Home to one of North Carolina's most impressive state parks, Gastonia sits 21 miles west of Charlotte, offering houses for rent that combine small-town charm with metropolitan convenience. This historic textile city features three-bedroom rental homes averaging $1,624 monthly, with floor plans typically exceeding 1,200 square feet. The Gaston Country Club area and Gardner Park neighborhood showcase established streetscapes lined with mature trees, while the Kendrick Drive corridor provides easy access to shopping centers and local eateries. Residents enjoy a 30-minute average commute to Charlotte via Interstate 85, with additional options including the Gastonia Express bus service. The local economy centers around CaroMont Regional Medical Center, Freightliner Trucks manufacturing, and various service industries. The 5,126-acre Crowders Mountain State Park offers world-class rock climbing and hiking trails, while the nearby U.S. National Whitewater Center provides outdoor adventure opportunities. Cultural attractions include the Schiele Museum of Natural History and Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. With its strategic location and steady rental market growth, Gastonia continues to grow as a desirable community in Charlotte's western corridor.