Concord, NC Real Estate and Homes For Sale

Find Your Dream Home in Concord, NC

Concord, North Carolina is a thriving city that offers something special for everyone – from first-time homebuyers looking for an affordable start, to families seeking safe neighborhoods and great schools, to retirees craving a peaceful community, and even investors eyeing a growing market. Nestled in the Charlotte metropolitan area’s northeast quadrant, Concord blends small-town charm with big-city convenience, rich history with modern development. If you’re looking to find your dream home in a place with vibrant neighborhoods, strong job opportunities, and plenty of Southern hospitality, Concord deserves a closer look. Our local real estate expert, Melissa Zimmerman, is ready to guide you through this exciting market – read on to learn why Concord might be the perfect place for your next home, and how to get started!

Why Buy a Home in Concord, North Carolina

Concord stands out as one of the best places in North Carolina to put down roots. Here are a few compelling reasons to consider buying a home in Concord:

Affordable for First-Time Buyers: Concord’s housing prices are more attainable than many larger cities, allowing first-time buyers to enter the market without sacrificing on home features or location. The city offers a range of starter homes and newer townhomes at prices below nearby Charlotte’s median, making homeownership within reach. Plus, North Carolina offers generous first-time buyer programs (like down payment assistance) to help you get started.
Family-Friendly Lifestyle: With highly rated schools, numerous parks, and safe, welcoming neighborhoods, Concord is ideal for families. Kids can attend well-regarded public schools in the Cabarrus County Schools system (with 12 elementary, 7 middle, and 5 high schools in the Concord area) as well as quality private schools. Weekend family fun is always close by – whether it’s an outing to one of the local parks, the aquarium at Concord Mills, or a NASCAR race, there’s plenty to keep all ages entertained.
Appealing for Retirees: Retirees are discovering Concord for its relaxed pace and excellent quality of life. The cost of living is reasonable, healthcare is accessible (with a major regional hospital in town), and there are plenty of activities for active seniors – from golf courses to community events. Many neighborhoods offer single-story homes or low-maintenance options perfect for retirement living. The city’s friendly, community-oriented feel makes it easy to settle in and enjoy your golden years.
Strong Investment Potential: Concord’s population and economy are growing steadily, which bodes well for real estate values. The city’s population has increased by over 8% since 2020 alone, and new developments continue to spring up. For investors, this means a healthy demand for housing and rentals. Home values in Concord have been rising (the average home value is about $374,600, up 2.0% over the past year), yet remain more affordable than in Charlotte, giving room for appreciation. Whether you plan to rent out properties or flip homes, Concord’s expanding job market and influx of residents offer a promising environment for real estate investment.

History of Concord, NC: A Rich Heritage

One of Concord’s greatest assets is its deep, well-preserved history. Walking through the downtown streets, you’ll find reminders of a past that dates back over two centuries. Here’s a closer look at how Concord became the city it is today:

Concord was officially founded in 1796, making it one of North Carolina’s oldest cities. The area was first settled around 1750 by German and Scotch-Irish immigrants, and the name “Concord” literally means harmony – chosen to commemorate the spirit of compromise between these early settlers when deciding where to establish the county seat. In 1806, Concord was incorporated, and it quickly grew into an important trading center for the region’s cotton farmers. Court days in the 19th century would see downtown Concord bustling with farmers, merchants, and lawyers as the city thrived on agriculture and commerce.

During the late 1800s and early 1900s, textile mills became the driving force of Concord’s economy. Wealth from cotton and textiles allowed local entrepreneurs and planters to build grand homes along North and South Union Street – many of which still stand in Concord’s historic districts, showcasing beautiful Victorian and Colonial architecture. In fact, Concord was home to one of the first African American-owned cotton mills in the nation, the Coleman Manufacturing Company founded in 1897. This pioneering enterprise and others like it turned Concord into an early industrial hub in the Piedmont region.

Throughout the 20th century, Concord continued to evolve. It remained centered around its charming downtown through the 1970s, after which the city expanded westward toward Charlotte with new suburban developments. By the mid-20th century, Concord had also earned a place on the map for motorsports history – the famous Charlotte Motor Speedway opened just outside the city in 1960, cementing Concord’s reputation as a destination for NASCAR racing fans (more on that in a moment). Today, Concord honors its rich heritage with preserved historic sites, museums, and cultural events that celebrate the past even as the city moves boldly into the future.

