Learn what affordable housing means to North Mecklenburg County
Housing costs should be below 30% of our residents' monthly pay
From teachers to care-givers and small business-owners to firefighters – we all are affected by the availability of affordable housing.
According to HUD, affordable housing is households spending 30% or less on housing costs, including rent or mortgage payments, utilities, and other fees.
Spending over 30% is considered housing cost burdened or housing insecure. This means that a person, such as a school teacher making $44,000 should be paying no more than $1,100 in housing costs (rent and utilities).
Without affordable housing we risk losing our essential workers to other cities
Commuters play a critical role in our community, holding jobs in health care, social assistance, retail trade, professional services, and more. But their long commutes are taxing – if we don’t start working towards affordable housing in our area, we risk losing these vital workers to cities with lower rent.
Over half of the people working in North Mecklenburg earn less than $40,000 per year.
Because of this, more than 80% of people working in North Mecklenburg live elsewhere and commute into the area.
Since Charlotte has significantly more rentals priced under $1,000, the city has become a hub for our North Mecklenburg workers.
Are you facing a housing challenge?
Affordable housing, financial assistance, emergency solutions, and more
For every housing situation (big or small), we’ve compiled a list of community resources to help you find a solution.
Our community benefits in more ways than one
Affordable housing touches the lives of everyone in our area
Whether you’re focused on your child’s education, building your business, or becoming involved in your community – these goals become more accessible when all our residents live closer together.
Economic Development
Improved Education
Healthier Populations
Family Stability
More Job Opportunities
Local Government Support
Can your kids afford to live where they grew up?
Sarah grew up in North Mecklenburg County. She went to Cornelius Elementary, worked her first job at Summit Coffee in Davidson, and spend her summers at Jetton Park.
She built her life here – met her husband at Birkdale Village and dreamed of raising her family near Ramsey Creek Park.
But today, Sarah can’t afford to stay in the community she loves.
Her AHHA moment? Realizing that affordable housing isn’t just about her – it’s about all of us. Keeping locals like Sarah close helps our community stay strong, connected, and thriving.
