A cult favorite, this Outer Banks island is accessible only by boat or ferry from Hatteras and Cedar islands and has a relaxed romance imbued with salt air. For each entry, weve also provided a list of recommended 55+ communities in the area. Smithfield Overall SnackAbility 3 /10 Population: 11,168 Rank Last Year: 1 (No Change) Median Rent: $571 Distance to Closest Airport: 34 miles More on Smithfield: Real Estate | Data | Photos Source: Public domain 2. In short, its everything youd want a beach town to be. 2533 Hendersonville Road. Asheville is famous for free-thinking residents and plenty of artists and creators. Flat Rock also has many different parks with walking and hiking trails. Read 8 reviews. 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. THE SHOOK HOME - Chambersburg, PA CCRC . 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. Featured Review: Parent says Having been at the school since its inception and assisting in many ways from start-up fundraising, marketing, assisting in the classroom and coaching, I can tell you that the Scholars Academy is a. Senior: GDS is an extremally nice and well rounded school. 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Named one of the "top 50 Best Master-Planned Communities" in the United States by Where to Retire magazine. This active adult community is just 30 minutes west of Myrtle Beach, which allows residents to enjoy everything this coastal environment has to offer. Plenty of restaurants to go to over the weekend and nature life is great. 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. There are beautiful dunes with wildlife. 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. Southport has three museums, but the town itself is a vintage postcard sent from a halcyon past. Pensacola, Florida. Easy to get around (no major highways running through) with easy commutes, great school public school system, excellent larger cities. Current Resident: Sunset Beach is beautiful. This barrier island town has amenities to please the entire family, like a town park with splash pad, skatepark, and mini-golf, and the nearby aquarium in Pine Knoll Shores. We can help you find preferred destination. It really feels like you have the opportunity to get to know every teacher and student personally. Featured Review: Current Resident says Tryon is a small quaint town located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Plenty of restaurants. #17 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina. Here you'll find quality homes and a relaxed lifestyle with a wide variety of amenities and activities to chose from. 1 Niche users give it an average review of 1 stars. Ideally situated in Conway, SC, Myrtle Trace provides residents with a low-maintenance lifestyle and a well-appointed clubhouse thats full of indoor and outdoor amenities. North Carolina presents residents with stunning options for various lifestyles. 6. The top three golf destinations in the state are Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island and Bluffton-all of which feature many world-class South Carolina golf communities-Sea Pines Resort, Colleton River, Palmetto Bluff and Palmetto Dunes to name just a few. Housing is reasonable. Current Resident: We moved here in October 2020 and love it! Chief among its attractions are its beach towns. Founded in 1996, Private Communities Registry, LLC (PCR) is the trusted online resource for real estate shoppers interested in amenity-rich, master-planned lifestyle communities. Driving on the beach is allowed here (with a permit), and there is plenty of public water access and parks. Normal July high temperature: 67 degrees. #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! New Orleans, Louisiana. Although there are no lifeguards so beware. Read 6 reviews. Read more on how this ranking was calculated. Searching for Active Retirement on Retirenet.com is simple and easy. For inspiration, visit one of the many art galleries, or simply start up a conversation at the bar. Featured Review: Current Resident says Sunset Beach is beautiful. With low property taxes, low home prices, and a delectably high standard of living, this beachy paradise offers a little something for everyone. Now is a great time to learn first hand why southeastern North . The beach is one of the best in the area, with soft sand, surf-ready waves, and a smorgasbord of activities to enjoy. Named a Top 100 Best Courses in Myrtle Beach 2004-2009, in North Carolina, 2006, by . Did I mention, compared to most parts of the country, insurance and tax rates are affordable. Bella Vista Retirement is set against the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains communities of North Carolina. Receive unbiased assessments of neighborhoods, communities . North Myrtle Beach High School is located in Little River so it's right next door, which makes the commute really easy. Little inclines in roads, all well maintained. Real Estate Ad:3477091. For entertainment, the huge, one-mile boardwalk is the perfect place for romantic sunset walks. Ocean Ridge Plantation Presented by ASAP Realty. 5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars. 10. 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. Portland, Maine If you're interested in retiring near the ocean without the humidity of a tropical destination, consider Portland. #1 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina. The first stop on the Outer Banks for many, Nags Head has beautiful beaches with free parking, an iconic fishing pier with a conservation focus, and a funky arts and culture scene. Have everything you need around the block. 