best beach retirement communities in north carolina

Some of these towns are quiet getaways focused on surf and sand, while others offer shopping and strolling along old-timey boardwalks and adventures on the water. 9 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars. Most Affordable Beach Communities in North and South Carolina, Password requires min. An increasing number of baby boomers are choosing the quiet, low-crime towns of the Outer Banks as their full-time residences. 2007 2023 55places.com, a division ofNeighborhoods.com. Boone. Just recently voted in the top 10 places to retire in North Carolina, Black Mountain is nearby Asheville and has a tiny population of just under 8,000 residents. 2533 Hendersonville Road. Swansboro sits at the confluence of the Water Oak River and Intracoastal Waterway, just minutes away from Hammocks Beach State Park and Emerald Isle. 8 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin, MD, MBA, is serving as Zillow's health advisor. I sold my home in 2021 and moved to another in Southern Shores, just closer to the beach. Named by Southern Living as one of the best beach towns in Northern Carolina, Emerald Isle is a small, charging community that makes the perfect home for families, singles, and professionals alike. Call us to speak with a customer service representative. Residents are also just seven miles from the beach and are within proximity to shopping centers, outdoor recreation, entertainment, and restaurants throughout the Myrtle Beach area. Read 38 reviews. If you are looking for a place to retire with lots of amenities, friendly neighbors, numerous social activities, but not intrusivelook no further. If you walk all the way down to the western part of the beach you can see the kindred spirit mailbox. Raleigh and Durham. Raleigh and Durham. Ranking based on data from the U.S. Census, FBI, CDC, and other data sources. Largely a residential isle, Holden Beach is all about simple pleasures, from biking and kayaking along with playing on the beach during the day, to ghost crabbing at night. Featured Review: Niche User says Generally a very safe area in the suburbs, a little less so downtown. It is great for starting families! Small, but everyone is super friendly and it is easy to know people from the area. THE SHOOK HOME - Chambersburg, PA CCRC . Travelers who are making plans to visit any European cities must take, Read More The 20 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe in 2019Continue, With its beautiful shoreline, world-famous diners, and abundance of fresh produce, New Jersey is the kind of state we all kind of wished we lived in. Weve gathered 25 of the best places for snowbirds, including cities in Florida, Arizona, California, Texas, South Carolina, and Nevada. Lots are priced from $189,000 to $200,000; Patio Homes, Custom and Resale Homes from the $500,000 to $990,000. This golf and resort community offers the best in coastal living, along with championship golf courses, resort-style amenities, and a wide variety of homes. Search gated, golf, and retirement communities based on amenities or location. Welcome Go to My Account . Details here. I love our beautiful beaches, lighthouses and our wild horses that live on. Former Resident: I had lived there for six years and it is one of my most favorite places to live. #22 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina. Discover the schools, companies, and neighborhoods that are right for you. Known as one of the best cities for single folks, Boone also has some of the most romantic setups in the state. We are five minutes from beach and 10 minutes from North Myrtle Beach. #4 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina. Take advantage of specially priced visitation pacakges from the areas premier master-planned communities and take your first step to discovering Coastal North Carolina's top lifestyle communities. That may be so, but its not only the gray brigade who stand to benefit from its attractions. So many things to see and do, and the people are extremely friendly and helpful.. Current Resident: Tryon is a small quaint town located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 7 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. Stay Safe. The cities are vibrant, the towns are charming, and the landscape will leave even the most jaded city slicker a little breathless. Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. Just south of Beaufort, this quiet fishing community known for retaining the Down East dialect has also become a popular spot for retirees. Everyone there is. Current Resident: Excellent small town with beautiful weather most of the year. There's a reason this tiny harbor town at the outlet of the Cape Fear River was voted America's Happiest Seaside Town in 2015. North Carolina presents residents with stunning options for various lifestyles. PER CAPITA INCOME FOR POPULATION: $38,494. I couldnt ask to live in a better town. Read 11 reviews. Flat Rock also has many different parks with walking and hiking trails. Read 8 reviews. 