Your Monroe, NC Real Estate Questions Answered

Are you looking for that hidden gem of Charlotte metro living? A place where traffic isn’t bumper-to-bumper, the people still radiate southern hospitality, and the quality of life is still high? Then look southeast to Union County, and specifically, its county seat of Monroe, NC. It’s going under the radar right now, but it won’t for long. This forward-thinking city in Union County serves as the center of commerce, government, culture, and manufacturing. Learn about Monroe, NC, and what makes it a special place to buy a home.

About Monroe, NC

Get away from the city and enjoy the small-town charm of Monroe, NC. The historic downtown district looks and feels like a southern town from the big screens–probably because it is! Monroe has set the backdrop for several movies and television shows. A stately courthouse rises over tree-lined streets and vintage brick buildings, hinting at its rich history as a railroad hub. Even better are the friendly people who come for the antique car shows, outdoor summer concerts, and holiday events. Families love the top-ranked schools and all the activities for kids. It’s truly classic small-town living.

The distance from Monroe, NC, to Charlotte, is just 24 miles, or about 45 minutes depending on traffic. While still a small town, Monroe has experienced significant changes in recent years. New restaurants and shops, more community activities, and urban sprawl have brought more people into the area. Another perk are the Union County Schools, which rank among the top ten school districts in North Carolina. As you search for homes, view the attendance zone boundaries to see which ones your home is zoned for.

What county is Monroe, NC in?

Union County is home to over 43,000 people. It is part of the Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC Metropolitan Statistical Area in the North Carolina Piedmont region.

Union County is primarily agricultural, but it still offers many metropolitan conveniences like a commuter airport, shopping malls, and access to Charlotte. The unincorporated towns and villages sprinkled around the county offer a small-town feel. Many of these towns are continuing to grow and develop. The largest city by population in Union County is Indian Trail, followed by Monroe. Other cities include Stallings, Weddington, Waxhaw, Stanley, Wedgefield, and Marvin.

Today, Union County is growing economically and industrially, with business expansion centered along the I-85 corridor between Monroe and Charlotte. Union County’s favorable tax structure, readily available workforce, interstate access, and central location are all perks helping grow its economy. The companies include well-known brands like Corning, Teva Pharmaceuticals, Continental Tire North America (Charlotte), Veritiv paper distribution company (Indian Trail), Bayer CropScience, FedEx Freight (Monroe), and the Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Corporate Center.

Is Monroe, NC growing?

The US Census counted 34,562 residents in Monroe during April 2020. The number was just slightly up since 2010 when the Bureau counted 32,797 residents. It is growing at a rate of 0.35% annually. AS of 2023, it was up to almost 38,000 residents.

If you’re interested in living in Monroe, we have answers to your questions about the local real estate market.

What is the average listing price of a home in Monroe, NC?

In September 2024, the median home price for Monroe real estate was $386,370, a 0.9% year-over-year decrease. However, for the year-to-date ending that month, median home prices were $399,000, up 5%. Homes were typically on the market 38 days until sale. The monthly supply of inventory stood at 2.6 months, a 30% YOY increase.

Looking at 10-year trends, Monroe’s housing market has generally appreciated year over year. Starting in 2023, home price growth stabilized somewhat, with another small bump upward in spring 2024. Since then, pricing growth has returned to a slow but steady pace.

The more recent homes for sale in Monroe show price ranges from $55,000 for a 0.23-acre vacant lot to $1.23 million for four bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms on one acre. The local housing market also had selections of new construction homes and developments.

Are there any condos or townhomes available in Monroe, NC? 

You can find condo and townhome properties in Monroe. Single-family homes do dominate, but in November 2024 had 25 condos or townhomes on the market. The highest-priced listing was $381,000 for a new construction 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhome with 1,787 sq ft. The most affordable listing was a condo at $220,000 for two bedrooms, one bathroom, and 994 sq ft.

What is the property tax rate for Monroe, NC?

Union County, NC, property taxes charged $0.588 per $100 for property taxes in 2024-2025. Union County administers and collects annual property taxes for the municipalities. The City of Monroe charged a $0.5025 per $100 of assessed value property tax rate in 2024-2025. If you live in the downtown special district, there is an additional property tax of 0.1950 per $100 value. There is also a $30 motor vehicle tag fee. Union County last re-evaluated properties in 2021. You could have a special fire district tax if you live outside the city limits. 

What neighborhoods are in Monroe, NC?

Expanding Monroe is adding new neighborhoods at varying price points and amenities. The current existing neighborhoods with the highest median list price were Cedar Hill, Hampton Meadows, and The Oaks at Camden. The most affordable communities were Northwood, Rolling Hills, and Village of Woodbridge.

Historic homes are found closer to the old-fashioned downtown district. Find craftsmen-style homes with wide front porches, stately colonial homes, and ornate details around the eaves. A grid-like pattern and sidewalks adds to its walkability.

Some of the more established Monroe neighborhoods in the vicinity of downtown include Welsh Heights, Southwood Estates, and Briarwood Acres. These are slightly further from the historic area, but close to perks like schools and parks with playgrounds.

Grayson is a single-family home neighborhood typical of Monroe. Homes date back to 2007, and usually have 3-4 bedrooms and around two bathrooms. 

Potters Point has homes on more spacious lots, often 1-3 acres. Its single-family homes typically have four bedrooms and three bathrooms. 

Ashley Woods is a more established neighborhood. Homes here have three bedrooms and one bathroom.

Lakeview Estates is another established neighborhood. Homes were constructed between 1970-1991 with three to five bedrooms. The homes can be on lots up to an acre. 

