Pros and Cons of Living in Waxhaw NC - Moving to Waxhaw North Carolina
Overview: Is Waxhaw Right for You?
Located in Union County just south of Charlotte, Waxhaw, North Carolina, blends small-town charm with easy access to a major metro. In this video, real-estate expert Steve Jarrell highlights the top advantages—and a few challenges—of calling Waxhaw home.
Major Advantages of Living in Waxhaw
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A-Rated Union County Schools
Schools such as Cuthbertson, Marvin Ridge, and Weddington routinely score 10/10 on GreatSchools.org and offer robust programs for special-needs students, arts, and athletics.
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Beautiful Communities & Green Space
Rolling horse farms, mature trees, and new-construction neighborhoods provide a scenic backdrop while the historic Downtown Waxhaw delivers dining and shopping only minutes away.
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Favorable Property Taxes
Union County’s tax rate is lower than nearby Mecklenburg County and many out-of-state markets, allowing buyers to stretch their housing budget.
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Steady Home-Value Appreciation
Rapid population growth (108% from 2010-2020) and limited land supply continue to push prices upward, making Waxhaw attractive for long-term equity.
Challenges You Should Know
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Traffic & Congestion
Two-lane arteries such as Providence Road and Cuthbertson Road back up during rush hour and school pick-ups while road-widening projects catch up to growth.
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Wildlife Encounters
Expect to see deer, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, and the occasional non-venomous black snake (and rare copperhead) thanks to the area’s preserved green space.
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Limited Housing Inventory
Homes average 6 days on market and new listings are down 28% year-over-year, so buyers may need temporary rentals and a knowledgeable agent to compete.
Quick Comparison Table
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Top-tier schools (10/10 ratings) | Rush-hour congestion on key roads |
| Low Union County taxes | Tight housing inventory |
| Scenic neighborhoods & greenways | Wildlife (snakes, deer, coyotes) |
| Strong home-value growth | Rapid development causing growing pains |
Key Takeaways
If you’re searching for award-winning schools, country charm, and lower taxes within 40 minutes of Uptown Charlotte, Waxhaw is tough to beat. Just be ready for some traffic, occasional wildlife, and a competitive real-estate market.