2007 2023 55places.com, a division ofNeighborhoods.com. The schools are great with educated teachers, and are very sport oriented. Login, Email Address Sometimes this can work out well, but in other cases it can be more hassle than its worth. #21 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina. This established age-restricted community offers homebuyers affordable resale homes starting in the low $100s. Neighbors are very friendly but mind their own. #19 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina. There are some positive signs happening through February and a few trends that 55+ homebuyers can look forward to as we progress through the next 30 days. Little traffic and slow speeds make dog walking, cycling etc a pleasure. If you prefer a bigger city, Raleigh is one of the best towns in North Carolina. Lots are priced from $189,000 to $200,000; Patio Homes, Custom and Resale Homes from the $500,000 to $990,000. The downtown is lively, home to numerous attractions (including the very visit-worth North Carolina Maritime Museum), and blessed with enough entertainment and amenities to keep everyone happy. Retirees can find a wide selection of active adult communities along the coasts of North Carolinaand South Carolinathat offer beautiful beachside living along with a vibrant and social atmosphere, world-class amenities, and reasonably priced homes. If warm waters and golden sands tick your box, youre going to love Carolina Beach. Duck has devoted extensive energy and funds to the nourishment of its beaches (named among the Best Restored Beaches for 2018), but it's important to note that access is for residents and vacation property renters only. She also enjoys creative writing, content writing on nearly any topic (particularly business and lifestyle), because as a lifelong learner, she loves to do research and possess a high skill level in this area. Welcome Go to My Account . The community will be surrounded by 2,000 acres of open green space and miles of walking and biking trails for a truly unique experience. Thanks to very reasonable property prices, low crime rates, and some very decent amenities, its also an unquestionably amazing place to live. Homes priced from $200,000 to $2 million; Lots from $50,000 to $500,000; Condos from $150,000 to $600,000. Bermuda Run. PER CAPITA INCOME FOR POPULATION: $38,494. The State offers plenty of outdoor activities, hundreds of best places to retire - from livable cities to quaint harbor towns like Beaufort , and . The community is friendly, close-knit, and just as welcoming as you could wish for. Raleigh and Durham. By signing up, I agree to 55places.com privacy policy and terms of use. There are tons of coastal spots in places such as Delaware, Virginia, the Carolinas, Washington, Oregon and even Michigan where beach life is inexpensive. 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. Amenities include three clubhouses, a private beach club, tennis, racquetball, swimming, fitness, a nature park, and a community garden. Learn more aboutDel Webb at Cane Bay here. All retirement options are available including golf course living, new home . Learn more aboutCresswind Myrtle Beach here. Ideally situated in Coastal North Carolina and just ten miles from Oak Island beaches, Avalon is a new active lifestyle community being built by D.R. 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. Everyone there is. Current Resident: Excellent small town with beautiful weather most of the year. This is an escape complete with pirate lore; long stretches of pristine sands all protected by the National Park Service; a fishing village with summer pleasures like ice cream, seafood, and boat charters; and its own bright white, picturesque lighthouse. This includes three major universities: Duke University, the University of North Carolina and North Carolina State University. Not to be confused with the South Carolina town of the same name (and pronounced differently), this small and charming harbor town at the southern end of the Outer Banks has a lively downtown marina, is dotted with historic buildings dating back to the 1700s, is home to a wonderful North Carolina Maritime Museum, and is a stone's throw from the natural riches of the Rachel Carson Reservelook for wild horses and dolphins across the water while you stroll on boardwalks downtown. 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. I agree that 55places and its affiliates, partner providers or agents may call, text, or email me about my inquiry, which may be made with automated means. Calabash-style seafood is lightly breaded right off the boat, and there are plenty of restaurants featuring the local fare. Plus, there's almost seven rooms per house on average, so you'll have lots of space. Looking for the best places to live in coastal North Carolina? North Carolina is one of the top states for retirement and active adult retirement communities. Horton. Here are the South's Best Beach Towns. While a two-week break in the Bahamas might leave a hole in your, Read More The 20 Cheapest Places to Live in the CaribbeanContinue. In addition to affordable homes and an attractive setting, residents also have a spacious clubhouse filled with top-notch amenities and fun activities and events. The cost of living is average. Read 18 reviews. Lots start at $1.1 million and homes range from $1,875,000 to $2,875,000. Explore the best places to retire in the U.S. based on number of retirees, weather, and access to healthcare and entertainment. Home Blog Community Resources Most Affordable Beach Communities in North and South Carolina. You could meet people from all over the country when they came to visit the beach. With history running through its veins (including pre-Civil War Fort Macon), the oldest town on Bogue Bankswith its back to Bogue Sound and facing the Atlantic Ocean to the southis also home to the nostalgic (and 1,000-foot-long) Oceanana Fishing Pier, plus a steady swell for surfing. Learn how your comment data is processed. The Retreat Ocean Aisle Beach is a coastal real estate community ideal for retirement and is a great place for families of all ages. Discover the schools, companies, and neighborhoods that are right for you. The long nights with my coworkers were ones I'll never forget. Our community is filled with wonderful souls that will help others no matter the