8 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars. Featured Review: Former Resident says I had lived there for six years and it is one of my most favorite places to live. Thanks to its status as a university town, its blessed with a lively, vibrant atmosphere. Charlotte. Ocean Isle Beach NC / 910-575-2933. Compass Pointe is a gated, resort style community unlike anything else you'll find. The clubhouse offers a restaurant & bar, pro shop, outdoor fire pit, and year-round events. A minus. Best Places to Retire Best Places Real Estate Money Home 150 matches Sort by: Real Estate Rankings Best Places to Live Best Places to Retire Population Size X-Large 2.5M+ Large 1M -. Whatever you're seeking, this lively beach community has plenty of watersports, family activities, and beachside events in the summer. Plenty of boating and golf opportunities. You'll find both hotels and vacation rentals in which to enjoy a classic beach vacation. Asheville is famous for free-thinking residents and plenty of artists and creators. North Carolina Communities. Bermuda Run, NC 27006. Learn more aboutDel Webb at Cane Bay here. One of the first questions many retirees ask before making their move is if the active adult community is pet friendly.While many age-restricted communities have different rules when it comes to pets, retirees are sure to find the ideal 55+ community that caters to pet lovers. Searching for Active Retirement on Retirenet.com is simple and easy. in Journalism from Columbia University. Whether you stay a week, a year, or an entire lifetime, youre unlikely to regret your decision. Del Webb's North Carolina retirement communities are perfect for active adults. Transplants relish the island's quiet beaches, which are bounded by rolling dunes and sapphire waves. . Named one of the "top 50 Best Master-Planned Communities" in the United States by Where to Retire magazine. 4. Featured Review: Current Resident says I loved growing up in a small beach town. The affordable cost of living and low housing prices mean relocating to North Carolina could help improve your retirement finances. and retirement communities with golf. Bordered by Florida, South Carolina, Alabama, Tennessee, and North Carolina, Georgia encompasses 59,425 square miles with 9.9 million residents. There are lots of restaurants, so many different shopping areas. 142 Bermuda Village Drive. . Former U.S. World-class amenities are found at the communitys 20,000 square-foot clubhouse that includes state-of-the-art facilities and well-appointed indoor and outdoor recreational amenities. Lots priced from $100,000 to $250,000; Homes from the $400,000s to over $1 million. The best retirement communities in South Carolina include neighborhoods in Hilton Head Island, Myrtle Beach, and Cane Bay. 60 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. Have everything you need around the block. Speak with our licensed and experienced community specialist for guidance with your search. Whether youre interested in a low-maintenance single-level residence, an active lifestyle or age-qualified community, an intimate enclave, or anything in between, we can help you make your next move the best one yet. Featured Review: Current Resident says Excellent small town with beautiful weather most of the year. Tracey Minkin is an award-winning writer and editor whose work has appeared in national and regional magazines as well as digital platforms including Southern Living, Coastal Living, Travel + Leisure, Outside, Food & Wine, Men's Journal, VERANDA, and many more. Competing for attention with all the great, Read More The 20 Best Places to Live in New JerseyContinue, Racism is the unfounded belief that one race is superior or inferior to another and that biological characteristics can predetermine the social or moral traits of a person. No matter which of our favorites you choose, you'll feel restored by an escape to small-town life at the beach. Retirement should be spent doing what you love, and if you love spending the day out on the boat, then these communities will be right down your lane. In addition to providing you with information on coastal Carolina's top lifesytle communities, Carolina Ocean Living can personally assist you with your community search. Bella Vista Retirement is set against the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains communities of North Carolina. Lots priced from $12,000 to $300,000; Homes, Townhomes, Villas & Condos priced from $100,000 to $1 million. 