Monroe, NC Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Monroe, NC: What You Need to Know

Monroe is located 20 miles southeast of Charlotte in central North Carolina. It’s the seat of and gateway to Union County, a hub of aerospace companies. 

Job Opportunities in Monroe, NC

Monroe is part of the Charlotte metropolitan area, known as a major banking center. Union County itself boasts of strong agricultural and advanced manufacturing industries. The county has 19 aerospace companies, which employ 4,500 people. Top employers in Union County and Monroe include Allegheny Technologies Inc., Caledonian Alloys, Goodrich UTC Aerospace Systems, and Goulston Technologies.

Cost of Living in Monroe, NC

If you’re looking for a small and affordable city in the South, Monroe (population: 35,540) might be right for you. The city’s cost of living rate and housing costs are 3.7% and 2% lower than the national average, respectively. The median gross rent is $981. Food cost is 11.1% higher than the national average. North Carolina collects 5.25% in income tax and 6.75% to 7.50% in sales tax.

What Can You Do for Fun in Monroe, NC?

Visit the Belk Tonawanda Park, an oasis of green space in the middle of downtown. The park features a splash pad, picnic facilities, extended trail system, amphitheater, and a playground. Bring the whole family to Aw Shucks Farms for both fun and information about agriculture. In the fall, the farm’s corn maze, pumpkins, and haunted trail are popular. For the rest of the year, you can check out the animal barn, general store, soda shop, and train car. The farm is available for special events.

What is Monroe, NC Known For?

Monroe is known for its history of conservative politics. Sen. Jesse A. Helms Jr., a long-time Republican politician, was born in Monroe. Helms was the leader of the “religious right” wing of the Republican Party. Monroe gained notoriety for the civil rights “kissing case” in 1958. Two African American boys, ages nine and eight, were playing with a seven-year-old white girl and other children. During the game, the nine-year-old boy and the girl exchanged a kiss. The police arrested both boys and charged them with assault and molestation. They were sentenced to a reformatory. The case became an international embarrassment for the U.S. The governor pardoned the boys after three months.

What are the Popular Shopping Destinations in Monroe, NC?

The Monroe Crossing Mall, featuring 39 stores, is the primary shopping destination in the city. Historic Downtown Monroe is another popular destination with 140 businesses, including clothing boutiques, art shops, salons and spas, and restaurants. Bargain hunters love the Sweet Union Flea Market, the largest flea market in the Charlotte area. It has over 300 vendors indoors and outdoors, plus food trucks.