Kannapolis NC is a good place to live if you want to live in an affordable city that beautifully blends its rich past with exciting future opportunities. Once known as “Cannon-opolis” due to its origins as a bustling mill town and home to the iconic Cannon Mills company, Kannapolis has transformed into a thriving hub that offers a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers and longtime residents alike. As such, Kannapolis is a good place to live. Whether you are seeking a close-knit community, gorgeous houses, a good education, or just a perfect place to call home, living in Kannapolis NC offers something special for everyone.
Table of Contents
Is Kannapolis NC a Good Place to Live? (A Quick Summary)
Yes. Affordable suburban living and quick access to a major metro make Kannapolis NC a great place to live. It is located primarily in Cabarrus County (with a small portion in Rowan County), and sits about 25 miles northeast of Charlotte. Hence, Kannapolis is a popular suburb of Charlotte for commuters, young families, and remote workers.
Two of the key factors that make Kannapolis NC a good place to live are that the cost of living is below the national average and that the city has a fully revitalized downtown that has transformed the former Cannon Mills textile town into a walkable hub anchored by the North Carolina Research Campus.
View this post on Instagram
Where Is Kannapolis?
Kannapolis is located primarily in Cabarrus County, but a small northern portion of the city extends into Rowan County. This is why many people are often confused about where is Kannapolis NC located. In terms of the nearby locations, Kannapolis sits about 25 miles northeast of Charlotte along I-85, so it is often considered to be a suburb of Charlotte. The city is bordered by Concord to the south and Salisbury to the north.
Kannapolis uses ZIP codes 28081 and 28083 within its city limits, with parts of the surrounding area falling under ZIP code 28027 (Concord). Its position along the I-85 corridor makes it one of the most accessible small cities in the Charlotte metro, as it offers easy reach to both major employment centers and Piedmont’s smaller historic towns.
What County Is Kannapolis NC in?
Kannapolis is located primarily in Cabarrus County, with a small northern portion of the city extending into Rowan County. Cabarrus County serves is the main administrative hub of Kannapolis, while the Rowan County section covers a smaller residential area on the city’s north side.
A Quick History of Kannapolis
James William Cannon founded Kannapolis in 1906 as a company town for his Cannon Mills Manufacturing Company, which ultimately became one of the largest textile producers in the world. The name “Kannapolis” also reflects this origin. It is a combination of the Greek words “kanna” (looms) and “polis” (city), essentially meaning “City of Looms.” Locals have nicknamed the city “Cannon-opolis” for decades because the mill defined everything from housing to the downtown layout.
However, the Cannon Mills era came to a sharp end in 2003 when Pillowtex (the company’s final owner) shut down. It cost the town more than 4,000 jobs in a single day, which was the largest permanent layoff in North Carolina history at the time. Billionaire David Murdock purchased the old mill site and launched the North Carolina Research Campus, which transformed Kannapolis from a textile town into a biotech and nutrition research center. This reinvention continues to drive the city’s growth today.
There are quite a few transportation options to consider when living in Kannapolis NC. The best way to get from place to place is to drive, as Kannapolis offers easy access to Interstate 85, which will take you directly into downtown Charlotte, North Carolina.
Additionally, Concord Kannapolis Area Transit has several local bus routes, getting you from place to place within the town. If you need to get out of town, then you can also utilize the Charlotte Area Transit System and the Kannapolis Amtrak Station.
What Is Kannapolis NC Population?
Once just a mill town, this small city has expanded over the past few decades, transforming into a bustling area with modern amenities while still offering a sense of Southern charm. The Kannapolis population is 57,890, which is 24.95% increase over the past 10 years! Kannapolis is a family favorite, and 60% of households in the city are married couples. Additionally, the median household size is 2.6 persons.
Kannapolis is known for being the hometown of famed NASCAR champion Dale Earnhardt. The city is full of dedications to this notable resident, including the Dale Earnhardt Plaza and the Dale Trail, which is a self-guided tour around Kannapolis.
View this post on Instagram
What Are Kannapolis Demographics?
