I would recommend a couple miles radius around the SouthPark area (like 28210-28211 zip code) and Myers Park (like 28207-28209 zip) as far as in town goes. That would encompass quite a few areas/neighborhoods like Cotswold, Beverly Woods and others—best to hook up with a good realtor who knows that general area.

Anything on the fringes is not as desirable in my opinion—i.e., the west side (west of I-77), east side (very troublesome anywhere off the Independence Blvd. corridor except Elizabeth or Plaza Midwood neighborhoods potentially).

A few areas have really exploded in recent years, namely the University Area which is north of central Charlotte near UNC Charlotte, as well as south Charlotte all along the Highway 51 corridor or I-485. Both areas are struggling with big-time traffic issues—especially northward as you get closer to Concord. So it depends on whether you plan to work uptown or not and your tolerance for sitting in traffic. Otherwise, of these choices I would lean towards south Charlotte despite the problems of I-485 congestion. It’s just a more appealing area than the University in my opinion.

Another option similar to what you have now are looking at the Huntersville-to-Davidson areas north of Charlotte (15-30 mile range) off of I-77. I live in Huntersville and have found the commute to be no problem (25 min. average to downtown in rush hour). That area is booming and has good schools to consider. Traffic is a problem as the area grows (see the pattern here?).

Then you might think about Ft. Mill, SC which is just over the state line (also about 15 miles from center city). There is a large community called Baxter for example that is very kid and family friendly-self contained with shops, library, YMCA, etc. Plus the taxes are lower there. The downside to that area vs. Huntersville/Cornelius is the commute-much worse in rush hour.

Good luck, hope this helps!