The city of Monroe is located in the Charlotte-Gastonia area of North Carolina, and with a population of just about 30,000, Monroe is the county seat of Union County. Named after James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States, it was settled in 1751, and incorporated in 1844. Current industries include metal fabrication, textiles and apparels manufacturing, plastic and stone products, and a thriving pharmaceutical, aviation and electronic equipment segment.

Three main historic districts are located in Monroe. The historic Victorian Courthouse was built in 1886 and sits regally atop a central square, drawing attention from every conceivable direction. The county and city government buildings are located to the north, with picturesque downtown shops, restaurants and businesses located to the south. The tree-lined streets and restored historic homes lead away from the heart of Monroe, and there is also the Waxhaw Weddington Roads Historic District.

The completion of the Carolina Central Railway in December 1874 brought significant changes in the town's commercial standing. Monroe soon became a market town where the railroad brought manufactured goods that could be exchanged for regional agricultural products. Monroe became home to a large transient population knows as Railway Men because of its status as a hub in the railroad line. Traveling salesmen, known as Knights of the Grip, were also drawn to the city for its large wholesale commerce. Many travelers stopping during their journeys enjoyed the Monroe hospitality, which still lives on today.

The City of Monroe remains a hub of industrial and retail activity within the region and continues to hold the focus of culture and commerce within Union County, making Monroe real estate well sought after. The thriving Highway 74 Corridor is where you will find most major restaurants, hotel chains, shopping malls, car dealers, and anything else imaginable. This bustling business segment is the fastest growing area in the state, as more and more businesses are making this area their hub. Another economic wellspring for Monroe is an industrial and distribution center located near the Monroe Regional Airport. Monroe is home to multi-national corporations, as well as local and regional companies. Located adjacent to Charlotte certainly helps, as Charlotte is the second largest financial center in the United States, creating lucrative growth opportunities in many sectors for Monroe real estate, both commercial and residential.

With recent economic growth and more new residents moving to the area, Monroe has begun to pave the way for a very promising future. Because of this increased growth, the area has seen a wave of new homes, schools and businesses. New community facilities such as the Aquatic Center are creating a great place for its residents to work, live and play. Millions of dollars in renovations and façade improvements, annual festivals and new interest in professional housing have made areas such as Downtown Monroe the place to be for travelers, residents and business owners alike.

The population of Monroe is very diverse, with a median resident age of 31 and a median household income of about $40,000. As of the last U.S. survey, the median house price was about $110,000, with home appreciation rates up 4.42% from last year. Approximately 16% of Monroe residents age 25 and older hold a bachelor's or advanced degree. According to Census Bureau estimates, the number of people living in Union County has grown from 123,677 to 145,986, with a sizable portion residing in Monroe. There are a number of good schools to choose from, including public, private and parochial. The booming economy and rapid growth continue to make North Carolina real estate a lucrative investment.

Homeowners will find that Monroe has a relaxed pace, yet it is close enough to the large metropolitan city of Charlotte. A short drive away you will find the I-485 outer-belt, uptown Charlotte and I-77. Areas around and inside the City of Monroe incorporate an excellent balance of established, executive housing and new, more compact neighborhoods that promote a strong feeling of community. The homes are constructed in a wide variety of styles such as single-family homes, town homes and condominiums.

For more information about Monroe real estate and homes for sale in Union County, contact the expert Realtors of the Re/Max Premier Team at (704) 714-6670 today.

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