Additional Kannapolis Demographics:
- Sex ratio: 51% male, 49% female
- Median age: 36.9
- Racial & ethnic composition: 62.7% White (58.7% non-Hispanic), 22.4% Black or African American, 7.3% two or more races, 3% Asian, 0.1% Native Hawaiian
- Educational attainment: 90.3% high school degree (or higher), 29.7% bachelor’s degree (or higher)
- Foreign-born population: 9.7%
Source: Census Reporter
Is Kannapolis NC safe?
Yes, Kannapolis is a safe place to live because the latest FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) data shows crime rate lower than the state and national averages. Specifically, the city of Kannapolis recorded a violent crime rate of roughly 168 per 100,000 residents, which is about 55% lower than the North Carolina state average (375.8) and roughly 53% lower than the national average (359.1). Most reported incidents in the city are property-related, which is common across similarly sized suburbs across the Charlotte metro.
Property crime tells a similar story. Kannapolis’s property crime rate (~1,785 per 100,000) is about 9% below the North Carolina average and is nearly identical to the national figure. The Kannapolis Police Department publishes ongoing Kannapolis crime rate and statistics and supports active community policing programs, neighborhood watch partnerships, and regional coordination with the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office. Overall, the statistics show that living in Kannapolis NC is very safe.
View this post on Instagram
Kannapolis Cost of Living
Is living in Kannapolis NC affordable? Before you move to Kannapolis, you’ll want to consider the cost of living in the area. The Kannapolis Cost of Living Index is 95.7, making the city 4.3% more affordable than the national average. Additionally, the Kannapolis cost of living is 6.8% more affordable than the cost of living in Charlotte.
According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four living in Kannapolis NC would need to earn an annual income of $101,507 per year to live comfortably in the city.
Typical Kannapolis Living Expenses
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $20.00
- Cappuccino: $4.77
- Loaf of bread: $3.49
- Gallon of milk: $4.11
- Gallon of gas: $3.26
- Average Kannapolis utilities per month: $185.57
- Fitness membership (monthly): $56.29
Source: Numbeo*
*These numbers are for the city of Charlotte, so you can expect similar or slightly lower figures in Kannapolis.
Homes for Sale and Rent in Kannapolis
Are you looking for your dream home after moving to Kannapolis? There are plenty of houses for sale in Kannapolis NC. Whether you’re searching for a historic home or browsing modern single-family homes, there’s something for you in the community.
According to Redfin, the median home price in Kannapolis NC is $300,000, which is 4.5% lower than the previous year. The Kannapolis real estate market is somewhat competitive, and these home prices are below the national average of $436,523. Homes in popular neighborhoods like Kellswater Bridge and Baker’s Creek are often sold within weeks of listing.
If you’re on the hunt for houses for rent in Kannapolis NC, or apartments in Kannapolis NC, then there are also plenty of options to choose from. Residents living in Kannapolis NC can enjoy affordable rent, and, according to RentCafe, the average rent in Kannapolis is $1,571 per month.
View this post on Instagram
Neighborhoods in Kannapolis | Best Places to Live in Kannapolis NC
As one of the best cities in NC, Kannapolis has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a view of mountains, busy streets, or areas close to shopping and dining, Kannapolis NC has it all. These are a few neighborhoods to consider before your move to Kannapolis.
Kellswater Bridge | Cozy Neighborhood Close to Top-Rated Schools
Kellswater Bridge is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Kannapolis NC for families. This area contains several single-family homes and is close to top-rated schools like Charles E Boger Elementary and Northwest Cabarrus High School.
Downtown Kannapolis | Busy Area Popular Among Young Professionals
Full of southern charm and historic buildings, Downtown Kannapolis is one of the most bustling neighborhoods in town. Walking along the tree-lined streets in this neighborhood, you’ll find hip apartment complexes, cozy coffee shops, and plenty of shopping opportunities.
Baker’s Creek | Kannapolis NC Neighborhood Close to Nature
Head over to Baker’s Creek to enjoy secluded living surrounded by nature and mature trees. In this area, residents enjoy distant views of mountains, large, single-family homes, and popular attractions like The Club at Irish Creek and Irish Buffalo Creek.
