March 30, 2023

Chatham County, located in central North Carolina, has blossomed in recent years as growth both within and around it has exploded. Yet, while “growth” is a word often used to describe the area, the county maintains its natural and historical charm. This is a testament to both residents and businesses alike as they build Chatham County’s future with intention and thoughtfulness.

Research Triangle Park’s proximity to Chatham County was once its primary selling point as people sought the perfect relocation spot. For those seeking a hometown that would offer a high-quality work/life balance, Chatham County was the answer. While RTP is still among the top draws to the area, available amenities go far beyond this corporate park.

Not familiar with Research Triangle Park? It is a mecca for high-tech research and development companies with a nationally known reputation for sitting at the cutting edge of innovation. Ground first broke on this 7000-acre business park, nestled just minutes away from Chatham County,  in 1959. Today, over 200 companies call Research Triangle Park home. As RTP initially attracted businesses aiming to grow their footprint in the south, Chatham County quickly became a favorite place for the employees that followed.

As the population increased (currently sitting at nearly 80,000 residents), the need for high-quality public schools also grew. Chatham County School District offers access to education that is consistently ranked among the highest in North Carolina’s public school system, enabling many to continue their education at the collegiate level. With top-notch colleges and universities around nearly every corner, CCSD graduates often choose to stay local, taking advantage of in-state tuition. The result is subsequential generations of highly qualified employees, ready to take the reigns with the local biotech, pharmaceutical, and technology industries for years to come.

Pittsboro, NC serves as the county seat of Chatham County with four other towns covering the remainder: Siler City is its largest town and Goldston is the smallest. The towns of Cary and Apex also dip into Chatham County, though the majority of their geography belongs to neighboring Wake County. Much of Chatham County is also represented by unincorporated communities, such as Crutchfield or Harpers Crossroads.

With growth comes a need to honor the environment and, as its natural beauty is one of Chatham’s biggest assets, preserving it is a priority. Proactivity is key here, shown by the county’s implementation of a watershed protection plan and promotion of sustainable practices for both residents and businesses. This has been critical to the agricultural industry as farming has been a vital component of the economy for centuries. With fertile soil, a gentle climate, and abundant water sources, the area is able to produce a wide range of crops. Many of Chatham County’s new restaurants depend on local farms to enhance menus with farm-to-table fare and farmers' markets have become the go-to produce preference for most residents.

Work/life balance has become the name of the game with options galore. Jordan Lake Recreation Area has upgraded camping sites, boat access, and public facilities in answer to increased usage. The nearly 5000 acres of woodlands and the 14,000-acre lake have since become a favorite spot to camp, fish, boat, hike (or more!). Another favorite place to relax is MOSAIC, an up-and-coming entertainment/lifestyle destination that is opening new retail spots and restaurants regularly.

The economic future is bright for Chatham County as several new businesses have announced intentions to build. Triangle Innovation Point, in Moncure, will create over 7,000 jobs by 2027 including those offered by the Vinfast plant, which produces electric cars. Wolfspeed will also bring its Silicon Carbide semiconductor plant (and 1800 new jobs) to the area by 2030.

As the job market flourishes, so does the housing market and new communities are blossoming in Chatham County. Turkey Creek will be a neighborhood built with a focus on relaxation and beauty. Burnette Mountain is home to The Summit, an exclusive community just around the corner from Jordan Lake. The Estates at Chapel Ridge boasts a premiere golf course among its vast acreage and planned community.

Chatham County has both a proud history and amazing future thanks to booming growth and development. And, with its ability to remain true to its charming past, residents and businesses will continue to be drawn to it for generations to come.