Whether you choose to live directly on the waterfront or in a community in the Lake Norman area, the lake has been credited with the growth for the counties surrounding the waters of Lake Norman. The lake has brought us recreation opportunities and growth in businesses, restaurants and shopping.

Since the completion of Cowans Ford Dam in 1963, home and property values around the lake have increased steadily, and the individual counties have responded with infrastructure improvements to support the residential and commercial uses. At one time, a trip to Charlotte from Denver or Huntersville was a major drive, but with I-77 completed in the 1970’s and the Highway 16 bypass nearing completion, travel is just a short drive.

From Denver, it’s just 15-20 minutes to the Huntersville area, or 30 minutes to Southpark Mall in south Charlotte, and less than that to the Northlake Mall area. In addition, retailers have opened plenty of shopping in each county so there is really not a need to leave.

The eastern side of Lake Norman developed first and just after I-77 was completed. Traffic is heavier on that side and through the towns of Huntersville, Cornelius, Davidson and Mooresville but you have an extensive selection of restaurants, stores and things to do. The western side of the lake, around Denver came along later, but with the new highway this area has developed steadily since the early 90’s.