Discover real estate opportunities near Microsoft's $1 billion data center investment creating 4 facilities, 50+ tech jobs, and unprecedented housing demand in Catawba County
Microsoft's massive 10-year commitment to Catawba County infrastructure
Facilities in Hickory, Conover, and Maiden creating tech job hub
50+ direct jobs plus hundreds of construction and support positions
Get detailed market insights for homes near Microsoft's $1 billion data center campus. Our comprehensive report includes tech sector growth impact, property value trends, and investment opportunities in this emerging technology hub.
Microsoft's historic $1 billion investment in Catawba County represents the largest technology infrastructure project in the region's history. With four data center facilities planned across Hickory, Conover, and Maiden, this development is creating unprecedented demand for housing as tech workers, contractors, and support personnel relocate to the area.
The data center campus spans over 685 acres across multiple sites, with construction beginning in 2024 and continuing through 2032. Beyond the 50+ direct Microsoft jobs, the project is generating hundreds of construction positions and supporting roles, creating a ripple effect throughout the local housing market and driving demand for both rental and purchase properties.
Projected Avg Price
Days on Market
High Demand
Construction Phase
Microsoft's $1 billion commitment to Catawba County represents one of the largest single corporate investments in western North Carolina's history. The technology giant is developing four state-of-the-art data center facilities across strategic locations in Hickory, Conover, and Maiden, creating a distributed campus designed to support Microsoft's Azure cloud services and global technology infrastructure.
Construction began in July 2024 at the Stover datacenter site in Hickory, with the first facility expected to be operational by spring 2025. The project includes two sites in Hickory totaling 176 acres, a 219-acre facility in Conover, and 292 acres in Maiden. Each location has been strategically chosen for optimal power infrastructure, connectivity, and workforce accessibility.
Beyond the immediate construction and operational jobs, Microsoft has committed to workforce development programs, IT training partnerships with local educational institutions, and community investment initiatives. The company's presence is expected to attract additional technology companies and create a regional tech hub that will transform Catawba County's economic landscape and drive sustained housing demand through 2032 and beyond.
Two data centers on 176 total acres, including the Stover site near Hickory Lincolnton Highway and a Tate Boulevard location. First facility operational spring 2025.
Nearby Housing: Historic Hickory neighborhoods, new developments
219-acre data center campus behind Walmart area, strategically positioned for workforce access and infrastructure connectivity.
Nearby Housing: Conover subdivisions, family-friendly communities
292-acre facility along Zeb Haynes Road, the largest single site in the Microsoft Catawba County development plan.
Nearby Housing: Maiden neighborhoods, rural estates, new construction
378-acre Class A business park supporting the broader tech ecosystem with Corning Inc. and other technology companies complementing Microsoft's presence.
Nearby Housing: Professional communities, executive homes
Microsoft partnerships with local schools and colleges for IT training programs, creating skilled workforce and additional housing demand.
Education Hub: Catawba Valley Community College, local programs
Regional tech hub development attracting additional companies and creating multiplier effects for housing, retail, and service industries.
Market Growth: Sustained demand through 2032 and beyond
$275,000 - $425,000
Modern homes with home office space, high-speed internet infrastructure, and proximity to data center facilities. Perfect for Microsoft employees and contractors.
$425,000 - $650,000
Premium homes in established neighborhoods for senior tech professionals, featuring luxury amenities and convenient access to all Microsoft campuses.
$195,000 - $325,000
Rental properties and townhomes targeting the influx of construction workers, contractors, and temporary tech personnel during the 10-year construction phase.
$1B investment ensures long-term job creation and housing needs
Technology positions with above-average salaries and benefits
Enhanced utilities, roads, and broadband supporting property values
Attracting additional companies and creating ecosystem growth
Sustained construction and development through 2032
Let Smith Realty Group help you find the perfect home near Microsoft's data center campus. Expert knowledge of tech sector real estate and emerging market opportunities.