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Axios Charlotte gets you smarter, faster on the most consequential news and developments unfolding in your backyard.

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Davidson makes tuition free for families earning up to $175K

Davidson College will be tuition-free starting in fall 2027 for families earning up to $175,000.

News

Davidson College has a new tuition structure that will mean free tuition for U.S. citizens or permanent residents whose families earn $175,000 or less.Why it matters: High costs are a major barrier for people looking to earn a college degree, as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2024/04/17/college-cost-survey" data-vars-content-id="c97aca6d-742a-46e2-877a-aa84282412ec" data-vars-headline="Davidson makes tuition free for families earning up to $175K" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2024/04/17/college-cost-survey" target="_self">Axios</a> has previously reported.

The latest mental health treatment in Charlotte: Ketamine

The club drug once known as "Special K" is becoming an unlikely treatment for depression.

Health

A longtime party drug is finding a new role treating depression and PTSD for hundreds of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Charlotteans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/09/29/charlotte-lonelines-cigna-isolation" data-vars-content-id="43e25325-3326-47c5-9ea0-5c13321f4c12" data-vars-headline="The latest mental health treatment in Charlotte: Ketamine" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/09/29/charlotte-lonelines-cigna-isolation" target="_self">Charlotteans</a>.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ketamine infusion clinics" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/04/28/uncertain-future-ketamine-therapy" data-vars-content-id="43e25325-3326-47c5-9ea0-5c13321f4c12" data-vars-headline="The latest mental health treatment in Charlotte: Ketamine" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/04/28/uncertain-future-ketamine-therapy" target="_self">Ketamine infusion clinics</a> are growing in the city and across the country as research points to the drug&#x27;s mental health benefits.

Iron Oak Cigar Lounge opens in Concord with bar and golf simulator

The new lounge offers more than 400 cigars, a whiskey- and bourbon-focused bar, an indoor golf simulator and more.

Things to Do

Iron Oak Cigar Lounge is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="now open" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/03/20/charlotte-new-business-openings-2026" data-vars-content-id="800914f3-5485-4019-a8cc-646ffb4c543f" data-vars-headline="Iron Oak Cigar Lounge opens in Concord with bar and golf simulator" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/03/20/charlotte-new-business-openings-2026" target="_self">now open</a> in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Concord" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2023/12/19/spend-a-day-in-concord-20-things-to-eat-drink-see-and-do-2-294442" data-vars-content-id="800914f3-5485-4019-a8cc-646ffb4c543f" data-vars-headline="Iron Oak Cigar Lounge opens in Concord with bar and golf simulator" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2023/12/19/spend-a-day-in-concord-20-things-to-eat-drink-see-and-do-2-294442" target="_self">Concord</a> with cigars, bourbon and golf.Why it matters: Owner Bjorn Mohaugen says it can take years for a cigar to go from seed to smoke, which is why he wants Iron Oak to be a place where smokers can slow down, learn the story behind each blend and discover smaller brands they might otherwise overlook.

NC falls in business ranking as growth hurts affordability

CNBC: NC still good for business but faces growth challenges.

North Carolina <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fell" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/26/charlotte-growth-population-1-million" data-vars-content-id="060d06cd-210d-412c-8141-aaa1721ada0d" data-vars-headline="NC falls in business ranking as growth hurts affordability" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/26/charlotte-growth-population-1-million" target="_self">fell</a> from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="CNBC&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cnbc.com/2026/07/09/americas-top-states-for-business-full-rankings.html" data-vars-content-id="060d06cd-210d-412c-8141-aaa1721ada0d" data-vars-headline="NC falls in business ranking as growth hurts affordability" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cnbc.com/2026/07/09/americas-top-states-for-business-full-rankings.html" target="_blank">CNBC&#x27;s</a> No. 1 state for business to No. 2 after losing ground in categories related to affordability, crime and worker protections.Why it matters: North Carolina is still considered one of the best states to do business. But this year&#x27;s ranking comes with a few warning signs for the state as it grapples with rapid growth.

A Charlotte dentist is rethinking how patients afford a better smile

A new South Charlotte dental practice offers an alternative to costly cosmetic treatments.

Partners

Cost, access and dental insurance limitations can make cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry unattainable for the people who need it most — but a Charlotte dentist is creating an alternative.The background: Dental insurance, not dental clinics, sets fixed prices for in-network care, then caps how much it will actually pay each year, typically around $1,000-$2,500.

16 new fitness and wellness openings in Charlotte

We've rounded up a list of recently opened and anticipated fitness concepts across Charlotte.

Charlotte&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fitness and wellness scene" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/01/05/five-wellness-trends-charlotte-2026" data-vars-content-id="7ad43bd0-3b33-492e-8312-0eb36e69580b" data-vars-headline="16 new fitness and wellness openings in Charlotte" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/01/05/five-wellness-trends-charlotte-2026" target="_self">fitness and wellness scene</a> is growing fast.Why it matters: The city is seeing an influx of both national brands and local concepts offering everything from Lagree and heated sculpt classes to bodybuilding gyms and recovery clubs.

Fitness studio Jungle expands to keep up with demand for heated classes

The west Charlotte boutique fitness studio is adding a second heated mat room after nonstop demand.

Jungle Cycle + Strength Studio, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a locally owned fitness studio" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/06/16/jungle-cycle-strength-charlotte" data-vars-content-id="25fdf719-8908-4654-868e-07560dcce42b" data-vars-headline="Fitness studio Jungle expands to keep up with demand for heated classes" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/06/16/jungle-cycle-strength-charlotte" target="_self">a locally owned fitness studio</a> in west Charlotte, is expanding next door to keep up with demand for its heated workouts.Why it matters: It&#x27;s another reminder that heated fitness classes remain one of Charlotte&#x27;s hottest workouts.