(History comes alive in Concord. As you search for your home, you’ll appreciate the character that this heritage imparts – from the stately century-old homes on tree-lined streets to the historic courthouse square. Melissa can show you around the historic neighborhoods if you love homes with stories to tell!)

Top Attractions in and Around Concord

Beyond its history, Concord offers a wealth of attractions and activities. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a shopaholic, or a history buff, you’ll find plenty to see and do. Here are some of the top attractions that make Concord a fun place to live (and to visit):

Charlotte Motor Speedway & Motorsports Attractions

Concord is perhaps best known as the home of Charlotte Motor Speedway, one of the most iconic NASCAR tracks in the country. The Speedway hosts major races like the Coca-Cola 600 and Bank of America Roval 400 that draw fans from around the world. Living in Concord means these electrifying events happen practically in your backyard. The motorsports complex also includes the zMAX Dragway and dirt track, so there’s year-round racing action. Even outside of race days, you can take behind-the-scenes tours or attend driving experiences. For racing enthusiasts, Concord is a dream come true.

Concord Mills Mall

Shoppers rejoice! Concord Mills is one of North Carolina’s largest shopping and entertainment destinations. This massive indoor mall features over 200 stores, including popular outlet brands and specialty shops – from Bass Pro to Coach – plus a food court and many restaurants. It’s not just shopping either; Concord Mills has a 24-screen IMAX movie theater, an indoor aquarium (SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord), an indoor go-kart track, and even an escape room. It’s consistently ranked as one of the top tourist attractions in the state, drawing visitors from all over. As a Concord resident, you’ll have this retail and entertainment hub just minutes away for convenient shopping and weekend fun.

Historic Downtown Concord

The heart of Concord is its historic downtown area, a picturesque district that perfectly blends old-fashioned charm with modern flair. Here you’ll find beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, brick-paved sidewalks, and a lively mix of boutique shops, antique stores, art galleries, and locally owned restaurants. Be sure to visit the Cabarrus County Historic Courthouse and Museum to delve into local history. Downtown Concord often hosts community events – from art walks and holiday parades to live music on summer evenings. It’s a great place to spend a Saturday strolling, shopping, and dining. The sense of community is strong here, and many homebuyers fall in love with the quaint, Main-Street USA vibe that downtown Concord offers.

Reed Gold Mine

Just a short drive from Concord is the Reed Gold Mine, the site of the first documented gold discovery in the United States. In 1799 (before the California Gold Rush), a 12-year-old boy found a 17-pound gold nugget on the Reed family farm – kicking off the country’s first gold rush right here in Cabarrus County. Today, Reed Gold Mine is a state historic site where you can tour underground mining tunnels, see historic mining equipment, and even try your hand at panning for gold. It’s an educational and fun outing for all ages, and a unique piece of local history that Concord residents are proud of.

Great Wolf Lodge Water Park

If you’re looking for family fun, Concord has you covered with the Great Wolf Lodge, a popular family resort featuring a huge indoor water park. The resort includes water slides, pools, a lazy river, and splash areas all under one roof – perfect for year-round enjoyment (and a lifesaver for those hot Carolina summers with kids!). Even if you’re not staying at the lodge, local residents can get day passes to the water park. Great Wolf Lodge, along with other attractions like mini-golf, laser tag, and the K1 Speed indoor go-kart racing center, ensure that kids (and kids at heart) always have something exciting to do.

These are just a few highlights – Concord also boasts beautiful parks, sports venues, breweries, and more (we’ll explore more of these in the Entertainment and Outdoor Living section). Living in Concord means you’ll never be bored, with a perfect balance of thrilling attractions and relaxing recreation at your fingertips.

Education in Concord: Excellent Schools and Colleges

For homebuyers with children – or those planning for the future – Concord’s education options are a major draw. The city offers strong public schools, respected private schools, and convenient access to higher education. Here’s an overview of educational opportunities in Concord:

Public Schools (Cabarrus County Schools): Concord is served by the Cabarrus County Schools district, which is known for its dedication to student success. Within Concord itself, there are a dozen elementary schools, seven middle schools, and five high schools operated by the district. Schools like Jay M. Robinson High School, Concord High School, and Cox Mill High School (in the fast-growing Cox Mill area) offer robust academics and athletics. The district has earned accolades for student performance and innovative programs. Many parents choose Concord specifically for the quality of its public schools – a big plus for your home’s value as well.

