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East Forest

East Forest

Suburban Neighborhood in Charlotte, North Carolina

Mecklenburg County 28212, 28227

Neighborhood Reviews
3.2
$385,652 Average Value
$221 Average Price per Sq Ft
17 Homes For Sale

Strong community spirit and direct access to Uptown

It’s difficult to find someone born and raised in Charlotte because many people move into the area for jobs or to be close to family, and East Forest is no exception. East Forest stays true to its name with tall mature trees that shade homes lining the residential streets. This established neighborhood is between Cotswold in the north and Matthews in the south, making it an ideal spot to get access to amenities in these two areas without paying high home prices. “People move to East Forest when they want to find a home under $550,000 and still be close to highly established areas like Stonehaven and Sherwood Forest,” says Nicole McAlister, a Realtor with over 10 years of experience and who’s licensed in North Carolina and South Carolina. “East Forest is close to Uptown and Matthews, and it has a combination of people who have lived there forever and aren’t going to move and first-time homebuyers.” The Carolina Refugee Resettlement Agency is close by and partners with the local library branch to give immigrants resources in their new neighborhood. The Monroe Road Advocates, which goes by MoRA, is a group created by business owners who want to bring success to their fellow entrepreneurs by promoting new and existing businesses along Monroe Road. The group also organizes events throughout town to keep the community connected. The restaurants lining Monroe Road show the community’s diversity, but so do the places of worship, including the Korean First Presbyterian Church and Charlotte True Buddhist Temple.

East Forest locals can drive down Monroe Road to head towards the uptown Charlotte area.
East Forest locals can drive down Monroe Road to head towards the uptown Charlotte area.
From the sky, the network of roads weaves through East Forest, connecting its vibrant neighborho
From the sky, the network of roads weaves through East Forest, connecting its vibrant neighborho
From a bird's eye view of East Forest, uptown Charlotte is seen from a distance.
From a bird's eye view of East Forest, uptown Charlotte is seen from a distance.
Highway 74, in East Forest, is one of the busiest roads in Charlotte.
Highway 74, in East Forest, is one of the busiest roads in Charlotte.
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Diverse restaurants and shops like Super G Mart

Super G Mart is the largest international store in North Carolina, with three locations throughout Charlotte. One location is close to East Forest off Interstate 74, which is usually referred to as Independence Boulevard. The store is filled with spices, produce, snacks and cooking tools from across the globe, and there’s also a small food hall for anyone who wants a quick bite from the Korean Restaurant or baked goods from Honey Buns. The Galleria Shopping Center in the south half of the neighborhood has a balanced directory of national retailers like Walmart Supercenter, and locally owned shops, like Wild Birds Unlimited, which sells bird feeding supplies and organizes in-store events with the Charlotte Wildlife Stewards. Sardis Marketplace is a consignment store with over 20,000 square feet and over 60 vendors that sell unique items, from used furniture to new clothes. The store also hosts a pop-up market every September with food vendors, live music and lots of shopping. Monroe Road flows from Cotswold down to Matthews and features restaurants like the authentic Sichuan Li’s Noodles Asian Kitchen and its scratch-made dishes. Brothers Jared and John Thomas own Edge City Brewing. Regular customers who stop by the brewery are greeted by name when they enter, and anyone who visits for the first time is greeted with the same warmth as if they’ve been coming by for months. The brewery is closed on Tuesdays, but the rest of the week is packed with customers trying new brews, sampling food trucks when they visit from Wednesday to Saturday, and hanging out for trivia nights on Thursdays.

