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North Carolina has earned its reputation as a retirement haven, offering a multitude of options to suit various preferences and interests. Whether you’re a social butterfly seeking vibrant communities buzzing with activities or a nature enthusiast yearning for a serene retreat surrounded by natural beauty, North Carolina has it all.
In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through the various types of retirement communities in North Carolina, each uniquely designed to accommodate different lifestyles and preferences. From luxury to affordable options, the Tar Heel State has something for everyone.
Join us as we dive into the remarkable journey through retirement communities in North Carolina, each offering a distinctive experience and a place to create new memories and friendships.
Retiring in North Carolina: How’s it like?
North Carolina offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, vibrant communities, and a relaxed Southern lifestyle. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or a peaceful retreat, the state provides a welcoming backdrop for your retirement dreams. Here’s what you can expect if you retire in North Carolina:
1. Heaven for nature lovers
If you’re a nature lover, you’ll be captivated by North Carolina’s breathtaking landscapes. Whether it’s the majestic mountains or the scenic coastal areas, the state offers the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures, relaxation, and a deep connection with the natural world. Explore the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, hike through scenic trails, or relax on pristine beaches along the Atlantic coastline.
2. Affordable living
North Carolina offers a lower cost of living compared to many other big cities such as Florida, NYC, Virginia, etc., and is about 4% lower than the US average. Housing, healthcare, and everyday expenses are generally more affordable, allowing retirees to stretch their retirement savings further.
3. Thriving communities
From vibrant cities like Charlotte and Raleigh to charming coastal towns and mountain retreats, North Carolina offers a variety of communities to suit different preferences. Enjoy cultural attractions, dining options, and a lively social scene, or embrace the tranquility of smaller towns.
4. Robust healthcare system
North Carolina is home to renowned healthcare institutions, including the Duke University Medical Center and the UNC Health Care System. Access to quality healthcare is readily available throughout the state, providing peace of mind for retirees.
5. Golfing paradise
With over 500 golf courses, North Carolina is a golfer’s paradise. The state also offers abundant opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, hiking, and birdwatching, ensuring retirees can stay active and embrace a healthy lifestyle.
6. Culinary heaven
North Carolina has a rich historical and cultural heritage which is reflected in its diverse culinary scene. Indulge in Southern comfort food, savor fresh seafood along the coast, or sample the renowned barbecue styles that vary from region to region.
Fun things to do in North Carolina for seniors
North Carolina is a great destination for seniors, offering a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and relaxation. Here are some of the fun things to do in North Carolina:
1. Outdoor activities
- Visit the Biltmore Estate (Asheville): Explore the beautiful gardens, trails, and grounds of the largest privately owned home in the US.
- Go hiking: North Carolina has many accessible trails, such as the Appalachian Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Visit the beaches: Enjoy the coastal towns of Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, Figure Eight Island, or the Outer Banks.
2. Cultural experiences
- Visit museums: The North Carolina Museum of Art (Raleigh), Mint Museum (Charlotte), and Turchin Center for the Visual Arts (Boone) offer senior-friendly exhibits and programs.
- Attend a festival: North Carolina is known for its festivals, such as the North Carolina Jazz Festival (New Bern), Merlefest (Wilkesboro), and the North Carolina Apple Festival (Hendersonville).
- Explore historic sites: Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial (Kill Devil Hills), Fort Fisher State Historic Site (Kure Beach), or the Bellamy Mansion Museum (Wilmington).
3. Food and drink
- Take a wine tour: North Carolina has over 150 wineries, such as the Biltmore Winery (Asheville) or the Childress Vineyards (Lexington).
- Savor barbecue: Sample the state’s famous ‘cue at popular spots like Lexington Barbecue (Lexington) or Skylight Inn (Ayden).
- Visit a farmers’ market: Many cities and towns have bustling markets, like the Raleigh City Farmers Market or the Asheville City Market.
4. Relaxation and leisure
- Take a scenic drive: Cruise along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile scenic road that passes through the state.