Private and Charter Schools: In addition to public schools, Concord has excellent private education options. Notably, Cannon School is a top-tier independent school (Pre-K through 12) known for its rigorous academics and state-of-the-art campus. Concord Academy and Concord First Assembly Academy (a Christian school) are other popular choices for K-12 private education. These schools offer smaller class sizes and specialized curricula. There are also several charter schools and preschools in the area, giving parents a full spectrum of educational choices.

Higher Education: While Concord itself is not a large college town, it benefits from proximity to many higher education institutions. Within the city, you’ll find Rowan–Cabarrus Community College (RCCC), which has a Concord campus offering associate degrees, technical programs, and continuing education. RCCC is great for affordable education and workforce training right in town. Concord is also home to Cabarrus College of Health Sciences, a specialized college (associated with Atrium Health) that trains nurses and healthcare professionals– ideal for those pursuing medical careers. Historically, Concord was home to Barber-Scotia College, a historically black college; while it’s not currently active, its legacy is part of the city’s educational heritage. And just 20 miles down the road in Charlotte is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte), as well as several other colleges, making it easy for Concord residents to commute to larger universities.

In summary, Concord provides a well-rounded education environment: strong public schools for K-12, alternative options in private/charter schools, and convenient access to college programs. This educational infrastructure gives families confidence that their children can learn and thrive here from preschool all the way to college. (Want to know which school districts or campuses are near a particular home? Melissa Zimmerman can help you map out the schools so you find a home in the perfect school zone for your family.)

Nearby Towns and Cities

One of the perks of living in Concord is its fantastic location. You get the benefits of a mid-sized city, plus easy access to the larger Charlotte metro and charming surrounding communities. Here are a few key nearby towns and cities to know about:

Charlotte – North Carolina’s largest city is just about 25-30 minutes southwest of Concord. Charlotte offers big-city amenities – think major employers (Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Lowe’s HQ, etc.), professional sports teams (NFL’s Panthers, NBA’s Hornets, MLS soccer), museums, a vibrant dining scene, and an international airport. Concord residents often commute to Charlotte for work or entertainment, enjoying the “live in Concord, work in Charlotte” lifestyle. Being so close to Charlotte means you can catch a Broadway show or a Panthers game on the weekend, then return home to the quieter environs of Concord. This proximity greatly enhances Concord’s appeal, giving you the best of both worlds.
Kannapolis – Directly to the north of Concord lies Kannapolis, a historic mill town that has undergone an exciting revitalization. Kannapolis is known for the North Carolina Research Campus (a hub for nutrition and biotech research) and the brand new Atrium Health Ballpark, home to the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers minor league baseball team. Its downtown has been redeveloped with new restaurants, a brewery, and a performing arts center, while still honoring its textile history (check out the Dale Earnhardt tribute, as Kannapolis was his hometown). Many people who work in Concord live in Kannapolis or vice versa, as the two cities’ suburbs blend together. If you live in northern Concord, Kannapolis attractions are just minutes away. Together, Concord and Kannapolis form the core of Cabarrus County’s urban area, and both are growing fast.
Harrisburg – To the south of Concord is the town of Harrisburg, a smaller suburban community that has become quite popular for families in recent years. Harrisburg is in Cabarrus County as well, and it offers newer subdivisions, highly rated schools, and a close-knit feel. It’s only about a 10-15 minute drive from Concord’s center to Harrisburg. Many people choose Harrisburg for its slightly more rural/suburban atmosphere while still being very convenient to Concord (and Charlotte via I-485). If you’re open to areas just outside Concord, Harrisburg might be worth a look – it’s part of the same general community and shares a lot of resources with Concord.
Others in the Region – Concord’s location along I-85 means you can easily reach other notable spots in the region. Huntersville and Lake Norman are to the west (about 30 minutes) if you’re looking for lake recreation. Salisbury and Greensboro lie to the northeast along the interstate. And of course, all the other Charlotte suburban towns (like University City, Mint Hill, Mathews, etc.) are within a short drive. Living in Concord, you’re truly in the center of a dynamic region – you can enjoy a small-town lifestyle day-to-day, but you’re never far from the excitement of bigger cities or the tranquility of the countryside.

