Even though the United States offers some of the best retirement locations in the world, those who choose to live comfortably in a close-knit community are especially drawn to the Southern states. This ancient state offers a wealth of natural beauty, ranging from the tiny seaside towns to the less traveled but equally stunning spots in the state’s highlands, making it one of the top 10 best towns in North Carolina to retire.
Summary:
- There are several charming retirement communities in North Carolina, offering a diverse array of natural beauty ranging from the majestic mountains to the charming coastal villages.
- North Carolina is a popular destination for retirees due to its beautiful weather, affordable cost of living, excellent healthcare system, and vibrant cultural scene.
- Asheville, Wilmington, Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, Boone, Brevard, Southern Pines, New Bern, and Greensboro are some of the best towns in North Carolina to retire, each with its unique amenities and points of interest.
Without a doubt, one of the greatest regions in the US to retire is this part of the South, partly because of the pleasant, temperate climate that allows for year-round comfort and enjoyment. Affordability is another major advantage, as living expenses are lower than in many other states. Because of the state’s vibrant cultural scene, many of North Carolina’s greatest retirement communities offer plenty of opportunities for intellectual and recreational stimulation in addition to access to top-notch healthcare.
There’s a certain rustic beauty to every aspect of North Carolina. That cozy feeling is what most people who adore North Carolina find appealing. North Carolina’s historic beauty and charm will combine wonderfully with the reasonably priced cost of living the state has to offer in retirement. After working for decades, retirees in North Carolina can take solace in the physically demanding work they undertook for decades. These are the finest places to retire in North Carolina on a budget because of the cost of living, amenities, green spaces, senior activity possibilities, and ease of access to healthcare. They are also the best affordable retirement locations.
A significant number of retirees are drawn to North Carolina by its breathtaking beaches and Blue Ridge Mountains. In your retirement years, you could take classes at a top research university, enjoy the performing arts, or cheer for your favorite professional sports team. North Carolina offers reasonable homes and a low cost of living, which could make moving there advantageous for your retirement. Two of North Carolina’s most beautiful locations are the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, both of which are entirely free to explore.
If you want to spend your golden years in a beautiful spot, think about packing up and moving to one of the top 10 best towns in North Carolina to retire, which are listed below.
Top 10 Best Towns In North Carolina To Retire in detail:
Greensboro, North Carolina
This best city in North Carolina offers a lower cost of living along with a mix of cultural attractions compared to other cities. Greensboro, North Carolina, is one of the best places to retire in North Carolina for people who want to be active and engaged well into their golden years due to its diverse and lively atmosphere. The city is well known for both its affordable and excellent medical care. The International Civil Rights Center and Museum, which recognizes the city’s significant contribution to the Civil Rights Movement, is open to visitors.
The city boasts a strong artistic culture with an abundance of theaters and galleries. The main attractions for visitors to yearly events like the Greensboro Folk Festival are the food, music, and cultural festivals.
Greensboro is far more affordable than Charlotte, Raleigh, and Durham, but it’s also conveniently close to these larger cities. You will get the greatest value out of your life in Greensboro if your monthly budget is $2,500. Here, the average cost of health care is $423, groceries cost $420, and a one-bedroom apartment is $1,069. The nickname “Tournament Town” refers to Greensboro’s abundance of sporting venues.
New Bern, North Carolina
A charming community with a wealth of history The greatest retirement community in North Carolina for fans of history is New Bern. New Bern’s stunning and historic surroundings make it an alluring place to retire. The city boasts a stunning seaside setting, a strong feeling of community, and southern hospitality. In addition to being the home of Pepsi, New Bern is renowned for its colonial past, immaculately preserved structures, and historic landmarks including Tryon Palace.
There are many things to do in the town, including vibrant art galleries, scenic riverwalks, and various water sports. An annual Mumfest and the Historic Homes and Gardens Tour add to the town’s cultural vibrancy.
Southern Pines, North Carolina
This city, which is credited with being the birthplace of American golf, is also well-known for its thriving horse sector.
Southern Pines is surrounded by the Sandhills, which gives the place a welcoming atmosphere. Southern Pines offers a year-round warm temperature and stunning scenery that appeals to retirees seeking a variety of outdoor activities and a close-knit community.
Southern Pines, a haven for golfers, is well-known for its excellent golf courses, which include the well-known Pinehurst Resort. The booming equestrian sector of the area includes several horse ranches and events.
Brevard, North Carolina
It mixes the sounds of nature with a lively music scene. The city boasts more than 200 waterfalls and is well-known for its artisan breweries. Brevard is a smart choice for anyone wishing to spend time in nature because it offers easy access to the Pisgah National Forest. This is one of the best places in North Carolina for retirees who wish to live in a small town that values outdoor activities and a close-knit community.
With its wealth of wildlife, hiking trails, and waterfalls to explore, Brevard is a nature lover’s dream come true. It is highly recognized for being in close proximity to amazing natural gems. The town is well-known for its music festivals, thriving cultural scene, and abundance of craft brewers.
