Top 10 Retirement Destinations in North Carolina

From mountain towns to beach cities, these are the best places to retire in North Carolina.

The state of North Carolina boasts beaches, the Blue Ridge, and year-round moderate weather. Historic cities, farming communities, and coastal areas provide a range of lifestyles and beautiful places to live, offering something for every retiree. Notably, there is no state tax on Social Security benefits, and state income tax is modest at about 5.25 percent.

To identify the best retirement spots in North Carolina, we considered ratings from Niche.com, which factors in data about housing access, cost of living, crime, weather, outdoor activities, and more to rate cities with a letter grade.

01. Duck

If you love the beach, an easy-going lifestyle, and a small-town atmosphere, the Outer Banks city of Duck might be an ideal place to retire. There’s a one-mile boardwalk for morning strolls, shopping, and dining, plus free guided walks to learn about the island’s flora and fauna. Local events include a jazz festival, Independence Day parade, winter holiday celebration, summer concerts, and outdoor fitness classes.

Duck scores high on safety and nightlife metrics from Niche.com, and according to Redfin.com, the overall cost of living in Duck is about five percent lower than the national average.

02. Belmont

For retirees who enjoy history, outdoor activities, and the advantages of being near a larger city, Belmont is an attractive retirement destination. Located about 12 miles west of Charlotte, Belmont is a growing city. Its Downtown Belmont Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its fine vintage architecture, while two colleges bring a youthful element to the city.

According to data from Salary.com and BestPlaces.net, the cost of living in Belmont is slightly less than the national average, and Belmont received an overall rating of A from Niche.com.

03. Pinehurst

If you plan to hit the links in retirement, Pinehurst might be the right destination for you. Known for its golf courses and pleasant small-town vibe, Pinehurst is centrally located near various attractions. The Village of Pinehurst offers a variety of programs for adults as well.

Named by SmartAsset.com, for its healthcare access and notable retiree population, Pinehurst received an overall rating of A from Niche.com.

04. Carolina Beach

A suburb of Wilmington, Carolina Beach will delight retirees who enjoy its vintage feel, lively nightlife, and world-class fishing. Its classic boardwalk features shops, restaurants, and entertainment with ocean breezes. Music festivals and events make summer especially exciting in the Carolina Beach area.

Niche.com gives Carolina Beach an overall A- rating, with high marks for health and fitness, nightlife, and outdoor activities. The median home price in Carolina Beach is estimated at $695,000 according to Realtor.com.

05. Laurinburg

Laurinburg is located in south-central North Carolina with convenient access to major cities. Outdoor activities abound, with the nearby Lumber River offering opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and fishing. The city is one of the more affordable retirement destinations on this list, with the median home price at $159,000 according to Realtor.com. Niche.com gives Laurinburg an overall B- rating.

06. Marion

Retirees seeking outdoor activities, a lively downtown, and mountain views might consider Marion, located about 36 miles northeast of Asheville. Residents enjoy Marion’s restaurants, art galleries, and festivals along with nearby state and national parks that offer hiking and biking activities. Marion is a Certified Retirement Community according to Retire NC, meeting criteria for amenities that promote an active lifestyle.

According to Realtor.com, the median home price is $275,000.

07. Reidsville

Located near Greensboro, Reidsville is an affordable community combining a small-town feel with nearby big-city amenities. Two public lakes, parks, and walking trails make Reidsville an attractive retirement destination. Reidsville is a Certified Retirement Community, offering a variety of activities including trips, bowling, bocce ball, and dancing.

According to Realtor.com, the median home price is $205,000.

08. New Bern

Once the capital of North Carolina, New Bern is the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola and offers a blend of history and modern living. This 300-year-old city, set on the Neuse River, is located about 30 miles from the Atlantic Coast. Historic homes and downtown condos provide a range of housing options. Activities like boating, hiking, and golf are among outdoor offerings, alongside cultural opportunities at local theaters and galleries.

New Bern received an overall grade of B+ from Niche.com, and Realtor.com estimates the median home price at $330,000. New Bern is also recognized as a Certified Retirement Community.

09. Winterville

Located south of Greenville, Winterville is a small but growing family-oriented community with unique local flavor. Strawberry picking, the annual Watermelon Festival, and eateries serving fresh seafood are some of the town’s attractions. Winterville is listed among North Carolina’s safest cities.

Niche.com awarded Winterville an overall A grade, reflecting its community spirit and local amenities. According to Realtor.com, the median home price is $315,000.

10. Cary

This community is located in the “Research Triangle” of North Carolina, near Raleigh and Durham. Residents can look forward to many cultural events and festivals. Cary has received recognition as one of the best places to live in North Carolina, with an A+ rating.

Furthermore, Cary boasts substantial safety and quality of life metrics. The median home price is $575,000, as reported by Realtor.com.