Sorry for my late entry. I live in a small town called Lincolnton, about 30 minutes from Charlotte. Close enough to the city to enjoy the benefits (though I rarely do) but far enough away to avoid things like higher taxes, higher property values, crowds and traffic.

Charlotte has become the "North of the South". I work in a town 15 minutes north of Charlotte called Huntersville. Everyone there is from PA, OH, NJ and NY. Many moved here for jobs/opportunity, but yes also for Climate. These working families also brought their retired parents who love it. You would be hard pressed to find anyone who lives there that was originally from Huntersville.

NoDa is very popular among the 20-30 crowd. My daughter is 23 and she loves it, and Charlotte as well. She loves all the opportunities to listen to live music. It's not really known as the safest part of town. But I don't live there and only been there a few times, so I probably shouldn't comment on crime in that area. That 20-30's crowd like folk music and are pretty calm.

Charlotte, like many cities, have their crime problems. Most of the local news is filled with drama from Charlotte.. Don't recall anyone getting getting shot in the shower though.

Lots of the small towns within a 30 minute drive of Charlotte are typical "Southern" towns. Courthouse in the center and a few churches on main. Many of once thriving stores on main are now closed, but have been replaced by small specialty shops, restaurants and quite bars. Some even have great music stores.

Statesville would be a great place for music and culture. It's about 45 minutes north of Charlotte and has the small town appeal - if that's what you are looking for.

I think my email address is in my profile, so feel free to reach out if you have any questions.