Gaston & Lincoln Counties

The western corridor along I-85 West anchored by Gastonia -- Gaston County's seat and the metro's third-largest city (pop. 81,300+). This region spans from the inner-ring Catawba River towns of Belmont and Mount Holly (which are experiencing rapid growth from Charlotte spillover) through Cramerton, Lowell, and Stanley to the more distant mill-heritage communities of Bessemer City and Kings Mountain. Gastonia features the revitalizing FUSE District downtown and proximity to Crowders Mountain State Park. Belmont (pop. 15,200+) has emerged as a walkable, arts-friendly destination with a charming Main Street. Lincoln County's Lincolnton (pop. 12,100+) offers small-town living on the western edge of the metro. Commutes to Uptown Charlotte range from 20 minutes (Belmont) to 40 minutes (Gastonia) via I-85.