of local artists. The event features art exhibits, live performances, hands-on activities, and an array of vendors offering unique crafts and creations.

The Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade is another well-attended event here. This event kicks off the holiday season, and it features the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree, festive decorations, holiday-themed floats, marching bands, and a visit from Santa Claus. It’s a cherished tradition that brings the community together to celebrate the joy of the season.

Ultimately, Concord offers a diverse range of activities and festivities throughout the year, and that means there’s always something exciting happening for you to enjoy.

9. There’s a strong community spirit among residents

Concord is renowned for its strong community spirit, which fosters a sense of togetherness among its residents. The city’s close-knit community actively engages in various initiatives and events that promote unity and support.

Whether it’s through neighborhood associations, volunteer organizations, or community events, Concord’s residents consistently come together to support one another and build lasting connections. This vibrant community spirit creates a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, making it a place where you’ll feel a true sense of belonging and pride.

10. Quality healthcare facilities 

Concord boasts a reputation for providing quality healthcare services to its residents. The city is home to several top-notch medical facilities and healthcare providers, ensuring that the community has access to comprehensive and reliable healthcare.

Some of these healthcare centers include Atrium Health Cabarrus, Carolinas HealthCare Urgent Care-CConcord, Novant Health-GoHealth Urgent Care, and Cabarrus Family Medicine. These institutions offer a wide range of medical specialties and services, including primary care, specialized treatments, surgical procedures, and emergency care.

If you live in Concord, you can be sure of receiving high-quality medical attention when needed.

In Conclusion

Moving to Concord, NC, offers a multitude of advantages, from its thriving economy and affordable cost of living to its outdoor recreation opportunities and strong community spirit. By familiarizing yourself with these essential aspects of life in Concord, you’ll be better prepared to embrace the city’s uniqueness and make the most of your new home.