Resident Perspectives on Life in Charlotte’s Corridors of Opportunity

Listening to Residents. Strengthening Communities.

To better understand what shapes quality of life in Charlotte’s Corridors of Opportunity, United Way of Greater Charlotte partnered with the City of Charlotte, UNC Charlotte Urban Institute, neighborhood leaders, and residents to conduct the Community Well-Being Study.

The study gathered insights from residents in the Beatties Ford/Rozzelles Ferry and North Graham/North Tryon corridors, elevating their experiences, priorities, and hopes for the future.

Why This Study Matters

Belonging begins when residents feel heard, included, and empowered to help shape the future of their communities.

This study was created to better understand how residents experience community well-being across four key areas: connection, health, neighborhood conditions, and economic stability. The findings provide valuable insight for future investments, partnerships, and community-driven solutions.

How We Listened

United Way of Greater Charlotte worked alongside partners and residents to gather community input through surveys, focus groups, and Community Advisory Boards.

The process centered resident voices and lived experiences, ensuring the findings reflect the real strengths, challenges, and priorities of the communities studied.

What We Learned

Community & Social Context

Residents shared strong community pride, meaningful relationships, and a sense of belonging. Many also expressed a need for greater awareness of resources and stronger connection to local decision-making.

Health & Wellness

Residents reported positive indicators of mental, physical, social, and emotional well-being, while also identifying access to mental health services as an ongoing challenge.

Neighborhood & Built Environment

Transportation access and neighborhood amenities were noted as strengths. Safety, housing quality, and affordability emerged as key priorities.

Economic Stability

Many residents reported financial strain, concern about rising housing costs, and interest in expanded job opportunities in fields such as healthcare, technology, education, and skilled trades.

By the Numbers

• • 595 total resident surveys completed

• • 84% of Beatties Ford/Rozzelles Ferry residents reported access to reliable public transportation

• • 80% of North Graham/North Tryon residents reported access to reliable public transportation

• • 74% of residents in both corridors expressed concern about displacement due to rising housing costs

• • About one-third of residents reported easy access to mental health services

• • Safety and affordable housing ranked among residents’ top priorities for improving quality of life

Resident Voices Matter

The most important part of this study is not just the data. It is the people behind it.

Residents shared what they love about their neighborhoods, what challenges they face, and what changes would help them and their neighbors thrive. Their voices offer a roadmap for building stronger, more inclusive communities where everyone feels they belong.

Opportunities for Action

The study identifies opportunities to strengthen community well-being through resident-informed strategies, including:

• • Expanding access to affordable housing and home repair resources

• • Strengthening community safety and trust

• • Improving access to mental health and wellness supports

• • Increasing awareness of available community resources

• • Supporting job training, financial education, and economic opportunity

Moving Forward Together

The Community Well-Being Study provides a foundation for future action. By listening to residents and working together across sectors, United Way of Greater Charlotte and its partners can help build communities where every resident feels connected, included, and empowered to thrive.

Read the Full Report

Explore the complete Community Well-Being Study, including detailed findings, resident perspectives, corridor-level data, and recommendations for future action.