Located north of Charlotte and Huntersville, Cornelius is a beautiful, affluent community with plenty to love for all sorts of folks. Cornelius’ history stretches well back to the founding of the United States, with several local historical landmarks such as Potts Plantation dating back to or shortly after that time. Nowadays, Cornelius is known primarily as a lakeside paradise. Situated right on the coast of Lake Norman, many boaters and swimmers choose to make their homes here, as well as folks who want a nice view of the water. Additionally, Cornelius’ excellent school and library systems attract parents who are focused on their children’s education. Cornelius has been home to many notable people, including NASCAR driver Ricky Rudd and politician Thom Tillis.
Table of Contents
Cornelius, NC Population & Demographics
Cornelius has a population of 29,256 distributed over 12.9 miles at a population density of about 2,200 people per square mile. The median age here is 41.3, which is about ten percent higher than the North Carolina average of 38.7. The median household income in Cornelius is $90,542, which is more than 1.5 times the average household income for the state of North Carolina, being $54,602.
The demographics of Cornelius’s population are primarily Caucasian, with Whites making up 79% of Cornelius’s population. The second largest community is Blacks, who make up 9% of Cornelius’s population. There is also a similarly sized Hispanic population. Cornelius’s gender ratio is skewed towards women, at 52%.
Cornelius’s zip code is 28031, while the area code is 704. A commute from Cornelius to Huntersville won’t take any time at all, considering the two border each other, but even the more lengthy commute from Cornelius to Charlotte will only take you 23 minutes, covering 20 miles. Cornelius’ time zone is Eastern Daylight Time, and sits at an elevation of 804.
Thinking about moving to this community, but wondering if Cornelius is a safe place to live? With an A rating on Areavibes, you won’t have to worry about becoming the victim of a crime while living in Cornelius. The total crime rate is 53% lower than the national average. Meanwhile, violent crime is 58% lower while property crime is 52% lower. Cornelius’ police department is the Cornelius Police Department.
Cost of Living in Cornelius, NC
Despite being among the most affluent communities in its locality, Cornelius is still very affordable when compared to most places in the United States, as shown with the cost of living here only being 1% higher than most places in the United States, according to Payscale. Homes in Cornelius will cost you around $322,400, which is almost double the average North Carolina home price of $172,500. If you choose to move to Cornelius, you’ll find that you’ll be paying less for things like transportation, utilities, and groceries. In terms of renting in Cornelius, prices tend to be higher thanks to Cornelius’ variety of desirable features, with an average cost of $1,493 per month for all units.
Cornelius combines an affluent community with North Carolina’s general affordability, making it the best of both worlds. While housing is certainly more expensive than most of the state, you’ll get lots of value to the dollar here!
Best Neighborhoods in Cornelius, NC
With a cultured and classy community like Cornelius, it’s only natural that there’ll be many different distinct sub-communities, ripe for settling into. Cornelius may not be as big as Charlotte, but has an amazing diversity of neighborhoods to explore! Check out some of your neighborhood options below:
In terms of affluent neighborhoods, 100 Norman Place probably represents some of the most expensive property in the community, with perfect views of Lake Norman and big houses. If you’re looking for something a bit easier on the wallet, and less heavy on maintenance, the Harborside Townhomes may just be the area for you. Alternatively, if you’re getting on in years and want a retiree-friendly community, Bailey’s Glen may be more your style.
If you want to make yourself a part of any of these communities, you should check out the latest listings for homes for sale in Cornelius, NC.
If you want to know where things are, check out this map of Cornelius.
Cornelius, NC Climate & Weather
Cornelius’s climate is fairly typical of the South. Expect heat, humidity, lots of rain, but little in the way of snow. You can expect lows of 28 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter months, and highs of 89 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months. Cornelius experiences more than the average amount of rainfall when compared with the rest of the United States, with 43 inches per year as compared to 38 inches. Meanwhile, Cornelius experiences far less snow than the national average, with 3 inches as compared to 28. The best times to visit Cornelius, in terms of comfort rating, are May and September.
View this post on Instagram
Things to Do in Cornelius, NC
Naturally, an affluent community like Cornelius is not lacking in great shopping and activities suitable for the whole family. Check out shopping centers nearby like the Shops at the Fresh Market for all your shopping needs! You should also check out some of the best things to do in Cornelius, NC below:
Jetton Park
This 104-acre park has everything you need for a lovely day out! Tennis courts, trails, picnic areas, and lakeside beaches — Jetton Park has it all! If you want a blast outdoors in Cornelius, Jetton Park is your place.
19000 Jetton Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031, +19803141001
Ramsey Creek Park Beach
The Ramsey Creek Park Beach is Cornelius’ premier beach, featuring a wide variety of activities. This area has opportunities for boating, fishing, volleyball, and more. This beach even has a nudist area, if that’s your style. Ramsey Creek Park Beach is an excellent destination for a day outdoors!
18441 Nantz Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031, +19803141001
Cornelius, NC Additional Attractions:
The city of Cornelius’ parks & rec department operates many parks within city limits for residents to enjoy. See all of Cornelius’ parks at the Cornelius parks & recreation site.
Places to Eat in Cornelius, NC
Alongside its host of things to do, Cornelius is also home to plenty of great eats! Check out some below:
131 MAIN
Despite the name that sounds more like a highway or a factory than a restaurant, 131 Main is among the most upper crust eateries in Cornelius. Serving refined American dishes in a smart setting, 131 Main attracts many locals time and time again thanks to their excellent dishes.
17830 Statesville Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031, +17048960131
Port City Club
With some of the best views in the city, Port City Club is an upscale eatery specializing in seafood. A variety of excellent dishes with a beautiful setting awaits you, and keeps Cornelius locals coming back for more.
18665 Harborside Dr, Cornelius, NC 28031, +17047651565
Cornelius, NC Schools & Colleges
Cornelius is served by a variety of school districts, but most notably the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District. Some highlights in terms of local schools include the J.V. Washam Elementary School, Bailey Middle School, and William Amos Hough High. You can rest easy knowing your child will have access to an excellent education during your stay in Cornelius!
Jobs in Cornelius, NC
Those planning on making a living in Cornelius should know that wages have been increasing alongside cost of living, according to Payscale. The most popular positions of employment are Office Manager, Mechanical Engineer, and Executive Assistant. Meanwhile, the largest employers in the area are AMTdirect, Lowe’s Companies, Inc, and iQmetrix. The average salary for a worker in Cornelius is $65k a year, while the average hourly wage is $16.30.
Cornelius is rife with economic opportunity, and will have the job for you if you keep your eyes open for them! Check out the latest listings for jobs in Cornelius, NC here.
Moving to Cornelius, NC Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Beautiful and safe community
- Affluent, but affordable
- Lots to do
Cons:
- Humid and hot weather
Ready to take that last step and start your journey to making Cornelius your new home? Give Make A Move a call at 704-378-8588! Our crew of highly-trained professional Cornelius movers will ensure your move is a stress-free process at affordable rates! Call now or fill out our online form for a free quote!
