Lake Norman of Catawba, or Lake Norman, is a small census-designated place just outside Charlotte, North Carolina. Lake Norman is in Catawba County, and is part of the Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton Metropolitan area. Lake Norman of Catawba is one of many close-knit, waterfront communities that line the shores of Lake Norman, the largest manmade freshwater lake in North Carolina. Lake Norman is a popular place to live among young families and retirees alike. Those living in Lake Norman have a laid back culture and enjoy boating and living right along the lake.
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Lake Norman, NC Population & Demographics
The population of Lake Norman is 7,918 with a demographic breakdown of 96.9% white, 1.1% Hispanic, 1.4% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.5% Mixed or Other races.
Households in Lake Norman include 68.9% married couples, and 23.4% of homes have children under the age of 18. 50.63% of Lake Norman residents are female, and 49.37% are male. Lake Norman is an extremely safe place to live. Total crime rates in Lake Norman are 62% lower than the national average.
Lake Norman is located in Catawba County, North Carolina. Lake Norman’s zip codes are 28037, 28609, 28673 and 28682. The area codes in Lake Norman are 828, 704, and 980.
Lake Norman Cost of Living
Lake Norman’s cost of living is 14% higher than the national average. However, not everything is more expensive in Lake Norman! Thankfully, some things are even cheaper while living in Lake Norman. Here’s a look at how other Lake Norman prices stack up against the national average:
- Groceries are 1% less expensive
- Healthcare costs are 6% higher
- Housing prices are 54% more expensive
- Transportation is 8% less expensive
- Utility costs are 4% less
Good news for people moving to Lake Norman – the real estate market in Lake Norman is only somewhat competitive, and prices have remained flat over the last few years. Median sale price for a home in Lake Norman is $410,000, which works out to about $202 per square foot. Homes in Lake Norman go to pending in about 42 days, and some sell for slightly about asking with multiple offers. Those moving to Lake Norman may not have to deal with the very competitive real estate that many other areas are currently experiencing. Now is a great time to buy one of the many homes for sale in Lake Norman, NC.
Renting is definitely an option in Lake Norman! 16.9% of homes in Lake Norman are rented, and the average cost of Lake Norman rent is $717. That’s 24.4% less than the national average!
Lake Norman, NC Neighborhoods
There are many neighborhoods and housing developments within Lake Norman. The most popular neighborhoods in Lake Norman are Lakepointe North, Sherrills Ford, and Terrell. Lakepointe North is an extremely high priced area, with a median listing price of $3.3M. Sherrills Ford, near the highly rated Sherrills Ford Elementary School, is much more affordable if you are okay without living on the water. Terrell is another very expensive area, with larger waterfront homes on bigger properties that sell for over $1M.
Lake Norman, NC Weather
If you are someone who loves being warm in the summer and cold in the winter, Lake Norman is perfect for you! You’ll enjoy four distinct seasons living in Lake Norman. The coldest month in Lake Norman is January, when temperatures range from a 31.3°F average low to a 46.9°F average high. Lake Normal does receive some snowfall, but only about 5.8” annually. As far as rainfall, you can expect about 32” a year if you live in Lake Norman. July is the hottest month in Lake Norman, when highs average 90.1°F. The most pleasant months in Lake Norman are mid-May through mid-June, and mid-August until October.
Things to Do in Lake Norman
Whether you’d like to spend a day exploring nature, or sip on some amazing wine, you’ll be right at home in Lake Norman! And with Charlotte in your backyard, the options are endless! Here are some of Lake Norman residents’ favorite attractions:
Lake Norman State Park
Lake Norman State Park is on the northern shore of Lake Norman, and no matter what your interests, you’ll find it here! There’s free boat docking, rowboat and canoe rentals, swimming and fishing for those who are looking to relax in and around the water. It’s also popular for camping, picnicking, hiking, and wildlife observing.
759 State Park Rd, Troutman, NC 28166, (704) 528-6350
Davesté Vineyards
Unwind after a day on the water at Daveste Vineyards! The first winery in Iredell County, this family owned spot is a great place to relax. They offer tours, tastings, event hosting, live music and an art gallery to enjoy. Check out their calendar for more!
155 Lytton Farm Rd, Troutman, NC 28166, (704) 528-3882
Additional Things to do in and around Lake Norman
Lake Norman Restaurants
If you’re a foodie, you’ll be right at home in Lake Norman! The lake is lined with amazing waterfront restaurants – you’ll have a hard time choosing among all the great options! We found a few of Lake Norman restaurant favorites for you to try:
Landing Restaurant
Landing Restaurant is one of the most popular casual dining spots in Lake Norman. This family owned tiki bar and restaurant on the water will be a hit for any occasion. Kids can play arcade games, and leashed dogs are welcome in the outside area. Dock slips are available so you can bring your boat right up to the restaurant!
4491 Slanting Bridge Rd, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673, (828) 478-5944
Apps & Taps
For great barbecue and live music, head to Apps & Taps! Using the freshest ingredients, Apps & Taps has a great menu, large drink selection, and live entertainment every weekend on their Pontoon Stage.
155 Pinnacle Ln, Mooresville, NC 28117, (704) 677-7648
Jobs in Lake Norman, NC
Median household income in Lake Norman is $78,415. Salaries have greatly increased in Lake Norman – just 8 years ago, Lake Norman residents were earning around $65,000 annually. Lake Norman residents most commonly hold sales, management, and business and financial operations occupations. The biggest industries employing Lake Norman residents are manufacturing, retail, and healthcare and social assistance. The poverty rate is low in Lake Norman, affecting about 4.95% of residents. Of those residents, the group most affected by poverty in Lake Norman is women over the age of 75.
Lake Norman residents have longer commutes than many other areas of the country. The average commute time in Lake Norman is 30.9 minutes, more than 5 minutes longer than the national average time of 25.3 minutes. Almost 81% of Lake Norman commuters make the drive alone, and most households in Lake Norman have two cars. Teleworking is popular in Lake Norman! Almost 10% of residents work from home.
Starting your job search in Lake Norman? Click here to look through current listings in the Lake Norman area on Indeed.com.
Schools in Lake Norman, NC
The Lake Norman area is served by the Catawba County School district. Sherrills Ford Elementary school is the best rated Lake Norman school, with Lake Norman Elementary School and Lake Normal High close behind it. Students in Lake Norman score 23% higher on tests than the national average, and the high school graduation rate is 5% higher.
Living in Lake Norman Pros & Cons
- Pro: Good school system
- Pro:Waterfront living
- Con: Cost of living may be higher
Getting ready to move to Lake Norman of Catawba, NC? Make sure you’re working with the best Lake Norman movers! Call Make A Move to discuss your Lake Norman move!