Transit Investments, Housing Supply, and Charlotte’s Growth

Transit-oriented development (TOD) is becoming an increasingly important strategy for planning housing in growing regions.

Charlotte’s population grew by more than 78,000 residents between 2023 and 2024 — roughly 214 people per day, according to the UNC Charlotte State of Housing report. Meeting that level of growth will require thoughtful planning around housing, transportation, and infrastructure.

Multifamily housing often plays a key role in successful transit-oriented communities by providing residential density near transit stations while offering housing options for a wide range of residents.

This conversation is particularly relevant as Charlotte moves forward with major transit investments following the recently approved Mecklenburg County transit referendum, which will support projects such as the Red Line commuter rail to northern Mecklenburg County and the Silver Line light rail corridor connecting Uptown to the Bojangles Coliseum area and beyond.

Transit investments create an opportunity to plan for long-term growth. When local governments and developers collaborate, transit corridors can support mixed-use communities that provide housing near jobs, services, and transportation options.

The Greater Charlotte Apartment Association is currently participating in the City of Charlotte’s Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Coalition, which is working with the City to provide input on how development along the Silver Line corridor best support housing, infrastructure, and community needs can.

For these communities to develop successfully, local zoning and development policies will play an important role. Predictable zoning frameworks, thoughtful land-use planning, and efficient development review processes can help ensure housing is delivered in a timely and cost-effective manner.

When local governments work collaboratively with housing developers, it can help reduce unnecessary delays and support the development of vibrant, mixed-use communities along transit corridors.

Housing located near transit can also reduce transportation costs, improve access to jobs, and provide more attainable housing options for residents across the region.

Why this matters for Charlotte region:
As the Charlotte region expands its transit network, coordinated planning between local governments and housing developers will be essential to ensuring transit corridors support housing supply and workforce accessibility.

Policy takeaway for elected officials:
Transit investments present an opportunity to expand housing supply while improving access to jobs and transportation. Smart zoning policies and collaborative planning can help ensure these corridors develop into vibrant communities that support Charlotte’s growing workforce.

Read more:
National Apartment Association – Absorbing 2025
https://naahq.org/absorbing-2025