Shopper browses quaint shops, discovering treasures in East Forest.
Shopper browses quaint shops, discovering treasures in East Forest.
Market stalls brim with local produce and crafts, enticing shoppers in East Forest.
Market stalls brim with local produce and crafts, enticing shoppers in East Forest.
Shopping is made easy by the great staff at the Super G Mart in East Forest.
Shopping is made easy by the great staff at the Super G Mart in East Forest.
Residents enjoy the best sushi in town at New Zealand Cafe in East Forest.
Residents enjoy the best sushi in town at New Zealand Cafe in East Forest.
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MoRA has brought color to the neighborhood

The first art installation MoRA organized was the polished steel and mosaic Embrace sculpture that serves as a gathering place. Edge City Brewery uses the site as a stage for its Friday live music events from May to November. Local bands serenade residents of all ages as they order at food trucks and enjoy craft beers. The group also plans the MoRA Community Run/Walk Club. Participants meet at Edge City Brewery, walk or run the 2-mile route and then return to the brewery to chat over draft beers and food truck meals. The group has also added other colorful touches throughout the neighborhood. The four sidewalks at the Monroe Road and Galleria Boulevard intersection sport the Gather mural, and the two sidewalks near the Embrace sculpture have the LovN On Each Other murals. Each art installation was designed with ideas from the community to celebrate the love shared among neighbors.

The Embrace Sculpture is Located at Conference Drive and Monroe Road.
The Embrace Sculpture is Located at Conference Drive and Monroe Road.
Friends clink glasses, sharing stories in the cozy beer spot of East Forest.
Friends clink glasses, sharing stories in the cozy beer spot of East Forest.
This colorful butterfly sculpture resides at the Shalom Campus near East Forest.
This colorful butterfly sculpture resides at the Shalom Campus near East Forest.
The sidewalks in East Forest contain some art as well.
The sidewalks in East Forest contain some art as well.
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Established ranch-style homes and new townhouses in East Forest

The area from McAlpine Park to the Galleria Shopping Center is primarily commercial properties, while the rest of East Forest has single-family homes, townhouses and apartment complexes. “East Forest mainly has ranches, mature trees and large lots,” McAlister says. “The neighborhood isn’t new, but I’d say it’s become recently desirable. People move down from the city to be close to family who live in Mint Hill or Cotswold, and if they want to be close to Matthews.” A healthy number of original homeowners still live in East Forest, with new people moving into the area occasionally. Most homes have ranch-style, split-level or Craftsman designs and were built between the 1960s and '80s. The newest homes are townhouses along Ramada Road that were built in 2024, and the occasional new construction is done on infill lots. The neighborhood is close to Uptown and Matthews, but homeowners get larger lots for less than they would in either of these areas. Single-family homes often range from $300,000 to $575,000, while newly built homes can cost $575,000 to $745,000. Townhouses usually sell for between $145,000 and $300,000.

Brick, Ranch style homes typically have large yards in East Forest, North Carolina.
Brick, Ranch style homes typically have large yards in East Forest, North Carolina.
Large trees encompass the front yards of split-level homes in East Forest.
Large trees encompass the front yards of split-level homes in East Forest.
A ranch home in East Forest with a single car garage.
A ranch home in East Forest with a single car garage.
Nice Brick Ranch Style Homes with Large Yards in Charlotte's East Forest Neighborhood
Nice Brick Ranch Style Homes with Large Yards in Charlotte's East Forest Neighborhood
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Driving Independence Boulevard or taking a CATS bus

East Forest residents have options when it comes to commuting to work. Matthews is a shopping and dining destination 3 miles south of the neighborhood. Drivers can skirt past congestion on Independence Boulevard using Monroe Road when traveling to the Matthews Target, downtown shopping scene or the Novant Health Matthews Medical Center. Independence Boulevard is the primary route when heading 8 miles north to Uptown. The trip can take roughly 20 minutes without traffic, though there’s always traffic in the morning and evening. The busy highway settles down during the summer, but commuters always deal with the congestion or leave work later to avoid the hassle. There are multiple CATS bus stops along Independence Boulevard and Monroe Road. The blue and white buses run from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. and travel to the Charlotte Transportation Center in Uptown. Charlotte Douglas International Airport is 16 miles away, about a 30-minute drive.