15 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars. Emerald Isle 7500 Emerald Drive Emerald Isle, NC 28594 (252) 354-3424 If you're looking for the amazing beach to swim in North Carolina, consider visiting the immaculate beaches and cozy ambiance of the luxurious Emerald Isle. In Roman times, the town of Baiae, by the Tyrrhenian Sea in Italy, was a resort for those who were sufficiently prosperous. Homebuyers can find reasonably priced homes starting in the low $200s that offer low-maintenance exteriors, elegant finishes, open kitchens, spacious great rooms, and charming front porches. The neighbors are very sociable, laid back and friendly. Everyone there is very welcoming and I feel like I can learn to my best potential. Read 25 reviews. Georgia is rich with culture and history. Normal precipitation: 67 inches. It is starting to become more modern with some nice initiatives by the governing bodies (a new Publix on the Island to open this year 2020) to make it even more amenable to its residents and vacationers. At the southern end of the coast and a quick hop from buzzy Wilmington, this laid-back beach town on a 4-mile-long barrier island has charm in spades, from a bird nesting sanctuary at the south end to its iconic Johnnie Mercers Pier. Most Affordable Places People are Buying Virtual Real Estate For Huge Amounts of Real Dollars, The 20 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe in 2019, The 20 Most Racist Towns in America According to Google, The 20 Cheapest Places to Live in the Caribbean, How Zac Stacy Achieved a Net Worth of $6 Million. Awarded the 2016 Bliss Award for Best North Carolina Community of the Year, Compass Pointe offers new homes, townhomes and lots for sale in a gated resort and retirement community near North Carolina's Cape Fear coast, with golf, tennis and other club amenities under development. Resort-style community with 2- and 3-bedroom detached single homes and 2-car garages started $300's. In addition to the seaside towns, there are communities all over the state ideal for retirees looking for sun and relaxation. Because North Carolina has 3,000 miles of coastline (including more than 300 miles of barrier beaches alone), there are many wonderful beach towns and harbors that are just a short boat ride away from the sand. Residents living in this exciting age-restricted community also have easy access to sandy beaches, cultural attractions, entertainment, shopping, and restaurants within the Charleston area. 1 Niche users give it an average review of 1 stars. You will find many communities and homes to fulfill your retirement dreams. It is great for starting families! Featured Review: Current Resident says Flat Rock is a small area but it is close to Saluda, the border of South Carolina, and Hendersonville. The median home price is about $209,000. 10. World-class amenities include: 18 holes of golf at Cape Fear National Clubhouse, Restaurant & Pro-shop Fitness & Wellness Center with Indoor & Outdoor Pools Hammock Lake Park, Pool, and Fitness Center Learn more! It also consists of just over 1,000 low-maintenance single-family homes that are priced from the low $100s and feature back patios or Carolina rooms that allow homeowners to enjoy the beautiful coastal climate. Crammed with malls, restaurants, shops, and bars, its big, fun, and the ideal spot for a family-friendly vacation. In 2012, Budget Travel Magazine named it Americas Coolest Small Town. Within two minutes of arrival, youll understand why. #12 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina. Conclusion: Durham is considered by many as one of the best places to retire in North Carolina if you can afford the higher cost of living. Plus, there's almost seven rooms per house on average, so you'll have lots of space. B+. The future is once again knocking on our doors, and this time it comes in the form of virtual reality. In this town, everyone knows everyone, allowing for a family oriented community to flourish. Read 14 reviews. Oyster Bay, Sea Trail and Sandpiper are the three major developments in Sunset Beach. North Carolina vs North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Change Places . If you dont fancy getting your feet wet, the Riverwalk is a great place to take a stroll, particularly at sunset. 25 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. Horton. Thanks to very reasonable property prices, low crime rates, and some very decent amenities, its also an unquestionably amazing place to live. Oak Island is also a dog lover's dream: Four legged friends are allowed on the beaches year-round, and they can be off the leash from October 15-March 15. Emerald Isle. Just 51 miles away from New Orleans, Bay St. Louis couldn't feel further from the hustle and bustle. 