The gig economy is a force to be reckoned with, and is likely to keep growing in influence over the following years. Millennials, currently accounting for 47% of the total number of freelancers in the U.S., have become a critical asset in the workforce market, and they are expected to represent almost half of the country’s active workers by 2020. Charlotte, dubbed a Millennial hub, is listed by multiple sources as one of the best places for this generation, providing ample opportunities for independent workers and startups.
Neighborhood ranking website Niche.com placed The Queen City in 18th position on their 2017 list of the best cities for 25-34-year-olds, and Business Insider included it in their top 11 places where Millennials have moved to over the past few years. At the same time, North Carolina’s most populous city is a great place to start a business—the third-best in the country, actually, according to an analysis conducted by WalletHub in 2017.
So, if you want to give up your 9-to-5 office job and start freelancing or become an entrepreneur, Charlotte might be the haven you were looking for. Still, whether you’re a digital nomad or a small startup, you need a place to call your own. A coworking space might be just that: the perfect unconventional workplace where you can focus on pressing tasks or ponder your clients’ requests. After covering about some of the most suitable coworking communities in Seattle and Indianapolis, we decided to round up the coworking spaces in Charlotte and draw up a list of the best ones. Read on to see where you can set up your office.
WeWork
Coworking giant WeWork is present on the Charlotte market. Having opened in 2017 at 615 South College St., the local entrepreneurial hub is already doubling its footprint at the site, expanding its space to include two additional floors. Featuring large, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a modern, minimalistic design, complete with a cozy, warm ambiance, this is a place where you’ll feel right at home.
Those who need a spot where they camp out all day can take full advantage of the common areas and pay for a hot desk, while others can opt for a dedicated office. The coworking company tries its best to charm startups and small-sized companies, so if you have up to 50 employees you might be able to claim a large private office for your business. Amenities include cleaning services, bike storage, soundproof phone booths, professional and social events, stocked kitchens, access to a balcony and a fitness center.
Industrious
Located on the 27th floor of the Bank of America Plaza, Industrious is right next door to Charlotte’s premier museums and theaters. The 21,465-square-foot space provides, besides amazing city views, plenty of space where you can open your laptop and start working. Outfitted with common areas, conference rooms, relaxation areas, phone rooms, and even a mothers’ room, this collaborative office space can accommodate any need. The shared areas are perfect for individual workers, while those who value their privacy or who are part of a team can rent a private office. Amenities include ultra-fast internet access, unlimited free printing, local treats, and access to a coffee bar and a lounge.
Level Office
Benefiting from its central location at 227 West 4th St., right in the heart of Uptown, Level Office is an upscale workspace designed to make startups feel welcome. Young entrepreneurs can rent private offices and enjoy all the features commonly encountered in corporate campuses, such as meeting areas, conference rooms, virtual offices, and event spaces.
Freelancers too can transform this coworking space into a personal workplace, by renting a shared space, a coworking desk or a daily office. Whether you just started your own business or you’re working on a project-basis, Level Office is equipped with everything you need. Once you choose your membership plan you get to enjoy all the perks offered, from 24/7 secured access, on-site management services, and high-speed, direct-fiber Wi-Fi, to company logo display, mail services, local beer on tap and hot coffee.
Image Courtesy of Level Office Charlotte
Office Evolution
Located at 10926 David Taylor Drive, within the University Research Park, Office Evolution is a collaborative workspace focused on providing small businesses and startups with the necessary tools to enhance work performance and drive growth. The community center is outfitted with 25 private offices, a day office, two conference rooms that can accommodate up to 10 people, and a business lounge that seats up to 14 people. As you’d expect from a coworking space, amenities include free access to Wi-Fi, complimentary coffee and tea, a fully stocked kitchen, and printing services.
Image Courtesy of Office Evolution
Hygge Coworking
With three locations, Hygge Coworking is a Charlotte-based company that has quickly become one of the most popular coworking hubs in the city. Does the name ring a bell? ‘Hygge,’ the Danish word for ‘wellbeing,’ has become such a popular concept around the world that everyone is trying to achieve it—including small businesses. This ‘hyggelig’ Charlotte hub positions itself as a family-like coworking, networking, and collaborative space. Boasting a cheerful, creativity sparking ambiance, this communal workspace is a good fit for digital nomads and business owners who want to work in a friendly—and cozy—environment.
Hygge offers three membership plans that provide 24/7 access to the communal coworking desks and sofas, to a dedicated desk or to a dedicated office, as well as to all the amenities available. For those who don’t want to commit to a longer-term plan, this coworking company offers one-day passes. The chain also has a total of eight meeting rooms that can seat between 2 and 24 people at a time; these meeting rooms can be rented regardless of whether you’re a member or not. Another highlight is the podcasting studio that can be booked by anyone who wants to record something.
Image Courtesy of Hygge Coworking
The Launch Factory
Founded by Internet company SecurEdge, The Launch Factory is a boutique-style coworking space established with the intent of attracting small startups. Located in West Charlotte at 2459 Wilkinson Blvd., the place features an industrial, yet modern look, and boasts a work-friendly, productivity stimulating ambiance. Outfitted with various seating options, from large communal tables to lounge chairs and couches, this collaborative workspace is suitable for lone wolves and social beings alike.
In terms of membership, this hub offers all the classic options: day passes, unassigned coworking desks, and dedicated workstations. Startups and individuals who work in teams can rent one or more of the fully enclosed offices that accommodate between four and eight people. All memberships provide access to the high-speed Internet connection, the conference rooms, the events space, the lectures and workshops. Perks include free coffee and tea, mail and printing services, a fully-stocked snack bar, and free parking.
Image Courtesy of The Launch Factory
Packard Place
Opened in 2010 on the site of a former car dealership, Packard Place is one of the largest entrepreneurial hubs in the country and has become a fixture on Charlotte’s startup scene. Located at 222 South Church St., the 80,000-square-foot, five-story building offers startups and freelancers alike plenty of room to work in. The community center is outfitted with everything you need to spend a productive workday (or work month), to host a business meeting, to organize an event or a conference, or to enjoy a business lunch.
Packard Place has over 45 coworking desks to choose from, as well as suites, private offices, conference rooms, and even a large balcony. Besides access to the workstations, the printer, and the Wi-Fi connection, membership comes with perks such as access to a café, an in-house gym, and to office services. Decorated with local art, the whole place boasts an energetic vibe that encourages collaboration, and, if reviews are to be believed, the staff are always ready to assist you.
Platt-Form Coworking
An intriguing mix of a fitness club and a coworking space, Platt-Form is a community center with a holistic approach, ideal for those who want to plunge right into work after a gym session—or the other way around. Too small for startups, it might be a good choice if you’re a freelancer who wants to squeeze a bit of exercise into your workday.
The coworking area is equipped with ergonomic furniture, such as stand-up desks and ergo stools, complete with a few comfortable armchairs. If you’re not sure if this kind of work environment suits your style, you can opt for a one-day pass to check the place out; otherwise, you can choose an unlimited flex pass or you can book a dedicated desk. All plans give members the opportunity to join the group fitness classes or to take the Video Training for the Day.
Image Courtesy of Platt-Form Coworking
