Nestled in the southeastern region of the United States, North Carolina emerges as a compelling destination for retirees seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. Boasting a diverse landscape that encompasses the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, picturesque coastal plains, and vibrant urban centers, the Tar Heel State offers something for everyone.

With its mild climate, thriving arts scene, and renowned healthcare facilities, North Carolina provides retirees with ample opportunities for outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and a relaxed pace of life. Whether you're drawn to the quaint charm of small towns like Asheville and Chapel Hill or the bustling energy of cities like Charlotte and Raleigh, North Carolina promises retirees a welcoming and enriching environment to enjoy their golden years.

Is North Carolina a good place to live for retirees?

With mild weather and plenty of scenic destinations, North Carolina has become a popular place for relocating retirees. From beaches to mountains to big-city living, the state has a little bit of everything. But because of the higher cost of living, for those who choose to move to North Carolina, often it’s more for “quality of life” reasons than saving money.

Is North Carolina tax-friendly for seniors?

North Carolina has some tax-friendly policies for seniors. Social Security income is not taxed at the state level, however, withdrawals and payments from private retirement accounts like pensions and 401(k)s are fully taxed. So while you’ll save a bit on state taxes if you retire in North Carolina, it’s not the most tax-friendly state for retirees.

Do seniors in North Carolina pay property taxes over 65?

If you’re over 65 years old, you may qualify for some property tax relief. The current income limit for this program is just under $34,000. The program will exclude $25,000 or 50% of the appraised value of your home, whichever is greater, from taxation if you qualify.

What benefits do seniors get in North Carolina?

North Carolina has multiple Aging and Adult Services, including access to senior centers, congregate and home delivered meals, legal assistance, home improvement, and heat relief from the state’s hot summers.

Where is the best place to retire in North Carolina?

Here are 10 top places to look at if you’re considering a post-retirement move to North Carolina.

Asheville

CITY POPULATION: 94,589

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 21.8%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 8.2% above the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $459,606

MEDIAN RENT: $2,100/month

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Moderately Tax Friendly

If you love the great outdoors, Asheville is one of the best places to live in the North Carolina mountains. The city is home to Biltmore, America’s largest home, which attracts tourists from all over. For that reason, you’ll have no shortage of dining and shopping options to add to all the outdoor recreation that comes with any mountain town. Cost of living and housing costs are above average, making Asheville a better choice for affluent retirees.

New Bern

CITY POPULATION: 31,291

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 23.4%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 5.8% above the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $261,380

MEDIAN RENT: $1,601

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Moderately Tax Friendly

New Bern is one of North Carolina’s many coastal communities. For seniors, riverfront living combines with master-planned golf communities and close proximity to beaches for a great living experience. Retail shopping, restaurants, and plenty of cultural attractions will ensure you never run out of things to do. It’s also relatively affordable compared to other North Carolina, especially considering its coastal status.

Raleigh

CITY POPULATION: 467,665

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 12.3%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 7.9% above the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $429,266

MEDIAN RENT: $1,797

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Moderately Tax Friendly

If you prefer a bigger city, Raleigh is one of the best towns in North Carolina. You’ll get access to top-notch healthcare, numerous golf courses, and plenty of restaurants and retail. If you’re an active adult, you’ll love the more than 8,000 acres of parks, tennis courts, and aquatic centers. You’ll pay for city living, of course, with higher than average cost of living and home values.

Charlotte

CITY POPULATION: 874,579

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 11.1%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 3.5% above the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $386,482

MEDIAN RENT: $1,900

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Moderately Tax Friendly

When it comes to size, Raleigh has nothing on North Carolina’s largest city, Charlotte. Charlotte is one of the best places to live in North Carolina for a few reasons. The thriving healthcare sector will give you access to all the medical resources you might need. You’ll also find some of the best retirement communities in North Carolina. You’ll get all the benefits of a big city, with museums, science centers, and more great activities to take the grandkids to.

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Beaufort County

COUNTY POPULATION: 44,652

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 24.4%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 7.2% above the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $221,316

MEDIAN RENT: $925

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Moderately Tax Friendly

North Carolina’s Beaufort County is another one of the best areas to live in the state. The county is made up of multiple small towns, each making a great retirement option for those looking for a quieter way of life. Washington is a coastal small town, while nearby cities like Chocowinity and Aurora bring museums, history, and plenty of culture. It’s also relatively affordable compared to other coastal areas in the U.S.

Hendersonville

CITY POPULATION: 15,137

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 30.8%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 7.7% above the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $396,022

MEDIAN RENT: $1,875

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Moderately Tax Friendly

Next door to Asheville is this charming town, which has rows of historic homes. The downtown area features plenty of shopping, including antiques, boutiques, and restaurants. A nearby airport helps it top any traveler’s list of best towns to retire in North Carolina.

Eden

CITY POPULATION: 15,421

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 17.3%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 6.3% below the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $134,104

MEDIAN RENT: $975

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Moderately Tax Friendly

You’ll get a little bit of everything in this community, from golf courses to an award-winning hospital. An active senior center provides plenty of activities for retirees, and the river is great for outdoor sports like fishing. And with some of the lowest cost of living and housing prices in the state, Eden can be a great option for those looking to stretch their retirement dollars.

Pinehurst Village

CITY POPULATION: 17,581 SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 40.2% COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 1.8% below the national average MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $485,847 MEDIAN RENT: $2,300 TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Moderately Tax Friendly

Pinehurst Village is in an area known as the Sandhills, a region beloved for its sandy soil and pine trees. The city is ideal for golfers, with more than 45 courses scattered around the area. You’ll also get plenty of hiking trails, as well as access to multiple health facilities. Housing costs are high, but cost of living is slightly below average, which might help even out costs in retirement.

Kinston

CITY POPULATION: 19,900

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 24.9%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 3.7% above the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $133,842

MEDIAN RENT: $1,200

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Moderately Tax Friendly

If suburban life is more your style, check out this riverside community located in the Atlantic coastal plain region. The historic district takes you back in time, with historical buildings housing restaurants, shops, and art galleries. Housing is affordable relative to other communities in North Carolina, though your dollar won’t go as far with the slightly above average cost of living.

Kill Devil Hills

CITY POPULATION: 7,656

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 18.1%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 8.2% above the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $489,888

MEDIAN RENT: $2,500

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Moderately Tax Friendly

The name may sound ominous, but Kill Devil Hills is actually part of the desirable Outer Banks area of North Carolina, one of the best places to retire in North Carolina. This town is perhaps best known for housing the Wright Brothers National Memorial, but you’ll also find plenty of shopping and dining options. Best of all, the town has an active 55-plus center.

Bottom Line

North Carolina is a great state for those who prefer a warmer climate that also sees all four seasons. Being so close to beaches and mountains means you’ll have plenty of opportunities for weekend getaways no matter where you decide to settle.

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