Melissa Zimmerman knows the greater Charlotte and Cabarrus County area inside and out. If you’re curious about how Concord compares to these nearby locales, or you’re weighing different towns, she can provide insights to help you decide what fits your needs best.

Concord by the Numbers: Census and Demographics

For those who love to see the data, let’s break down Concord’s profile by the numbers. Understanding the demographics can give you a sense of the community and help ensure it aligns with what you’re looking for.

Population: Approximately 105,000 residents (2020 Census), with growth to around 113,600 by 2025. Concord is the second-largest city in the Charlotte metro area. An annual growth rate of ~1.5% means new neighbors and developments are always coming – a sign of a healthy, expanding city.
Diversity: Concord is a diverse community. The population is roughly 55% White, 22% Black or African American, 7% Asian, 8% identifying as two or more races or other races, and about 12% Hispanic/Latino (of any race). This cultural diversity is reflected in local festivals, restaurants, and neighborhoods. Newcomers are welcomed into a melting pot of backgrounds and traditions, enriching the city’s social fabric.
Median Age: The median age in Concord is about 36 years, which is slightly younger than the U.S. average. This points to a vibrant mix of young professionals and families as well as a good number of retirees. In Concord, you’ll see kids playing in the yards, young adults out at the breweries or coffee shops, and active seniors enjoying community events – truly a multigenerational town.
Households: There are roughly 42,000 households in Concord, with an average household size of 2.5. Families (both with kids and empty-nesters) make up a significant portion of these households, and about 66% of homes are owner-occupied (homeownership is a bit above the national average here). This indicates pride of ownership in the community – neighbors tend to invest in their homes and neighborhoods.
Income and Employment: Concord is relatively affluent. The median household income is about $82,000 per yearcensusreporter.org (considerably above the NC state median), and the average household income is $112,700【9†L39-L43**, thanks to some high earners in the area. The poverty rate is only around 8-11%, which is lower than state and national averages, reflecting a generally stable economic base. Unemployment in Cabarrus County has been low – around 3.2% in 2023【30†L92-L100】, which is a testament to the strong job market.

These numbers paint a picture of Concord as a prosperous, growing, and family-friendly city. When you buy a home here, you’re joining a community that is thriving. It’s always wise to invest in an area with positive demographics and growth – and Concord certainly fits that bill.

Economy & Job Market

A city’s livability often comes down to the strength of its economy and job opportunities. Concord shines in this regard, with a diverse economy and plentiful employment options both in town and within commuting range. Here’s what to know about Concord’s economy and job market:

Diverse Industries: Concord is no longer just the textile town of yesteryear – today its economy spans manufacturing, healthcare, retail, education, and technology. This diversity provides stability; the city isn’t reliant on a single industry. For example, manufacturing remains strong with employers like Gibson USA (a guitar manufacturing facility employing hundreds) and Coca-Cola Bottling Co. running a large plant in town. Concord even had a cutting-edge battery manufacturing startup (Alevo) set up shop. On the other side, healthcare is a major pillar: Atrium Health Cabarrus, a 457-bed regional hospital, is one of Concord’s top employers with over 1,500 staff, providing excellent healthcare services to residents and solid employment. Retail and tourism contribute significantly as well – the presence of Concord Mills Mall and the Motor Speedway means thousands of jobs in retail, hospitality, and entertainment. Concord also has eight business parks fostering growth in sectors like logistics and technology. In short, whether you’re in manufacturing, healthcare, service industry, or even a small business owner, Concord’s economy offers opportunities.

Major Employers: Some of the biggest employers in and around Concord include: Atrium Health Cabarrus (hospital), Cabarrus County Schools (all those schools require teachers and staff), the City of Concord municipal government, Amazon (which opened fulfillment and distribution centers in the region), Gibson Manufacturing (as mentioned, making world-famous guitars in Concord), Duke Energy (which has operations nearby), and ACN (a global direct sales company headquartered in Concord). Additionally, many residents work in Charlotte’s finance and tech sectors, commuting from Concord. This means as a Concord homeowner, you might find employment locally or enjoy a reasonable commute down I-85 or the commuter rail (future expansion plans) into Charlotte.

