Moving to Kannapolis, NC? Here’s What You Need to Know

Are you interested in moving to Kannapolis, North Carolina? You’re in luck—this small but growing town offers a perfect balance of classic southern charm and modern amenities. While it’s part of the Charlotte metropolitan area, Kannapolis has its own unique character that sets it apart. Here’s what makes the city of Kannapolis, NC such an exciting place to live.

Location

Kannapolis is located roughly 25 miles northeast of Charlotte and sits on the border of Cabarrus and Rowan counties. For those looking to commute into Charlotte, the drive takes approximately 40 minutes. There is also an Amtrak station in downtown, which provides service to Charlotte and to other major cities throughout the East Coast.

In addition to being close to Charlotte, Kannapolis is also within driving distance of other major cities like Winston-Salem and Greensboro. This makes it an ideal location to explore everything that North Carolina has to offer.

Climate

One of the biggest benefits of living in the area is the mild climate. While Kannapolis does experience all four seasons, winters are very mild and snowfall is rare. Summers can get very hot, but humidity isn’t as intense as in many other Southern cities.

Since Kannapolis has such mild weather, it’s a great place to live if you enjoy spending time outdoors. The area is known for its excellent parks, and there are many running and biking trails to explore as well.

Housing Market

As with many other parts of the Charlotte metropolitan area, the housing market is booming. You’ll find a mix of vintage charm and new construction options. Most properties here are suburban single-family homes with large yards, so there’s plenty of room to spread out and relax. There are also some condo options in Kannapolis’s rapidly-growing downtown area.

Job Market

Cabarrus County also has a growing job market with opportunities in a wide range of industries, both in Kannapolis proper and in nearby Charlotte. Kannapolis is notably home to the North Carolina Research Campus, which is a major scientific research center that focuses on agriculture and nutrition research. This campus is one of the largest employers with over 1,000 employees. There are also many job opportunities in nearby Concord, which is home to the Carolina Mall and a Sysco food distribution center.

Schools

Families moving to the area will find plenty of high-quality schools to choose from, with both public and private options available. Rowan-Cabarrus Community College is also located in the Kannapolis area.

North Carolina is home to so many incredible universities, many of which are within driving distance. For example, the University of North Carolina Greensboro, Wake Forest University, and Duke University are all less than two hours away.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Kannapolis is 4.3% lower than the national average, which means that you’ll get plenty of bang for your buck while living here. Mortgage and rent prices, gas prices, and food prices are all very manageable when compared to those of other cities.

However, the cost of living is slightly higher than the North Carolina average. Like many other parts of the Charlotte metro area, costs have risen slightly as the population grows and demand for new homes increases.

Things to Do

There’s no shortage of fun things to do in town. The area has a rich history, a vibrant downtown commercial district, and plenty of beautiful nature nearby. Here are some of the most notable things to do in and around the Kannapolis area.

Relax at Village Park

Village Park is one of Kannapolis’s most popular gathering places and offers activities for the entire family. Kids will enjoy riding on North Carolina’s only double-decker carousel, which dates back to the 1800s. There’s also a charming miniature train that kids can ride and a splash pad that opens in the summer. Adults will enjoy the park’s amphitheater and running trails.

Interesting facts about the Village Park Rotary Train in Kannapolis, NC:

History:

It’s a G-24 scale replica of a real CP Huntington engine, making it a miniature marvel!
The train was donated to the park in 1990 by the Kannapolis Rotary Club, hence the name “Rotary Train.”
It’s not just for show! The train actually runs on a 1,800-foot track that winds through the park, offering a fun and scenic ride for visitors.

Operation:

It’s one of the most affordable attractions in the park, with tickets costing only $1.50 per ride.
The train operates seasonally, running on weekends from April to mid-October and daily throughout the summer.
In 2023, the park acquired a second, electric engine, which is handicap accessible, doubling the capacity and ensuring everyone can enjoy the ride.

Extra fun:

During the holiday season, the train transforms into the Winterland Express, complete with festive decorations and lights, offering a magical Christmas experience.
The train is a popular spot for birthday parties and special events, adding a unique touch to any celebration.
It’s a local favorite, cherished by generations of families who have created lasting memories aboard the Village Park Rotary Train.

Eat and Shop in Downtown Kannapolis

Downtown is small but charming, with an excellent selection of restaurants and shops to explore. Grab a pint at the Old Armor Beer Company, find your next read at Editions, or enjoy an upscale dinner at Chophouse 101.

You’ll also find the Dale Earnhardt Plaza in downtown. This is a tribute to the NASCAR icon, who grew up in Kannapolis and raised his family here. The plaza features a 10-foot-tall statue of Earnhardt.

Visit the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame

The North Carolina Music Hall of Fame is located in Kannapolis. The Hall of Fame is free to visit and has interactive exhibits featuring North Carolina’s most famous musicians. It is located in Curb Records & Motorsports, which also has a very impressive collection of race cars.

Watch the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers

The Kannapolis Cannon Ballers are the town’s Minor League Baseball team, with games scheduled throughout the year. They are a Single-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox and play in downtown Kannapolis.

Catch a Show at the Gem Theater

The Gem Theater is a historic movie theater located in downtown. It dates back to the 1940s and is known for its ornate interior. Seeing a show here will transport you to the movie theaters of the past and makes for an excellent night out with your partner, friends, or family.

Take a Day Trip to Lake Norman

Lake Norman is a beautiful man-made lake located just 30 minutes away. If you enjoy boating or fishing, the lake is a must-visit, particularly in the summer months. The area surrounding Lake Norman is also known for its golf clubs.

Explore Kannapolis, NC

Kannapolis truly has something for everyone, whether you’re a single professional, a young family, or a retiree looking for a place to settle down. There are so many activities to explore, so it’s hard to get bored in this charming town. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that so many people are moving to the Kannapolis area. If you’re feeling curious, plan your visit to city known by Dale Earnhardt fans as the “Intimidator City.”