Village Lakes homes tend to be on lots sized at an acre and above. The home styles are usually brick, from 3,000 to 4,000 sq ft, with two-car garages. The community does have a lake and lots of mature landscaping.

However, there are many more communities and developments to explore, and many of them are still growing, like Founders Pointe and Wellington Pointe. A local real estate agent can guide you to find the right Monroe home for you.

Are there any waterfront properties found in Monroe, NC? 

Yes, you can find waterfront properties, but there are not many. Your best bet is along Lake Twitty and around Lake Lee. Richardson Creek runs through part of Monroe and can be another location for waterfront properties. Dry Fork and Bearskin Creek are other possibilities for a property with a waterfront.

How is golf in Monroe, NC?

The Monroe Country Club is a municipal course. Famed architect Donald Ross designed the course in 1930. The Back 9 was added in 1980 and designed by Tom Jackson. It offers 40 boxes, champion Bermuda greens, two putting greens, and a practice green. The subtle elevation changes allow golfers of all skill levels to test their skills. 

Stonebridge Golf Club is another public course in Monroe. Richard Osborne designed it to take advantage of the natural landscape and scenic views. 

Rolling Hills Country Club has been a private country club in Union County for over 50 years. The founders created the country club as a “meeting place for friends.” Rolling Hills is a family-focused golf and country club with tennis and dining amenities.

Another 22 golf courses are accessible within 20 miles of Monroe. 

Are there golf course communities in Monroe, NC? 

If you want to live close to a golf course or have golf course views, your best bet is Stonebridge. The community has a Monroe zip code but is closer to Mineral Springs. 

A few homes back up to the Monroe Country Club and Rolling Hills Golf Course. The homes are not part of a golf course community, though, so you won’t have the formal amenities of a typical golf course community. 

What areas are near Monroe, NC?

Charlotte and its rich selection of entertainment, dining, and retail venues stand out about living in Monroe. Charlotte Douglas International Airport is just under 20 miles northwest of downtown Charlotte. You’ll also have places like Truist Field and Bank of America Stadium that are home to professional sports and host major touring music acts and performances. Enjoy the art museums and children’s museums while escaping the hectic daily traffic.

Mineral Springs is a more recently incorporated town located between Waxhaw and Monroe. While its history dates back to the 18th century, it received its current name when a mineral spring was discovered in 1912. The town is committed to preserving its small town look and vibes through managed development.

Indian Trail is a large town in Union County. It is the closest to Charlotte, but distinctly suburban living. Money Magazine named it “Best Place to Live in America” ten years running, and its large selection of activities for families makes it clear why. Indian Trail is just northwest of Monroe.

Small-town Waxhaw is another top place to live in the Charlotte metro and Union County. It shares the same high-quality schools found throughout the county, but with a more residential feel and southern access to Charlotte.

Union County shares its border with South Carolina. Be in another state within a 20-minute drive, enjoying more outdoor recreation options in Lancaster, Fort Mill, and Rock Hill.

Wilmington, NC, is about a three-hour drive from Monroe whenever you want a beach vacation. You can easily make a weekend trip to the Atlantic shoreline.

What are the perks of buying a home in Monroe, NC?

Affordability comes to mind first. Compared to nearby Charlotte and other nearby cities, Monroe has a lower cost of living, especially when it comes to housing. This affordability can make it an excellent choice for families, retirees, or anyone seeking more space without a high price tag.

Monroe, and really all of Union County, are excellent for the outdoor enthusiast. The town itself has many public parks, and nearby Lake Twitty is good for fishing and kayaking. Cane Creek State Park is popular for camping and swimming. The rural area is also near the Uwharrie National Forest for hiking, biking, and camping.

The people are another perk. Monroe has a close-knit, community-centered atmosphere, with seasonal festivals, farmer’s markets, and community gatherings throughout the year. Events like the Monroe Fall Festival and downtown parades bring residents together and make it easy to meet people and get involved.

What to know about living in Monroe, NC

When you’re looking for a home, what do you want? For most people, it’s affordable and conveniently located. You’ll find both of those things in Monroe, North Carolina. In Monroe, you’ll find more spacious properties with less traffic and a more rural feel compared to Charlotte. In some neighborhoods, homes are priced far below their Uptown counterparts.

If you want to live in Monroe, contact a local real estate agent to find the right neighborhood.

FAQs

What is the average commute time to Charlotte?

That greatly depends on traffic, but expect about 45 minutes from downtown Monroe to Uptown Charlotte during rush hour. The most direct route is on Andrew Jackson Highway, or State Highway 74. It’s about 15 miles to reach the Interstate-485 loop. 

What are some Monroe, NC, attractions?

Monroe is home to local wineries and farms, like the Treehouse Vineyards, which offer tours, tastings, and events. Aw Shucks Farm is particularly popular in the fall with its family-friendly pumpkin patch and seasonal activities. These spots give residents a taste of local produce and an opportunity to enjoy agritourism close to home.

Many like to visit Monroe for its preserved historic architecture along Main Street. Stroll boutiques, antique shops, restaurants, and galleries, as well as seasonal events like farmers markets and holiday parades.

The Union County Heritage Room in the Old Historic Courthouse showcases Monroe’s local history. Exhibits cover topics from early settlers to more recent developments, and the building itself is a beautiful example of early 20th-century architecture. The Jesse Helms Center is dedicated to the legacy of Jesse Helms, a former U.S. Senator from North Carolina. 

The Dowd Center Theatre is a historic, revitalized theater in downtown Monroe. Originally opened in 1940, it now hosts live performances, concerts, film screenings, and community events.

Monroe Science Center is a hands-on learning center for the whole family. Explore topics like rainforests, physics, and hydrology in a way that engages all the learner’s senses. 

Updated November 2024