Charlotte is the largest city in North Carolina and one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. It is a major financial center, home to several Fortune 500 companies, and blends Southern charm with urban sophistication.
Overview
- Population: ~900,000 (over 2.6 million in the metro area)
- Nicknames: The Queen City, CLT
- Founded: 1768, named in honor of Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz
- Geography: Located in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, near the South Carolina border
Landmarks and Attractions
- NASCAR Hall of Fame
- U.S. National Whitewater Center
- Discovery Place Science Museum
- Bank of America Stadium – home of the Carolina Panthers
- Spectrum Center – home of the Charlotte Hornets
- Historic Fourth Ward and Uptown district
Economy
Charlotte is a major financial hub:
- Second-largest banking center in the U.S. (after New York City)
- Home to Bank of America and Truist Financial
- Diverse economy including energy, healthcare, and tech sectors
Culture and Lifestyle
- Mix of Southern traditions and urban innovation
- Rapidly growing arts, music, and culinary scenes
- Major sports city with NFL, NBA, MLS, and NASCAR events
- Hosts major festivals and concerts year-round
Education and Innovation
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte)
- Multiple research hospitals and tech incubators
- Expanding in fintech and clean energy innovation
Transportation
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) – major hub
- LYNX light rail and CATS bus system
- Interstate crossroads: I-77, I-85, and I-485
- Compact and walkable Uptown area
Fun Facts
- Named “The Queen City” after British royalty
- Charlotte was the site of the first U.S. gold rush (in the early 1800s)
- Known for having a skyline that's rapidly evolving with new skyscrapers