Job Market: The job market in Concord has been robust and growing. Unemployment is very low (hovering around 3-4% in recent years, better than national averages), and job growth has been positive year-over-year. The city and county often rank as one of the faster-growing job markets in NC. A lot of this growth is due to Concord’s location – employers find it attractive due to the skilled workforce, lower costs than Charlotte, and connectivity (Concord even has its own regional airport for corporate travel). For you as a homebuyer, this healthy economy means greater job security and career options, as well as a strong foundation for property values. A thriving local economy generally supports rising home values over time.

Economic Development: The local government is very proactive in economic development. Concord has multiple industrial parks and recently attracted companies in fields like aerospace and food processing. The adjacent Charlotte Motor Speedway also spurred a cluster of motorsports and automotive businesses (NASCAR teams like Hendrick Motorsports have facilities nearby). In downtown Concord, investment in revitalization has brought new restaurants, lofts, and offices – creating jobs and enhancing quality of life. Concord is also part of the greater Charlotte Chamber and regional development initiatives, meaning it benefits from the overall booming Charlotte metro economy.

With such a solid economic outlook, it’s easy to see why buying a home in Concord is a smart move for your future. You’re not only getting a lovely place to live, but also planting roots in an area with opportunity and growth.

Melissa can share more insights on local employers and even connect you with community resources if you’re relocating to Concord for a job. Having a realtor who knows the area is invaluable when moving for work!

Diverse & Popular Neighborhoods (By ZIP Code)

Concord’s neighborhoods are wonderfully diverse – each with its own character, price range, and vibe. Whether you prefer the charm of a historic district, the amenities of a planned subdivision, or the quiet of a rural setting, you can find it here. To give you a flavor of what’s available, let’s explore some of Concord’s most popular neighborhoods and areas (with their ZIP codes):

Historic Downtown Concord (28025): For those who love history and walkability, downtown Concord is the place to be. This area features beautiful historic homes, some dating back to the 1800s, along the streets near Union Street and Edgewood Ave. You’ll find Victorians with wraparound porches, quaint bungalows, and even renovated mill homes in adjacent Gibson Village. Residents can walk to coffee shops, bakeries, the library, and summer concerts at the courthouse square. The community here is tight-knit and proud of their historic surroundings. Homes in downtown (and the 28025 ZIP code generally) tend to be more affordable than newer suburbs – great for first-time buyers who want character and convenience.
Afton Village (28027): Afton Village is a new urbanist-style community in western Concord that has become extremely popular. It’s a mixed-use neighborhood with townhomes, single-family homes, and condos, all built around a charming town center with shops and restaurants. Imagine being able to walk to dinner or a yoga class in your own neighborhood! Afton Village offers that lifestyle. The architecture is reminiscent of a traditional small town (hence “new old neighborhood”) with front porches and tidy streets. It also borders a large park and the Rocky River Greenway for outdoor recreation. Buyers here include young professionals and retirees alike who appreciate the low-maintenance living and community feel.
Moss Creek (28027): Located in the northwest part of Concord (near the county line with Mecklenburg), Moss Creek is a large, family-friendly planned subdivision. It’s known for its great amenities: a clubhouse, pools, tennis courts, and walking trails that residents can enjoy. The homes in Moss Creek are mostly modern builds from the 2000s, ranging from starter-size to quite spacious, and the neighborhood is zoned for some of the best schools in Cabarrus County (which boosts its popularity with families). Streets are lined with sidewalks and playgrounds abound – on any given evening you’ll see kids riding bikes and neighbors chatting. If you’re looking for a classic suburban community vibe, Moss Creek is a top choice.
Skybrook (28027): Part of the Skybrook golf community stretches into Concord, offering an upscale neighborhood with resort-like amenities. Centered around the Skybrook Golf Club (an 18-hole championship golf course), this community features elegant homes – many brick or stone – with golf course views or wooded lots. Amenities include pools, fitness, and of course the golf club. It’s a preferred address for those seeking luxury living within Concord. Skybrook’s Concord section benefits from Cabarrus County taxes/schools while enjoying a location very close to Huntersville and Charlotte. Professionals and executives often choose Skybrook for its combination of serene living and accessibility.
Laurel Park (28027): Laurel Park is an established subdivision in west Concord that locals often mention for its pretty, tree-lined streets and quality homes. Developed in the 1990s-2000s, it has a variety of home styles (mostly brick traditional homes) and a reputation for being well-maintained. There’s a community pool and clubhouse, and it’s situated near great schools. Laurel Park attracts many families and professionals who want a peaceful neighborhood feel without being too far from city amenities.
Cannon Crossing (28027): If you’re a first-time buyer or looking for a moderately priced home in a nice area, Cannon Crossing is worth a look. This community (named after Cannon Mills heritage) offers affordable newer homes – including single-story ranch designs and two-story houses ideal for young families. It’s located conveniently near I-85 and the Afton Ridge shopping center (Target, restaurants, etc.). You get the benefit of newer construction (modern layouts and efficiencies) at a price point that’s often lower than other nearby subdivisions, making it a great entry into the Concord market.

