Locust, NC: Small-Town Charm, Great Schools & Close to Charlotte

If you’ve never been to Locust, NC, you might be surprised at how quickly this small city will win you over. Whether you’re looking for new home construction in Locust, NC or just curious about what life here is like, this guide will give you a local’s view of the City of Locust, NC—including where it is, what to do, where kids go to school, and why so many people are choosing to make a move here.

Where is Locust, NC?

Tucked into Stanly County (and just a touch in Cabarrus County), Locust sits about 25 miles east of Charlotte. That means you can enjoy the calm of small-town living while being just a short, 30-minute drive from Uptown Charlotte for work, shopping, or entertainment.

The Locust, NC zip code is 28097, and it’s easy to get here thanks to Highway 24/27 and NC‑200. For many people, the location alone is reason enough to consider moving to Locust, NC—you get more space, a quieter pace, and a quick commute.

A Growing Community with Room to Breathe

With a Locust NC population of just over 4,500, the city is big enough to have plenty of amenities but small enough to keep its close-knit charm. The motto here is “A City with a Soul,” and that’s exactly how it feels.

You’ll find a mix of lifelong locals and newcomers drawn in by the friendly atmosphere, affordable homes, and a community that truly looks out for one another.

Things to Do in Locust, NC

Locust is proof that small towns can still have plenty to keep you busy:

Locust NC City Park – The heart of the community, with walking trails, sports fields, playgrounds, and plenty of green space. It’s also home to summer concerts, outdoor movies, and seasonal festivals.
Boss Paintball Fields – Great for adventurous weekends with friends or family.
Reed Gold Mine – Just a short drive away in Midland, this historic spot is perfect for a day of gold panning and learning a little local history.
Community Events – From farmers’ markets to Christmas tree lightings, the calendar is always full of ways to connect with your neighbors.

Locust, NC Schools

Families moving here are often drawn by the strong reputation of the Stanly County schools Locust, NC has to offer.

Locust Elementary School – Known for excellent academic performance and a supportive learning environment.
West Stanly Middle School – Offers a variety of extracurriculars and solid academic programs.
West Stanly High School – Prepares students for both college and careers, just a short drive away.

Private and charter options are also nearby, giving parents flexibility in their education choices.

New Neighborhoods in Locust, NC – Whispering Hills

One of the most exciting additions to the area is Whispering Hills, True Homes’ newest Locust subdivision. This new home community in Locust, NC, offers new homes with spacious floor plans, customizable design options, and modern features—perfect for today’s buyers. Situated in a prime location, Whispering Hills provides easy access to schools, parks, and shopping, while still maintaining that small-town charm.

Why People Love Living in Locust, NC

Life in Locust is all about balance. Here, you can:

Have a yard big enough for kids or pets to play.
Know your neighbors and feel part of a true community.
Get to Charlotte for work or play in under 40 minutes.
Enjoy year-round events that make the city feel alive.

It’s that mix of small-town charm and modern convenience that has so many people moving to Locust, NC—and staying for the long haul.

Moving to Locust, NC? Let’s Find Your Perfect Home

Whether you’re relocating for work, looking for a family-friendly community, or downsizing to a quieter lifestyle, Locust offers the perfect balance of charm, convenience, and opportunity. With new communities like Whispering Hills on the rise, now is the ideal time to explore your options.

Discover your future in Locust, NC—where small-town charm meets modern living.