Albemarle & Stanly County

Albemarle & Stanly County:
A Hidden Gem of Natural Beauty & Small-Town Charm

Located just east of Charlotte, Stanly County offers stunning landscapes, abundant outdoor recreation, and a charming small-town atmosphere. The county seat, Albemarle, is a growing hub known for its historic downtown, vibrant community, and proximity to outdoor adventures at Morrow Mountain State Park and Lake Tillery. With affordable housing, excellent schools, and a strong local economy, Stanly County is a great option for families, retirees, and professionals seeking a peaceful lifestyle with easy access to Charlotte.

A Collection of Unique Communities

Stanly County is home to several welcoming towns and communities, each with its own character and appeal:


  • Albemarle – The largest city in Stanly County, Albemarle features a revitalized historic downtown, family-friendly neighborhoods, and access to top-tier outdoor recreation.
  • Locust – A rapidly growing town offering modern amenities, new housing developments, and a strong sense of community.
  • Oakboro – A picturesque railroad town known for its annual festivals, friendly small-town feel, and local shops.
  • Norwood – Located on Lake Tillery, Norwood is a hotspot for waterfront living, boating, and fishing.
  • Badin – A historic town with French-inspired architecture, offering beautiful lake views and easy access to Morrow Mountain State Park.

Outdoor Recreation & Natural Beauty

Stanly County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring mountains, lakes, and forests that provide endless recreational opportunities:


Lakes, Parks & Trails



  • Lake Tillery – A popular spot for boating, fishing, and lakeside living, with scenic waterfront restaurants and marinas.
  • Badin Lake – A peaceful lake perfect for kayaking, camping, and nature watching.
  • Morrow Mountain State Park – A top hiking and outdoor recreation destination, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas.
  • Uwharrie National Forest – One of North Carolina’s best locations for hiking, horseback riding, off-road trails, and camping.
  • City Lake Park (Albemarle) – A local favorite for walking trails, paddle boating, and picnicking.
  • Rocky River Blueway – A scenic water trail for kayaking and canoeing through the beautiful Stanly County countryside.

Shopping, Dining & Entertainment

Stanly County offers a mix of small-town shopping, local dining, and entertainment options, including:


  • Downtown Albemarle – Home to boutique shops, antique stores, craft breweries, and local eateries.
  • Market Station & Retail Centers – Shopping hubs in Locust and Albemarle featuring national retailers and locally owned businesses.
  • The Stanly County Agri-Civic Center – A major venue for concerts, cultural performances, and community events.
  • Local Wineries & Breweries – The area is home to several excellent wineries and breweries, such as: 
  • Uwharrie Vineyards – A beautiful winery offering tastings, tours, and events.
  • Old North State Winery – A great spot for wine lovers and live music.
  • Badin Brews – A popular brewery in Badin featuring craft beer and a laid-back atmosphere.

Business & Economic Growth

Stanly County has a growing economy supported by industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, and healthcare.



  • Atrium Health Stanly (Albemarle) – A leading healthcare provider serving the region.
  • Growing Manufacturing Sector – Home to companies in automotive parts, textiles, and advanced manufacturing.
  • Agricultural & Agritourism Growth – The county is known for family-owned farms, farmers markets, and agritourism experiences.
  • Easy Access to Charlotte – With Highway 24/27 and NC Highway 49, commuting to Charlotte is convenient for professionals.

Education & Schools

Families in Stanly County benefit from top-rated public and private schools, as well as access to higher education institutions:



  • Stanly County Schools – Offering strong academic programs, athletics, and career readiness programs.
  • Stanly Community College – A local institution providing vocational training, business education, and healthcare programs.
  • Pfeiffer University (Misenheimer) – A private university with undergraduate and graduate programs.

Annual Events & Festivals

Stanly County is rich in tradition and community spirit, hosting year-round festivals and events:



  • Stanly County Winter Wine Festival – A celebration of local wineries and vineyards.
  • Oakboro 4th of July Celebration – A classic small-town Independence Day festival with a parade, fireworks, and carnival rides.
  • Albemarle Christmas Parade & Downtown Holiday Festivities – A beloved holiday tradition bringing families and businesses together.
  • Stanly County Fair – A celebration of local agriculture, crafts, and live entertainment.
  • Uwharrie Mountain Festival – A fun outdoor event celebrating hiking, mountain biking, and conservation efforts.

Why Live in Albemarle & Stanly County?

✔ Affordable Cost of Living – Lower home prices, spacious properties, and lower taxes than metro Charlotte.
✔ Strong Sense of Community – Friendly neighbors, family-friendly activities, and local events.
✔ Access to Outdoor Adventure – Proximity to lakes, hiking trails, and forests.
✔ Growing Job Market – Expanding industries in healthcare, manufacturing, and tourism.
✔ Convenient Commute to Charlotte – Easy travel via NC-24/27 and NC-49.


For those seeking a peaceful lifestyle, scenic beauty, and a strong community, Albemarle and Stanly County are the perfect places to call home.