cost.. Current Resident: It is a wonderful community. I may revoke my consent at any time by contacting [emailprotected] Message/data rates may apply. These affordable homes are priced in the low $200sand have two or three bedrooms, two or three bathrooms, and attached two-car garages. Buyers will find new and resale homes priced from the high $100s that come as attached or single-family homes. Welcome to North Carolina, where woods, water and outdoor recreation come together to create the ultimate lifestyle. When selling your home, its tempting to forego the cost of a real estate agents commission and take the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) route. Unlike most beaches it is a south facing beach. This 4,500-acre retreat features a wide features a wide array of neighborhoods, architecture, and price points. Lots start at $20,000; Homes priced from $400,000. #24 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina. Whether you stay a week, a year, or an entire lifetime, youre unlikely to regret your decision. This riverfront port is technically a city, but there are so many things to love about visiting and enjoying Wilmington, it's impossible to leave it off the list. I worked at a local ice cream shop, and we were slammed all summer long. The cost of living is well within reach, the schools are more than respectable, and the housing options will suit a wide range of tastes and budgets. 11 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars. Bright white cottages with red roofs, stately sea captains' homes, two lighthouses, local shops, and water in seemingly every direction (what with the confluence of the river and the Intracoastal Waterway) create vistas at every bend in the road. Little inclines in roads, all well maintained. Residents will also enjoy top-notch amenities at the proposed clubhouse, such as a fitness center, multi-purpose room, outdoor pool and patio, and walking and biking trails. If you are looking for a place to retire with lots of amenities, friendly neighbors, numerous social activities, but not intrusivelook no further. 18 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars. Read More Overlooking the historic Albemarle Sound along North Carolinas Inner Banks, Occano is a resort-style community home to an Arnold Palmer Signature golf course and offers endless outdoor activities like golfing, boating, fishing, or simply taking in a stunning sunset. Read More North Carolina's newest coastal gem with direct ocean access and amazing ocean views. Beautiful walks whichever way you go and. Current Resident: Cedar Point is a beautiful place to live and very family friendly, but we need more healthy food options. Cost-of . This quirky town on the Mississippi coast is a haven for creatives and an oasis for anyone looking for a quiet vacation. Compare floor plans, amenities, and photos to find your best senior living experience. Trinity View Retirement Community. #6 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina. It has picturesque views, rolling hills and a sense of community that bounds its citizens together with the feelings of being cared for. The peaceful vibe is perfectly complemented by quiet streets lined with majestic trees and even more majestic homes. Just south of Beaufort, this quiet fishing community known for retaining the Down East dialect has also become a popular spot for retirees. Quiet, calm, and as peaceful as a summer breeze, its the perfect place to experience the simple pleasures in life. With two fishing piers, a miniature golf course, and a clutch of ice cream parlors to its name, its a paradise for nostalgia lovers. 1.. 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. It is also very safe and has lots of outdoor and water activity options. There's also a long fishing pier for casting a line, and historic sights like the town's iconic lighthouse. 4. Learn more aboutDel Webb Wilmington here. Sun City Huntley, located in Huntley, IL, is an active retirement community spanning 2,200 acres. 1. Homes are pristine, yards immaculate, everyone watches out for others, and just a great place to live. Read 3 reviews. To start the food at GDS is not what it once was, while it is still superior to that of the public schools in the area the cost to quality and meal size ratio is unsettling. A minus. #18 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina. CITY POPULATION: 474,069. Retirees can find a wide selection of active adult communities along the coasts of North Carolina and South Carolina that offer beautiful beachside living along with a vibrant and social atmosphere, world-class amenities, and reasonably priced homes. This family-friendly island near Wilmington has 10 miles of south-facing beaches, not to mention a fishing pier and nostalgic pleasures that include ice cream and miniature golf. If you are looking for a place to retire with lots of amenities, friendly neighbors, numerous social activities, but not intrusivelook no further. Sun City Huntley. Small, but everyone is super friendly and it is easy to know people from the area. Featured Review: Junior says Charlotte secondary is a very small school, but that's what makes it so great! The builder offers buyers nine distinct floor plans that are priced starting in the low $200s and include impressive features and customizable options such as gourmet kitchens, hardwood flooring, granite countertops, covered lanais, spacious master suites, oversized custom-tiled showers, and raised vanities. 1. The schools are very good but there are very few job opportunities other than doctor, nurse, lawyer, teacher and real estate. Black Mountain. There are plenty of benefits to living exclusively among your generational peers, and also perhaps a few challenges. and retirement communities with golf. This gated active adult community is located within the award-winning master-planned development of Nexton and will offer retirees beautiful home designs and world-class amenities within an attractive setting.