Highway 74 Heading North Towards Uptown Charlotte.
Highway 74 Heading North Towards Uptown Charlotte.
East Forest's public transit system links residents seamlessly.
East Forest's public transit system links residents seamlessly.
East Forest is a walkable neighborhood.
East Forest is a walkable neighborhood.
East Forest is just 10 minutes from Uptown Charlotte.
East Forest is just 10 minutes from Uptown Charlotte.
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Exploring McApline Creek Park and Mason Wallace Park

McAlpine Creek Park is the largest park in the neighborhood, with 114 acres. Morning runners and walkers can practice on the gravel Larry McAfee Cross Country Course while anglers try to catch catfish in the pond nearby. The dog park has two main areas, one being a large grassy area for dog owners to let their pets run free. The second is a shaded and enclosed area with space for dogs that weigh less than 20 pounds and a separate area for those that weigh more than 20 pounds. Mason Wallace Park is smaller but has more space for kids to play. The playground equipment has paved parking in front, with baseball and soccer fields behind it. In a pocket among towering trees, the paved basketball court has a picnic table for anyone who wants to watch a pickup game. A dirt path winds around the court and leads back to fenced-in tennis courts. The Charlotte Mecklenburg Library - Independence Regional is further up Monroe Road from Mason Wallace Park, where locals go to take advantage of all the programs and resources the library offers. In addition to inviting immigration attorneys to speak and organizing free language courses, the library also helps residents find their community during Culture Blocks, from hosting guest speakers to creative workshops.

Fishermen cast lines, embracing the peaceful waters in East Forest.
Fishermen cast lines, embracing the peaceful waters in East Forest.
Athletes stride along the forest trails, soaking up nature's energy in East Forest.
Athletes stride along the forest trails, soaking up nature's energy in East Forest.
Locals enjoy bringing their pets for a walk at McAlpine Creek Park in East Forest.
Locals enjoy bringing their pets for a walk at McAlpine Creek Park in East Forest.
Cyclists pedal through scenic paths, embracing freedom in East Forest.
Cyclists pedal through scenic paths, embracing freedom in East Forest.
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East Meck offers specialty courses

Greenway Park Elementary gets a C-plus from Niche and offers prekindergarten through fifth grade. The next step is McClintock Middle School, which also earns a C-plus and serves sixth through eighth grade. East Mecklenburg High School receives a B-plus. East Meck, as it’s often called, has a range of specialized courses to let students follow their passions, including culinary arts and clothing design. East Forest is close to Charlotte Christian School, where previous Panther football players Greg Olson, Luke Kuechly and Jonathan Stewart are coaching middle school football starting in the 2024-2025 school year.

East Mecklenburg High in the East Forest neighborhood.
East Mecklenburg High in the East Forest neighborhood.
Greenway Park Elementary in the East Forest neighborhood.
Greenway Park Elementary in the East Forest neighborhood.
Charlotte Christian School has a great bond between teachers and parents.
Charlotte Christian School has a great bond between teachers and parents.
McClintock Middle School main entrance.
McClintock Middle School main entrance.
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Rylee Doyle
Written By
Rylee Doyle
Ryan Gwilliam
Photography Contributed By
Ryan Gwilliam
Kellan Beaver
Video By
Kellan Beaver

Agents Specializing in this Area

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Schools

Source:
GreatSchools: The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process. View GreatSchools Rating Methodology

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Liz Young, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Parks in this Area

Transit

Airport

Charlotte/Douglas International

28 min drive

Bus

Independence Blvd & 7016

Bus

Monroe Rd & Pinafore Dr

Bus

Monroe Rd & Burtonwood Cir

Bus

Monroe Rd & Long Ave

Bus

Monroe Rd & Mason Wallace Park

Bus

Monroe Rd & Fox Run Dr

Bus

Monroe Rd & Mcmullen Way

Reviews

Niche Reviews
3.2 15 Reviews
5.0 Current Resident
3/6/2020 Niche Review
Everyone in the neighborhood has lived there for years so everyone knows one another. We're like a big family and always look out for another. It's a very quiet neighborhood and not much goes on. There's always a neighborhood event going on when a major holiday arrives.
3.0 Niche User
9/16/2015 Niche Review
The area I live in is okay
3.0 Niche User
5/8/2015 Niche Review
They are very small. Some of them make me want to go inside and take a look but some other are the opposite
3.0 Niche User
5/8/2015 Niche Review
There are a lot of job opportunities but they are not life changing jobs
Are you familiar with the East Forest neighborhood? to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.