Boone, North Carolina
A lovely village tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Two popular national attractions in the city are Grandfather Mountain and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Anyone looking for an outdoor-focused lifestyle in retirement should choose Boone, which is tucked away amidst the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains. Unquestionably, it is among North Carolina’s most breathtaking locations. With its laid-back, mountain town vibe, the city is well known for its breathtaking natural beauty.
Nature lovers will find paradise in this town, offering hiking, skiing, and other outdoor sports. Moreover, the town is well renowned for its vibrant arts scene and cultural initiatives that successfully combine recreation and education.
Raleigh, North Carolina
It is Customary for the State Capital to Preserve Historical Documents. It should come as no surprise that Raleigh, the North Carolina capital, has a vibrant culture with many of cultural events. Walking and bicycling are the best ways to explore because of its various walking characteristics.
One of North Carolina’s best retirement communities, Raleigh offers seniors a luxurious and satisfying lifestyle by fusing cultural diversity, Southern warmth, and modern amenities. Raleigh offers opportunities for lifelong learning and intellectual stimulation in addition to its reputation for its tech industry and research institutions.
In addition, locals can enjoy the many parks and green spaces in the city, as well as visit prestigious museums and stroll through the historic Fayetteville Street neighborhood.
A one-bedroom house in Raleigh costs, on average, $1,295. Groceries cost $441 and healthcare $431 a month, respectively. The first all-Black college, Shaw University, is situated in Raleigh, a city well-known for its lengthy past. Raleigh has the lowest percentage of its population—just 12%—among those 65 and older on our list.
Durham, North Carolina
The city is well known for its inventive and artistic community. Durham has a lot to offer both locals and tourists, making it a great place to live and retire. Prospective residents will be glad to find that this city, also known as the City of Medicine, is home to over 300 medical facilities, including the Duke University Hospital.
The city boasts a diverse range of culinary alternatives, a thriving artistic scene, and an innovative, dynamic mindset. Durham’s ideal position in the heart of the Research Triangle contributes to its resurgence as a hub for innovation.
When it comes to things to do, retirees can visit the American Tobacco District, Durham Performing Arts Centre, or Duke Gardens for its stunning beauty.
The monthly cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Durham is $1,181, with $435 going toward groceries and $445 for medical expenses. In the city, 15% of the population is 65 years of age or older. Durham is known as the City of Medicine since its primary industry is the healthcare industry.
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
A town with a strong feeling of community and lots of cultural amenities. The University of North Carolina is located in Chapel Hill, which makes it an excellent retirement destination in North Carolina since it offers a unique blend of southern charm and intellectual stimulation. The city has a relaxed, college-like atmosphere and a strong sense of camaraderie.
Retirees have access to cultural events, dining options, and opportunities for lifelong learning. Beautiful parks and green spaces across the town provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. For those who wish to continue participating, there are job opportunities and a hub for innovation at the nearby Research Triangle Park.
Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington is one of the most historic towns in North Carolina, with a beautiful riverwalk, a historic downtown, and beautiful beaches. Wilmington, with its friendly community and temperate climate, is another of the best places to retire in North Carolina. It offers seniors a peaceful environment. The city has a coastal vibe thanks to its gorgeous beaches, historic downtown, and lovely riverwalk. For retirees, there are many activities available, such as taking a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or meandering through the historic district’s streets.
The Cape Fear River offers a plethora of sailing opportunities, which makes it the perfect site for boat enthusiasts to call home. Numerous theaters, art galleries, and music venues are part of Wilmington’s thriving arts and cultural sector.
Wilmington is well-known for its role in popular culture, having served as the setting for the films “Dawson’s Creek” and “Cape Fear,” as well as for its antebellum and Civil War heritage. The price of a one-bedroom apartment is $1,132 here, and the highest monthly cost of healthcare is $539. Groceries are likewise highly expensive, at $438 per month. Wilmington has the highest percentage of people 65 and over (18%) on this list.
Asheville, North Carolina
a city with a strong creative community. The town’s pleasant weather and plenty of outdoor activities make it an excellent place to live.
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Asheville is an ideal retirement destination, offering a rare blend of natural beauty and cultural diversity. The city has a strong feeling of community and a creative, easygoing vibe.
The Blue Ridge Mountains are home to the quaint mountain town of Asheville. The town makes a fantastic base for exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Asheville’s innovative food and drink culture is well-known for its innovative integration of regionally produced cuisine.
The area’s natural beauty serves as a constant source of inspiration for artists, writers, and musicians, who come to the area to work with other creative people.
Many outdoor activities are available to retirees, including the vibrant arts scene and the breathtaking hiking trails in the Asheville region. For those who have always desired to reside in a town with mild temperatures, this is also the perfect place to be. This welcoming city offers retirees many opportunities to be engaged and active because of its thriving culinary scene, several parks, and numerous cultural events.