2. They have a great selection of restaurants, things to do, and scenery to look at! If youre considering making your next visit the permanent kind, check out these 10 best places to live in North Carolina near the beach. An increasing number of baby boomers are choosing the quiet, low-crime towns of the Outer Banks as their full-time residences. Featured Review: Senior says GDS is an extremally nice and well rounded school. The community is just 30 minutes from Wilmington, NC and one hour from Myrtle Beach, SC. 182 Communities in North Carolina View All Filter communities by. Find Oceanfront & Beachfront Communities Near You It ranked as the best active adult community in Myrtle Beach in 2017. This amenity-rich community is set in unique surroundings characterized by rolling hills, towering oaks, and moderating Gulf breezes. Like all, Read More The 20 Best Places to Live in DenverContinue, There is a high level of unrest in the world today with crime rates soaring in some of the major cities throughout Europe. Now this "Mayberry by the Sea" is an idyllic spot to meander, eat out at area restaurants, and soak up the suneveryone's welcome to enjoy beaches on both the Atlantic and Intracoastal Waterway sides, including dogs, who can hit the beach with their masters year-round (but must stay on a leash from May 15-September 30). Homes priced from $200,000 to $2 million; Lots from $50,000 to $500,000; Condos from $150,000 to $600,000. It has a load of live oaks across the Island, yet walking distance to the beach or intracoastal waterway. There are many amenities within the community such as the various lakes and horseback riding. New Orleans, known for its historic French Quarter, is a "haven" for the LBGT community due to its "abundance . It's not just all about the fun to be had driving on the broad sands of this southern coast getaway at the northern end of Pleasure Island; or hitting its vintage boardwalk (which features old-school amusement rides in summer), lively beach bars, and superb seafood spots. Buyers can choose from three elegant home design collections that range in size, style, and price points. The State offers plenty of outdoor activities, hundreds of best places to retire - from livable cities to quaint harbor towns like Beaufort , and . Beautiful walks whichever way you go and bicycling at its best. Most people just mind their own business and they are very nice. With nearly 85 percent of its total area a preserved landscape of salt marshes, tidal creeks, and scrubby, subtropical forest, plus 14 miles of pale sands, the oldest lighthouse in North Carolina, locally owned shops, and a community of beautiful beach houses, this is most certainly a Treasure Isle. Families (not to mention singles and retirees) who decide to make their visit a little more permanent wont be disappointed, With a decent clutch of schools, plenty of amenities, an affordable cost of living, superb recreational opportunities, and one of the prettiest beaches in North Carolina, theres no doubting its a great place to live. 10. Cypress Landing. Tybee Island, GA Tybee Island is an island town located about twenty minutes from Savannah, GA. Tybee is a classic beach town with outdoor dining, beach shops, and miles and miles of sandy beach. Its wide, sandy beach and aquamarine waters are a beachcombers dream, while the range of water sport opportunities on offer will leave no one disappointed. While Tryon used to be a busy small town during the early to mid 20th century due to the expansion of railroads through out Appalachia, Tryon has become more of a retirement community for those who like to enjoy the slow and laidback pace of rural Appalachia. Read 7 reviews. Discovery Package Available They have plenty of sites to explore, whether you're a pirate fanatic, intrigued by early colonial history, excited by sea turtles, or anxious to see herds of wild horses. Ultimately GDS is a great school and community that is very close and will not only prepare you for what is next but also allow you to form strong long lasting bonds with class and school mates. Read 60 reviews. Lots from the $14,000 to $250,000; Homes from $325,000 to over $800,000. It is also very safe and has lots of outdoor and water activity options. Overall, one of the best communities in North Carolina and perhaps nationally as well. Read 9 reviews. 