I have a 300mi response zone with Charlotte being the most important. We have people S. & W. of Charlotte. The need is north so that traffic is not a problem.
The Concord/Kannapolis area was economically hit a few years ago when two major employers, Cannon Mills and Phillip Morris, closed, but seems to have recovered. Cannon Mills was knocked down and is being turned into the North Carolina Research Campus. When the economy turns the corner, this area will do very well.
Salisbury is worth a look, too. It has a small college, a small lake and it's closer to Greensboro and I-40.
Or Mooresville, close to Lake Norman and quick access to I-77 if that would be better for you than I-85.
Real estate prices didn't go through as large of a boom/bust swing like other areas, so if you're looking to buy, there are plenty of deals. (I'm obligated to offer the name of one of the few people I completely trust if you need a broker.)