View this post on Instagram
Kannapolis NC Weather & Climate
Because the town is so close to Charlotte NC, Kannapolis shares a similar climate to this big city. When you move to Kannapolis NC, you can expect a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. Kannapolis experiences lower humidity levels compared to the rest of the state, as well as a bit less snowfall. The average snowfall in Kannapolis NC is 4 inches, compared to the US average of 28 inches. Throughout the year, the Kannapolis temperature varies from 32ºF to 88ºF, with July typically being the warmest month.
Things to Do in Kannapolis NC
When living in Kannapolis NC, you’ll find plenty of amazing things to do. You can get your grocery shopping done at places like Food Lion and Walmart. For retail shopping, check out places like CloverLeaf Plaza and Carolina Mall. When your friends and family come to visit, there are plenty of hotels in Kannapolis NC for them to choose from. These are just a few fun things to do in Kannapolis NC.
Gem Theatre
The Gem Theater is a movie theater from 1948 that shows first-run films in a large, elegant theater.
111 Laureate Wy., Kannapolis, NC 28081, (704) 932-5126
Village Park
Village Park is a must-see when living in Kannapolis NC. Here, you can explore a large amphitheater, train rides, a two-story carousel, and a splash pad for kids.
700 W C St, Kannapolis, NC 28081, (704) 920-4343
North Carolina Music Hall of Fame
Stop by this incredible museum to explore some of the best music acts to come out of North Carolina.
600 Dale Earnhardt Blvd, Kannapolis, NC 28081, (704) 934-2320
Additional Kannapolis Attractions
- Curb Records & Motorsports
- Baker’s Creek Park
- Veterans Park
- A variety of local greenways and hiking trails, such as Bakers Creek Greenway, 8th Street Greenway, Irish Buffalo Creek Greenway, and Vietnam Veterans Park Trails.
Still aren’t sure what to do in Kannapolis NC? Check out the city of Kannapolis NC event calendar or explore the parks run by the Kannapolis Parks & Recreation Department.
Restaurants in Kannapolis NC
After moving to Kannapolis North Carolina, you’ll find many amazing places to eat. These are just a few of the best restaurants in Kannapolis NC.
Chophouse 101
Stop by Chophouse 101 to enjoy a gourmet steak dinner in a relaxed setting.
101 West Ave, Kannapolis, NC 28081, (704) 933-2799
Park Road Soda Shoppe
Enjoy classic diner staples and all day breakfast at Park Road Soda Shoppe, one of the best Kannapolis restaurants.
800 Rogers Lake Rd, Kannapolis, NC 28081, (704) 933-0062
View this post on Instagram
La Catrina Mexican Bar and Grill
La Catrina is one of the best places to eat in Kannapolis NC. Stop by for delicious tacos, margaritas, nachos, and more.
1316 S Main St, Kannapolis, NC 28081, (704) 925-3983
Jobs in Kannapolis NC
As one of the most thriving cities in NC, Kannapolis is a great place to look for a job. Once home to Cannon Mills, the world’s largest producer of towels and sheets, Kannapolis has a reputation for being a staple in the manufacturing and textile industries. Although Cannon Mills is no longer around, you can still find several jobs in Kannapolis NC. A few of the top employers in Kannapolis include Atrium Health Cabarrus, Corning, and Reynolds Group Holdings.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary in Kannapolis NC is $42,149, and the median income for households in the area sits near $73,836. If you need a job after moving to Kannapolis NC, then check out the city of Kannapolis NC job board or search for ‘Kannapolis jobs’ on Indeed.
Kannapolis Schools
Are you moving to Kannapolis with children? Luckily, the schools in Kannapolis NC are widely recognized as some of the best in the nation. Kannapolis City Schools is home to six elementary schools in Kannapolis NC and one high school in Kannapolis NC. Other school systems serving Kannapolis include Cabarrus County Schools and the Rowan-Salisbury School System.
If you’d rather enroll your children in private schools in Kannapolis NC, then a few great options include RC Smith Christian Academy, Concord Lake STEAM Academy, and Covenant Classical School.