A massive luxury gym and wellness center is opening in LoSo

Carbon Performance combines high-end equipment, saunas, cold plunges, HYROX classes and co-working under one roof.

Carbon Performance is a 45,000-square-foot <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="luxury fitness and recovery center" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/06/11/cold-plunge-cryotherapy-charlotte" data-vars-content-id="5cdf032a-2425-46e9-b92d-2fe5f3d9057a" data-vars-headline="A massive luxury gym and wellness center is opening in LoSo" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/06/11/cold-plunge-cryotherapy-charlotte" target="_self">luxury fitness and recovery center</a> opening in Lower South End later this summer.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tennessee-born fitness company&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://carbonperformance.com/about-us/" data-vars-content-id="5cdf032a-2425-46e9-b92d-2fe5f3d9057a" data-vars-headline="A massive luxury gym and wellness center is opening in LoSo" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://carbonperformance.com/about-us/" target="_blank">Tennessee-born fitness company&#x27;s</a> expansion to Charlotte reflects the city&#x27;s growing appetite for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="high-end wellness spaces " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/01/05/five-wellness-trends-charlotte-2026" data-vars-content-id="5cdf032a-2425-46e9-b92d-2fe5f3d9057a" data-vars-headline="A massive luxury gym and wellness center is opening in LoSo" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/01/05/five-wellness-trends-charlotte-2026" target="_self">high-end wellness spaces </a>that combine strength training, recovery and lifestyle amenities under one roof.

Quick guide to building a long-term health care career in Charlotte

Health care is Charlotte's largest employer. Job seekers, here's how to find your next role.

Charlotte may be known for banking and finance — but the health care industry is Mecklenburg County&#x27;s largest employer, according to Charlotte Works.What you need to know: Whether you&#x27;re just starting out, switching careers or leveling up, the field is ripe with opportunities across hospital systems, research hubs and specialty practices like CEENTA.

How a Charlotte-based company is shifting the weight loss narrative

Many diets fail long-term. This science-backed program supports your health beyond the scale.

The surge in weight-loss drugs has many people reaching for medications that mimic natural hormones, without addressing the underlying issues affecting metabolic health.Why it&#x27;s important: Weight isn&#x27;t just about appearance. It&#x27;s tied to real health concerns like low energy, poor sleep, reduced mobility and chronic conditions like heart disease and high blood pressure.These concerns become even more pressing with age, especially after years of trying different approaches that don&#x27;t stick.

The Club to open second South End studio

The sought after fitness hub's  second location, a single-room studio on South Boulevard, is expected to open later this summer.

The Club, a popular <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="South End fitness hub" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/03/18/the-club-charlotte-fitness-coworking" data-vars-content-id="877a6f2f-02c1-4060-b230-44c6aa725512" data-vars-headline="The Club to open second South End studio" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/03/18/the-club-charlotte-fitness-coworking" target="_self">South End fitness hub</a>, plans to open a second studio nearby focused on heated workouts.Why it matters: Demand for its classes continues to outpace capacity, co-owner Nicole Paradis tells Axios.

How specialist Dr. Jeanne Hatcher cares for Charlotte's voices

Voice and swallowing issues can disrupt daily life. A Charlotte-area specialist breaks down what you need to know.

Your voice is a tool you use every day — from talking on the phone to loved ones to giving presentations at work to singing — whether professionally or just in the shower.What you need to know: Charlotte Eye Ear Nose and Throat Associates (CEENTA) helps patients keep their voices clear, healthy and pain-free with comprehensive care from specialists like<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" Jeanne Hatcher, MD, FACS" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ceenta.com/providers/jeanne-l-hatcher-md-facs?utm_source=Axios&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=Physician_Spotlight_Hatcher" data-vars-content-id="96d68ac0-2541-43f7-a03f-188783f7b443" data-vars-headline="How specialist Dr. Jeanne Hatcher cares for Charlotte&#x27;s voices" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ceenta.com/providers/jeanne-l-hatcher-md-facs?utm_source=Axios&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=Physician_Spotlight_Hatcher" target="_blank"> Jeanne Hatcher, MD, FACS</a>.

Women's coworking and wellness club to open on Providence Road

Moxie will combine workspace, retail, workouts — and even a cocktail bar — under one roof.

Moxie, a new women-focused social, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="coworking" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/03/18/the-club-charlotte-fitness-coworking" data-vars-content-id="9d3e6693-24cb-4e15-b390-571c660fac54" data-vars-headline="Women&#x27;s coworking and wellness club to open on Providence Road" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/03/18/the-club-charlotte-fitness-coworking" target="_self">coworking</a> and wellness club, is coming to Providence Road.Why it matters: Charlotte&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="wellness boom" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/01/05/five-wellness-trends-charlotte-2026" data-vars-content-id="9d3e6693-24cb-4e15-b390-571c660fac54" data-vars-headline="Women&#x27;s coworking and wellness club to open on Providence Road" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/01/05/five-wellness-trends-charlotte-2026" target="_self">wellness boom</a> is blurring the line between fitness and social life. New clubs are betting people want <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="community" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/03/19/ways-to-make-friends-in-charlotte-nc-social-groups-to-join" data-vars-content-id="9d3e6693-24cb-4e15-b390-571c660fac54" data-vars-headline="Women&#x27;s coworking and wellness club to open on Providence Road" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/03/19/ways-to-make-friends-in-charlotte-nc-social-groups-to-join" target="_self">community</a> and a place to gather just as much as a workout.

Health 🩺

The latest mental health treatment in Charlotte: Ketamine

A Charlotte dentist is rethinking how patients afford a better smile

16 new fitness and wellness openings in Charlotte

Fitness studio Jungle expands to keep up with demand for heated classes

5 Charlotte Botox deals worth knowing