6 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars. Several of these offer larger lots of over 1-acre summer smaller of about 10,000 ft.. Retirees will love the communitys customizable and attractive floor plans that offer 1,588 to 1,883 square feet of living space. By signing up, I agree to 55places.com privacy policy and terms of use. Current Resident: I loved growing up in a small beach town. This active adult community is spread across 360 acres of beautiful landscape and will consist of 1,000 single-family homes upon completion. Custom Homes, Homesites, Maintenance Free, Single Family Homes . Learn more aboutDel Webb Charleston at Nexton here. There's also a long fishing pier for casting a line, and historic sights like the town's iconic lighthouse. Featured Review: Current Resident says Tryon is a small quaint town located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Read 15 reviews. This includes three major universities: Duke University, the University of North Carolina and North Carolina State University. The average age here (60) is relatively high, reflecting its popularity as a retirement spot. These homes feature open layouts, first-floor master suites, walk-in closets, and modern kitchens. 3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Ferry service to Fort Fisher provides a fun all-in-one outing to the Fort Fisher historic site, aquarium, and beach. Winston-Salem. #11 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina. The town itself is equally noteworthy, with every kind of amenity youll need and enough housing options to please all tastes and budgets. Recreational offerings include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, walking & biking trails, tennis & pickleball courts, fishing ponds, and weekly activities for all interests. Residents also have a rich lineup of resort-style amenities based around the 12,500 square-foot clubhouse, which is full of social spaces, recreational facilities, and activities. The town itself is a delight, with charming, Victorian-era homes sitting side by side with modern-day architectural gems. Mix in a surf vibe on the Atlantic, a boating and SUP-centric world on Banks Channel, miles of broad beaches and a deep bench of old-fashioned Carolina beach cottages for sale and rent, and you've got a sense of the magic that makes Wrightsville Beach all-out fun. Asheville Flickr / Clark Mackey It's obvious the city of the wonderful, weird, and downright eccentric belongs on this list. For inspiration, visit one of the many art galleries, or simply start up a conversation at the bar. Progressing through the new year, the housing market is seeing a positive trend as the economy regains its strength and begins bouncing back. This community features a variety of enviable amenities like a community center, outdoor pool and spa, shuffleboard and tennis courts, and winding walking and biking trails. It is a close-knit community, with community events all during the year. #1 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina Pine Knoll Shores Town in North Carolina A minus Overall Niche Grade A Public Schools A+ Good for Retirees Population 1,288 View nearby homes #2 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina St. James Town in North Carolina 3 reviews Current Resident: We moved here in October 2020 and love it! How Important Is the 55+ Age Restriction to You. The monthly rent starts at $2,545 and includes both independent living and ongoing care. 12 of 13 Kiawah Island, South Carolina Laurey W. Glenn Only electric carts and bicycles can travel the roads, making sure you catch everything while you're in paradise. That connection to waterfishing, pleasure boating, paddling, and sailing (Oriental is known as the sailing capital of North Carolina)defines the maritime charm of this village-like spot on the broad Neuse River as it opens into Pamlico Sound. Featured Review: Current Resident says Moved from Illinois, and love living in FFH. Lots start at $1.1 million and homes range from $1,875,000 to $2,875,000. Featured Review: Current Resident says I have lived in Southern Shores for 13 years and absolutely love it here. This 4,500-acre retreat features a wide features a wide array of neighborhoods, architecture, and price points. Amenities include three clubhouses, a private beach club, tennis, racquetball, swimming, fitness, a nature park, and a community garden. Hickory. New Orleans, Louisiana. Our community is filled with wonderful souls that will help others no matter the cost. Buyers can choose from three distinct design collections that range from 1,262 to 2,536 square feet. In addition to her fact checking background, she also has over six years experience of reporting, writing, and copy editing articles for digital magazines including Woman's Day and The Knot. Copyright 1996 - 2023. It's situated on a four-acre historic farm and only minutes from downtown Winston-Salem, so you have the best of both worlds.