I currently live in Charlotte. It's different from Southern Maryland, but it's nice. Charlotte has a fairly small downtown area, but encompasses a large area. There are different areas of Charlotte.
I live in the "University" area which is right by UNCC. It is the north east part of Charlotte. There is a Verizon Pavillion where big name concerts are held all summer, sports bars catering to the College crowd, and decent homes for the money. It's a good area; crime's not too bad. But keep in mind, it is a city, and it is a southern city. Crime in the southeast has been on the rise lately.
I work in the Southwest part of Charlotte near the recently imploded Coliseum (charlotte hornet's old home). This area is also pretty nice. They are bringing to life a "light rail" soon, so this area down here is definitely growing. The border of SC is right down the way, about 10 miles south or so. There is a beautiful lake, Lake Wylie, on the border. Many nice homes out that way and I've heard the schools on this side of the city are good as well.
The Central North, West, and East sides of Charlotte are the roughest. The Center North being the worst. Definitely some areas to avoid traveling at night. But all in all, I'm happy I made the move. More diversity, more culture, more night life, better schools, lower cost of living, affordable housing..... It's a growing city, but if you are into the arts, this is a good place. I'd be happy to give you any more information if you need it.
Oh and the car insurance here rocks. I pay about $60 less a month than I did in maryland. The drawback is you have to pay annual car taxes.