View this post on Instagram
Kannapolis is also home to the North Carolina Research Campus, which is a scientific community of eight universities (including Duke UNC and Appalachian State), focusing on scientific innovation and nutrition research. This higher education presence also supports continuing education and professional development opportunities for residents looking to advance their careers without leaving town.
If you want to hit the library in Kannapolis NC, then head over to Cabarrus County Public Library.
Kannapolis Statistics & Information
- County: Cabarrus and Rowan
- Kannapolis area: 34.06 square miles
- Kannapolis zip code: 28081-28083
- Kannapolis area code: 704, 980
- Kannapolis elevation: 764 feet
- Kannapolis time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC -4 and -5)
- Closest airport to Kannapolis: Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), 29.6 miles away
Map of Kannapolis
Before you move to Kannapolis NC, check out this map of the city.
As you can see, Kannapolis has come a far way from its years as a small city mill town. As one of the best cities in NC, Kannapolis is a great place to live for families of all ages and sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Kannapolis NC
Is Kannapolis, NC a Good Place to Live?
Yes, Kannapolis is a good place to live for anyone wanting affordable suburban living near a major city. It is located in Cabarrus County, about 25 miles northeast of Charlotte and offers a cost of living below the national average and a revitalized downtown area anchored by the North Carolina Research Campus, breweries, and Atrium Health Ballpark.
What County Is Kannapolis NC in?
Kannapolis is located primarily in Cabarrus County. A small northern portion of the city extends into Rowan County. Cabarrus County serves as the main administrative hub for most residents.
How Far Is Kannapolis From Charlotte NC?
Kannapolis sits about 25 miles northeast of Charlotte along I-85, which is about a 30 to 35-minute drive to uptown. The northeast positioning gives commuters a reverse-commute advantage during morning rush hour, since most traffic flows the opposite direction into the city.
Is Kannapolis NC Safe?
Yes, Kannapolis is considered safe by most measures. According to FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) data, the city’s violent crime rate is about 55% lower than the North Carolina state average and 53% lower than the national average and property crime are also below state levels.
Can I Post a Review or Share My Experience with Moving to Kannapolis?
Many residents share their experiences through community forums, local Facebook groups, and neighborhood apps. You can also post a review on Google or Yelp to help future newcomers learn what life in Kannapolis is really like and whether moving to Kannapolis is worth it.
What Is Kannapolis NC Known for?
Kannapolis is best known for its Cannon Mills textile heritage, which was once home to one of the world’s largest towel and sheet producers. Today, it’s recognized for the North Carolina Research Campus (a 350-acre biotech hub), the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers minor league baseball team, and a thriving revitalized downtown.
What Is the Median Income in Kannapolis NC?
The median income for households in Kannapolis is approximately $73,836, while the average individual salary is around $40,558 according to ZipRecruiter. The relatively moderate income levels are offset by a cost of living that sits about 4.3% below the national average.
Is There a Baseball Stadium in Kannapolis?
Yes, Atrium Health Ballpark is the baseball stadium in Kannapolis and serves as home to the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers, a Single-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. The ballpark opened in 2020 in the heart of the revitalized downtown area and is a popular gathering spot for families and visitors alike.
What Outdoor Activities Are Available in Kannapolis?
Kannapolis offers a variety of outdoor activities, including trails at Kannapolis Recreation Park, local greenways for walking and cycling, and hiking paths through Baker’s Creek Park and surrounding natural areas. Village Park is also famous for family-friendly outdoor recreation year-round, and many residents enjoy the mature trees and green spaces that run throughout the city’s neighborhoods.
What Is the North Carolina Research Campus in Kannapolis?
The North Carolina Research Campus is a 350-acre biotech and nutrition research hub located in the heart of downtown Kannapolis. It is built on the former Cannon Mills site. The campus brings together eight universities, including Duke, UNC, and Appalachian State, along with private research firms focused on scientific innovation, human health, and agricultural science. The campus has created a lot of jobs and is a major driver of Kannapolis’s economic transformation. It continues to attract new jobs, students, and investment to the area.
Want to Move to Kannapolis NC? Contact Us
If living in Kannapolis NC sounds great to you, then get in touch with our experienced Charlotte movers. Call Make a Move today at (704) 378-8588 for a free estimate.