- Relax at a resort: Unwind at a senior-friendly resort like the Omni Grove Park Inn (Asheville) or the Sanderling Resort (Duck).
- Play golf: North Carolina has numerous golf courses, such as the Pinehurst Resort or the Highlands Country Club.
5. Accessible attractions
- The North Carolina Zoo (Asheboro): A wheelchair-accessible zoo with a variety of animals and exhibits.
- The USS North Carolina (Wilmington): Explore the World War II battleship with accessible ramps and elevators.
- The North Carolina Arboretum (Asheville): A beautiful botanical garden with paved paths and accessible facilities.
Best places to retire in North Carolina
North Carolina offers a variety of wonderful places to retire, each with its unique charm, advantages, and shortcomings. Here are some of the best places to retire in North Carolina:
1. Asheville
Nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene, striking natural beauty, and mild climate. The city offers a thriving downtown area, cultural attractions, and access to outdoor activities like hiking and scenic driveways along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
2. Wilmington
Located along the scenic Cape Fear River and just minutes away from beautiful beaches, Wilmington provides a coastal retirement experience. Enjoy a historic downtown, a lively arts and cultural atmosphere, and a plethora of outdoor recreational opportunities.
3. Charlotte
As North Carolina’s largest city, Charlotte offers a blend of urban amenities and a comfortable suburban feel. Retirees can enjoy a thriving arts and entertainment scene, professional sports, numerous parks, and a range of dining and shopping options.
4. Chapel Hill
Home to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, this charming college town offers a vibrant intellectual and cultural atmosphere. Retirees can take advantage of lifelong learning programs, cultural events, and access to excellent healthcare facilities.
5. Brevard
Situated near the Pisgah National Forest and renowned for its natural beauty, Brevard is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Retirees can enjoy hiking, fishing, and exploring waterfalls, as well as a quaint downtown with shops, galleries, and restaurants.
6. Hendersonville
Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hendersonville offers a small-town charm with a thriving downtown, historic architecture, and a lively arts scene. The area is known for its apple orchards, scenic drives, and proximity to outdoor activities in the surrounding mountains.
7. New Bern
Nestled along the Neuse and Trent Rivers, New Bern is a historic town with a rich heritage. Retirees can explore its beautifully preserved historic district, enjoy boating and fishing opportunities, and immerse themselves in the town’s vibrant arts and cultural scene.
8. Southern Pines
Situated in the Sandhills region, Southern Pines is known for its picturesque golf courses, equestrian culture, and a relaxed Southern lifestyle. The area offers a mild climate, charming downtown, and easy access to outdoor activities.
What are the types of retirement communities in North Carolina?
North Carolina offers several types of retirement homes to cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Each type of community offers its own unique features, amenities, and lifestyle options. Here are some of the main types of retirement communities you can find in North Carolina:
1. Active adult communities
Active retirement communities in North Carolina are designed for independent, active retirees who desire an engaging and socially vibrant lifestyle. They typically offer amenities such as fitness centers, golf courses, swimming pools, clubhouses, and organized activities and events.
2. Age-restricted communities
Age-restricted communities are designed for residents of a certain age group, most commonly aged 55 and older. They provide a peaceful and quiet environment for retirees seeking a relaxed lifestyle. These communities often offer amenities tailored to retirees’ needs, such as single-level homes, maintenance services, and community centers.
3. Resort-style communities
North Carolina offers resort-style or luxury communities with upscale living and amenities. These communities provide a high level of service, luxurious residences, fine dining options, spa facilities, and many recreational and social activities.
4. Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs)
CCRCs are all-inclusive retirement communities that offer a continuum of care. They provide independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing care within the same community. It allows residents to age in place and receive the care they need as their health needs change over time.
5. Nature-focused retirement communities
North Carolina’s mountainous regions are home to retirement facilities that embrace the natural beauty of the area. These communities are typically situated in areas surrounded by natural landscapes, such as mountains, forests, or coastal regions.
