If you’ve been keeping up with our newsletter, it’s no surprise 2024 was a packed year for the Queen City — with lots more heading our way for 2025. LOVE this graf

But before the ACC Championship or Lovin' Life Music Fest kick off, we’re taking a look back at what some national outlets said about the city we call home.

Southern Living
“The South’s Best Cities 2024” | Ranked No. 12
There's never been a better time to visit North Carolina's largest city. It's a glowing destination for the arts + you'll have your pick of the litter when it comes to dining options, from authentic Carolina barbecue to upscale global-inspired eats.is there a reason the descriptions are italicized? I don't think it's necessary

U.S. News & World Report
"Best Places to Live in the US" | Ranked No. 5
Although its economy and rapid development make Charlotte a thoroughly 21st century metro area, Southern charm is still very much alive, and making friends with neighbors isn’t the daunting task it can be in other large cities.

Clever Real Estate
Best Place to Live in 2024 | Ranked No. 2
Charlotte's popularity is on the rise due to its low cost of living and growing number of attractions. Not only does the Queen City have a cost of living about 2% lower than the national average, it has plenty of things to do — from football games and breweries to ghost tours and nearby beaches.

Money
“Best Places to Live of 2024” | Rock Hill, SC
Over the last few years, Rock Hill has welcomed a swarm of newcomers seeking affordable real estate from nearby Charlotte, North Carolina — many of whom still commute every day to Fortune 500 companies like Nucor and Bank of America that are headquartered in the bigger city.

Pro tip: Check out our City Guides to find out what the buzz is about + see how we do in 2025 by subscribing (for free) to our daily newsletter.