🎓 Big News: Charlotte’s First Medical School Is Now Open!

On June 2, Charlotte reached an exciting new milestone: the grand opening of The Pearl, a transformational innovation district that’s now home to the city’s first four-year medical school—Wake Forest University School of Medicine’s Charlotte campus.

Why This Matters

Until now, Charlotte held the title of the largest U.S. city without a full medical school. With The Pearl’s debut, that changes in a big way. Charlotte is stepping onto the national stage as a fast-emerging center for medical education, healthcare innovation, and biotech research.

What Is The Pearl?

This dynamic 26-acre development is located in Midtown at Baxter and South McDowell Streets. Spearheaded by Atrium Health and Wexford Science & Technology, the $1.5 billion district is set to reshape the future of healthcare—and the future of Charlotte.

Here’s what’s already underway:

  • The Howard R. Levine Center for Education
    A 14-story state-of-the-art training center for medical students in Charlotte.

  • IRCAD North America
    A global surgical training institute (with roots in France) bringing its U.S. headquarters to The Pearl this fall.

  • Community Plazas & Public Spaces
    Built-in outdoor areas for events, yoga, concerts, and food trucks—creating vibrant energy around the campus.

Why It’s a Game-Changer for Charlotte

This isn’t just about education. The Pearl is expected to drive major economic growth, generating:

  • 5,500+ direct jobs on-site

  • 11,000+ total jobs across the region over the next 15 years

  • A steady stream of new talent, researchers, and professionals fueling innovation

By the Numbers:

  • 193 students make up the incoming Class of 2029

  • 48 are beginning in Charlotte, with plans to expand to 100 students/year

  • Nearly 1,000 students will eventually train across both Charlotte and Winston-Salem campuses

What This Means for Homeowners & Buyers

Charlotte’s growth is more than headlines—it’s real, tangible, and happening now. The Pearl is already making Midtown one of the city’s most sought-after areas.

What to expect:

  • Rising property values in and around Midtown

  • Increased buyer interest from students, faculty, researchers, and professionals

  • A ripple effect of new development and opportunity in nearby neighborhoods

Whether you’re thinking of buying, selling, or simply holding long-term, this is the kind of investment in Charlotte’s future that matters.

Let’s Talk Strategy

Want to explore what this means for your real estate goals? Our team knows Midtown and its surrounding areas inside and out—and we’re here to help you make the most of this moment.

Charlotte’s next chapter is here. Let’s help you be part of it.