These are just a sampling – Concord has many other neighborhoods and outlying communities, each with their own appeal. For example, the Hartwood area and Beverly Hills neighborhood in 28025 offer mid-century homes in established areas; Highland Creek (a large community that spills into Concord’s borders) provides another golf-course suburban option; and rural areas toward Mount Pleasant give you opportunities for land and custom homes while still having a Concord address.

By ZIP code, Concord is mainly divided into two primary areas: the 28025 ZIP (covering the older, central, and eastern parts of the city, including downtown and many historic or modest neighborhoods) and 28027 ZIP (covering the western and northern parts, including most newer developments and higher-end neighborhoods). As we’ll detail in the next section, home values do vary between these ZIPs, but together they make up the rich tapestry of Concord. Whatever your lifestyle or budget, there’s likely a Concord neighborhood that feels like home. (Melissa Zimmerman has helped clients find homes in all these neighborhoods – she can be your guide to identifying which part of Concord best matches your dream home vision.)

Entertainment, Sports & Outdoor Living

Life in Concord isn’t just about houses and jobs – it’s also about enjoying your free time! One thing residents love is the abundance of entertainment, sports, and outdoor activities available in and around the city. Here are some ways Concord delivers fun and recreation:

Sports and Spectator Events: We’ve already talked about NASCAR at Charlotte Motor Speedway – which is huge for sports fans – but Concord residents also have access to many other sporting events. Nearby Kannapolis hosts minor league baseball games (an affordable, family-fun night out at the Cannon Ballers stadium). In Charlotte, just a short drive away, you can cheer on the Carolina Panthers (NFL), Charlotte Hornets (NBA), Charlotte FC (Major League Soccer), and check out the AAA baseball Charlotte Knights. College sports are big too, with UNC Charlotte and Davidson College in the region. If you love being a spectator, you’ll never run out of games, races, and matches to attend. And for active sports participants, Concord has leagues for soccer, softball, basketball, and more for both kids and adults through Parks & Rec – a great way to get involved in the community and stay active.

Outdoor Parks and Recreation: Concord’s climate (mild winters, warm summers) means you can enjoy the outdoors nearly year-round. The city and county maintain numerous parks and greenways. A standout is Frank Liske Park, a 238-acre park that’s a local favorite. Frank Liske Park features fishing ponds, paddle boating, picnic shelters, playgrounds, soccer fields, and even a miniature golf course – an awesome spot for family outings or a morning jog. Dorton Park and Les Myers Park are other popular spots with walking trails and sports courts. If you’re into golf, aside from Skybrook there’s Rocky River Golf Club (a public course adjacent to the Speedway) and several other courses within a short drive. For hikers and nature lovers, the foothills of the Uwharrie National Forest lie about an hour to the east, and the Appalachian Mountains are a couple of hours north – perfect for weekend getaways. Closer to home, residents enjoy biking on the McEachern Greenway or taking kids to the splash pad at Village Park in Kannapolis. And let’s not forget Lake Norman is 30-40 minutes away, offering boating, fishing, and lakeside dining. In Concord, you truly have a bit of everything outdoors, from local parks to regional natural attractions.