Luxury retirement communities in North Carolina
North Carolina offers numerous upscale retirement communities that cater to retirees in search of a premium lifestyle, offering an array of amenities and services. Here are our top 10 luxury retirement communities in North Carolina:
- Heritage Greens – Greensboro, NC
- Brookdale Asheville Walden Ridge – Asheville, NC
- Trinity Landing – Wilmington, NC
- River Landing At Sandy Ridge – Colfax, NC
- The Cypress of Charlotte – Charlotte, NC
- The Reserve at Mills Farm – Apex, NC
- The Pines at Davidson – Davidson, NC
- Independence Village of Olde Raleigh – Raleigh, NC
- Eno Pointe Assisted Living – Durham, NC
- Brookdale Burlington – Burlington, NC
Affordable retirement communities in North Carolina
Besides luxury facilities, North Carolina also has many budget-friendly options for seniors on a fixed income. Here are our top 10 affordable retirement communities in North Carolina:
- The Little Flower Assisted Living – Charlotte, NC
- Brookdale North Raleigh – Raleigh, NC
- Carolina Inn At Village Green – Fayetteville, NC
- Pacifica Senior Living Heritage Hills – Hendersonville, NC
- Mebane Ridge Assisted Living – Mebane, NC
- Magnolia Glen – Raleigh, NC
- Brighton Gardens of Raleigh – Raleigh, NC
- Brookdale Macarthur Park – Cary, NC
- Waltonwood Lake Boone – Raleigh, NC
- Cambridge Hills Of Pittsboro – Assisted Living
Best hospitals in North Carolina
Here are some of the best hospitals in North Carolina:
- Duke University Hospital (Durham) – Ranked #1 in North Carolina and #17 nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
- UNC Hospitals (Chapel Hill) – Ranked #2 in North Carolina and #24 nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
- Atrium Health’s Carolinas Medical Center (Charlotte) – Ranked #3 in North Carolina and #45 nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
- Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center (Winston-Salem) – Ranked #4 in North Carolina and #50 nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
- New Hanover Regional Medical Center (Wilmington) – Ranked #5 in North Carolina and #63 nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
- Duke Raleigh Hospital (Raleigh) – Ranked #6 in North Carolina and #74 nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
- Mission Hospital (Asheville) – Ranked #7 in North Carolina and #85 nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
- Cone Health Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital (Greensboro) – Ranked #8 in North Carolina and #94 nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
- Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center (Charlotte) – Ranked #9 in North Carolina and #104 nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
- Vidant Medical Center (Greenville) – Ranked #10 in North Carolina and #115 nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
How much money do you need to retire in North Carolina?
The amount of money needed to retire in North Carolina can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle, desired location, housing preferences, healthcare needs, and personal financial goals. Generally, a comfortable retirement in North Carolina is estimated to require approximately $1,000,935, which is $119,500 lower than the national average.
Final thoughts
As you explore retirement communities in North Carolina, you’ll find a wealth of options that cater to diverse preferences and budgets. Whether you envision a luxurious lifestyle filled with exquisite amenities and a vibrant social scene, or a more affordable yet comfortable retirement setting, North Carolina has something to offer.
So, take the time to research and visit different communities, and embark on a new chapter filled with enriching experiences, lasting friendships, and a sense of belonging in a retirement community that feels like home. Happy retirement!
FAQs
Is North Carolina a good state to retire in?
North Carolina is a popular state for retirement due to its moderate climate, natural beauty, affordability, access to healthcare, cultural opportunities, and a wide range of retirement communities. However, the decision to retire in North Carolina ultimately depends on individual preferences and circumstances.
Are there any dementia villages in North Carolina?
At present, North Carolina does not have a dementia village. But there are various nursing homes and active adult communities in the state that offer similar features and amenities to support older adults with memory impairments.
Is North Carolina tax-friendly for retirees?
North Carolina is generally considered to be tax-friendly for retirees. It doesn’t tax social security income, and there’s a flat tax of 4.99% on other retirement incomes. Property tax rates are relatively low, and there is no estate tax or inheritance tax either. However, it’s advisable to consult with a tax professional for personalized advice based on your distinct circumstances.