Crime and Safety

1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime East Forest US
Homicide 4 4
Sexual Assault 5 4
Assault with Weapon 5 4
Robbery 5 4
Burglary 5 4
Motor Vehicle Theft 6 4
Larceny 5 4
Crime Score 5 4

Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com

Demographics and Home Trends

Home Trends

Median Price (12 Mo)
$322,500
Median Single Family Price
$475,000
Median Townhouse Price
$248,500
Median 2 Bedroom Price
$171,500
Median 1 Bedroom Price
$99,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$221
Number of Homes for Sale
17
Last 12 months Home Sales
75
Months of Supply
2.70
Median List Price
$325,500
Median Discount From 1st List Price
3%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-10%

Home Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
1,517
Median Year Built
1973
Avg. Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
1,827
Below the national average
1,935
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
1,455
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
939
Average 1 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
715
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
15,245

Open Houses

  • Saturday, Apr 26
    1 - 3pm

    7200 Monroe Rd, Charlotte, NC 28212

    $685,000

    • 4 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 2,031 Sq Ft
    • 7200 Monroe Rd
    • New 9 days ago

    Welcome to your dream home in Burtonwood! This fully renovated 4-bedroom, 3-bath brick ranch sits on a spacious, over-sized lot in one of Charlotte’s most desirable and friendly neighborhoods. Every inch has been thoughtfully upgraded with quality craftsmanship and stylish modern finishes.Highlights include:• Show-stopping chef’s kitchen with quartz countertops, gas range, premium stainless

    Christina Rainford Coldwell Banker Realty

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  • Friday, Apr 25
    8am - 7pm

    7301 Pebblestone Dr Unit F, Charlotte, NC 28212

    $243,000

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 1,342 Sq Ft
    • 7301 Pebblestone Dr
    • Unit F
    • New 17 days ago

    Seller may consider buyer concessions if made in an offer. Welcome home to this charming property! This home has Fresh Interior Paint. A fireplace and a soft neutral color palette create a solid blank canvas for the living area. The primary bathroom features plenty of under-sink storage waiting for your home organization needs. A must-see!

    Whitley Miller Opendoor Brokerage LLC

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  • Friday, Apr 25
    8am - 7pm

    8069 Cedar Glen Dr Unit 8069, Charlotte, NC 28212

    $188,000

    • 2 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 883 Sq Ft
    • 8069 Cedar Glen Dr
    • Unit 8069

    Seller may consider buyer concessions if made in an offer. Welcome to this stunning property with a cozy fireplace, natural color palette, and a kitchen featuring a center island and a nice backsplash. The primary bathroom boasts good under sink storage, making organization a breeze. Enjoy the warmth of the fireplace on chilly evenings, while the neutral tones throughout provide a calming

    Whitley Miller Opendoor Brokerage LLC

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Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Liz Young, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Average Home Value




Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

This Neighborhood Has More Renters

Demographics

Total Population
11,654
Median Age
35
Population Density
5 ppl/acre
Population under 18
25.6%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
10.2%
Below the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$51,977
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$60,062

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
86.6%
College Graduates
34%
Advanced Degrees
9.6%
On par with the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
76.6%
Above the national average
65.1%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
48''
Average Winter Low Temperature
31°F
Average Summer High Temperature
90°F
Annual Snowfall
2''

Area Factors

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score®

26 / 100

Car-Dependent

Walk Score®

21 / 100

Some Transit

Transit Score®

35 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.

Nearby Neighborhoods

Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
NEIGHBORHOOD
East Forest