Arts, Culture & Nightlife: Concord may not be a major city, but it has a growing arts and culture scene. The Cabarrus Arts Council in downtown Concord puts on gallery exhibits and performances (the Davis Theatre in the old courthouse hosts concerts and plays). There are a number of local breweries and wine bars (check out Red Hill Brewery or Cougar Run Winery) that have live music nights and are popular gathering spots for young professionals. The Old Courthouse Theatre offers community theater productions. Throughout the year, Concord and surrounding areas have festivals like the Concord International Festival (celebrating global cultures), Spring Into Arts festival, and seasonal farmers’ markets that create a lively social scene. For movies, aside from the AMC at Concord Mills, the historic Gem Theatre in nearby Kannapolis is a cool vintage cinema experience. And when you want a big night out, Charlotte’s concerts, clubs, and restaurants are an easy Uber ride away.

Family Entertainment: If you have kids (or are a kid at heart), Concord’s entertainment options are endless. Great Wolf Lodge’s indoor water park is open year-round for splashing fun. iFLY Indoor Skydiving in Concord allows you to experience the thrill of skydiving in a wind tunnel – a hit for birthday parties and adventurous spirits. The Sea Life Aquarium at Concord Mills is a wonderful place to take young children to learn about ocean creatures. There’s also an Escape Room, an indoor trampoline park, and even outdoor adventure spots like the nearby Go Ape Treetop Adventure course (in Kannapolis). For adults, Concord Mills and Afton Village have some nightlife, and of course Concord’s proximity to Charlotte means easy access to fine dining, theater, and upscale nightlife when you crave it.

Simply put, you’ll never be bored living in Concord. The combination of sports, outdoors, and entertainment is one of the city’s strongest selling points. Many people choose Concord because they want an active, engaging lifestyle without the headaches of a huge city. Here you can spend one day hiking or kayaking, the next day enjoying a festival downtown, and the next cheering on a race or ballgame. It’s all at your doorstep.

Zip Codes for Homebuyers

As mentioned earlier, Concord’s properties are generally divided among two main ZIP codes. It’s useful to understand these as a homebuyer because each ZIP code has its own general character and pricing. Here’s a quick guide:

ZIP Code 28025: This ZIP covers eastern and central Concord, including the historic downtown and adjacent neighborhoods stretching eastward. Homebuyers looking in 28025 will find a mix of older homes (some beautifully restored, some more modest), established neighborhoods with mature trees, and pockets of new construction on infill sites. The median home value in 28025 is around $336,000, a bit lower than the city’s overall median – making it attractive for budget-conscious buyers. In 28025 you can get a charming 1940s bungalow or a brick ranch in a quiet subdivision at a more affordable price point. Many first-time buyers start here, as do retirees looking to downsize, since you can find one-level homes and be close to amenities. Notable areas in 28025 include Downtown, Gibson Village, Beverly Hills neighborhood, and areas along Branchview Drive. This ZIP also tends to feed into Concord High School and other central schools. If you want the best bang for your buck and maybe a bit of historic character, 28025 is a great zone to explore.
ZIP Code 28027: This ZIP code covers western and northern parts of Concord, generally west of Downtown toward the Charlotte border and north toward Kannapolis. It includes most of Concord’s newer developments, shopping centers (like Concord Mills and Afton Ridge), and the Concord Regional Airport area. The median home value in 28027 is higher, around $404,000, reflecting the many newer upscale communities here. Homebuyers in 28027 will find lots of recently built single-family homes in subdivisions (like Moss Creek, Highland Creek, Winding Walk), townhome communities, and some luxury neighborhoods (e.g., Christenbury Hall or Skybrook). Families are drawn to 28027 for the newer schools (like Cox Mill High) and modern amenities. Commuters to Charlotte also like that the southwest side of Concord (28027) offers quick access to I-85 and I-485. If you’re looking for a new construction home with modern floor plans or a higher-end property, you’ll likely be house-hunting in 28027. This area has seen a lot of growth and continues to be a hot spot for development.

In summary, 28025 = older/central/affordable, 28027 = newer/west/upscale (with plenty of exceptions and overlap, of course). Both ZIP codes have lovely communities and are integral parts of Concord – it really comes down to what style of home and environment you prefer. Many homebuyers will look in both areas to compare. (Melissa Zimmerman can set up searches for you in either or both ZIPs and help you compare the pros and cons. Having a knowledgeable realtor means you won’t miss hidden gems in either area!)

Median Home Prices, Market Trends, and Affordability Comparisons

Let’s talk numbers in the real estate market itself – how expensive are homes in Concord, and what are the current trends? The good news is that Concord offers great value in today’s market. Here’s an overview:

Median Home Price in Concord: As of early 2025, the median sold price of a home in Concord is around $370,000-$380,000. This means half the homes sell for less than that, and half for more. Meanwhile, the median listing price (what sellers are asking) is a bit higher, roughly $409,000 in January 2025, reflecting a mix of larger new homes on the market. This range shows that you can still find homes in the $300Ks (and even below for townhomes or older small homes), but Concord also has plenty of higher-end options in the $400K–$600K+ range for those who want more space or luxury. By comparison, the median sale price in nearby Charlotte is about $405,000, so Concord tends to be slightly more affordable than Charlotte for similar properties – one of the reasons many buyers choose Concord and happily commute.
Market Trends: Concord’s housing market saw rapid appreciation in the early 2020s, with home values climbing sharply (like much of the country). In the past year, the market has started to stabilize. Some reports showed a slight dip in median sale prices year-over-year (e.g., down ~9% in one recent month), but more recent data shows prices ticking up again by a few percent. Essentially, after a red-hot market, Concord is leveling off into a more balanced market. Homes now average around 2+ months on market, whereas last year they sold faster – so buyers have a bit more breathing room and negotiation power than during the frenzy. Inventory is increasing with nearly 600 homes for sale at a given time, which helps moderate the market. Overall, experts expect Concord’s home prices to continue a gradual upward trend but at a more sustainable pace. For buyers, this is encouraging – you’re not likely to be priced out by double-digit gains in a few months, but your investment should still grow over time.
Affordability: When assessing affordability, it’s useful to compare home prices to local incomes and other markets. With a median family income around $82K, and median home around $370K, Concord’s price-to-income ratio is roughly 4.5x – better than many U.S. cities (for instance, some markets are 6-8x). Also, property taxes in Concord/Cabarrus County are relatively reasonable (lower than in Charlotte’s Mecklenburg County), which helps with ongoing affordability. If you look at national figures: the average U.S. home value is about $355K, so Concord is just slightly above the national average, yet you get the benefit of being in a growing metropolitan area. Compared to other popular relocation spots (say Raleigh, NC or parts of the Northeast), Concord can seem like a bargain. Within the Charlotte region, places like Huntersville or Fort Mill often have higher price points than Concord for similar homes. In short, Concord hits a sweet spot of not being the cheapest market in NC, but offering tremendous value given its location and amenities. First-time buyers find they can enter the market here, and move-up buyers can get a lot of houses for their money.
Comparisons by ZIP/Area: As noted, 28025 vs 28027 see a spread in prices (mid-$300Ks vs low-$400Ks on average). Also, single-family homes have a higher median (~$400K) whereas townhomes/condos are lower. Concord’s luxury market (the top 10% of homes) might run $600K and up, which is still more affordable than Charlotte’s luxury segment. If you need more affordability, looking just outside Concord in smaller towns or in older communities might yield options under $300K – but many choose Concord for the convenience and are happy to find a townhouse or older fixer-upper to stay within budget. On the flip side, if you have a healthy budget, Concord’s high-end neighborhoods (like those around the golf courses) will not disappoint.

In summary, Concord’s real estate market is healthy and reasonably priced. It’s an appreciating market but not out-of-control – a great combination for homebuyers who want to build equity without stretching beyond their means. Whether you’re comparing it to Charlotte, to other states, or to national trends, Concord stands out as affordable yet full of upside.

Melissa Zimmerman can provide a personalized market analysis and affordability breakdown for your situation – including recent sales comps, trend data, and how Concord stacks up to any other markets you may be considering. Being informed is key, and she’s here to help!

Ready to make Concord, NC your home?

Don’t miss out on the opportunities in this wonderful city. Whether you’re drawn by the affordable prices, the rich history, the family-friendly amenities, or the investment potential, the next step is to take action. Melissa Zimmerman, Realtor® is your dedicated local expert who can turn your real estate dreams into reality.

Contact Melissa today to schedule a personalized consultation – no pressure, just a friendly chat about your goals and how to achieve them. Melissa will help you find the perfect home in Concord that fits your needs and budget. She’s helped countless first-time buyers, families, retirees, and investors, and she’s ready to help you too.

Your dream home in Concord is waiting – and with Melissa Zimmerman by your side, you’ll be moving in before you know it. Get in touch now to start your journey to homeownership in Concord, North Carolina!