Written by: Nathan Steele
Date:

Welcome to the enchanting state of North Carolina, where retirees find a haven to embark on their next chapter in life. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, mild climate, and wealth of cultural amenities, North Carolina is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and fulfilling retirement. In this article, Verified Movers will guide you through the best places to retire in North Carolina, exploring cities that offer everything from scenic mountain landscapes to coastal charms. Delve into the reasons why North Carolina is an attractive choice for retirees, and discover the unique features that each city has to offer.

Retirement Haven: Why is North Carolina a Perfect State for Retirees?

There is an array of factors that makes North Carolina an irresistible destination for retirees. The state’s diverse geography offers a range of climates, from the serene mountains to the picturesque coastline. Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find ample opportunities for recreation, whether it’s hiking the Appalachian Trail or lounging on sandy beaches. For culture seekers, North Carolina’s vibrant arts scene, historical sites, and museums provide endless stimulation.

A pier in North Carolina
North Carolina has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

On top of that, retirees can enjoy an affordable cost of living and benefit from tax-friendly policies that enhance their financial security during their golden years. For example, North Carolina’s cost of living is 9% lower than the nation’s average. If we take a look at the housing prices, we’ll see that the average home in NC costs $285,000, way less than the USA average of slightly over $350,000. Therefore, not only that this state is beautiful with a mild climate, but it’s also very easy to afford. So, no wonder why so many retirees across the nation are booking the services of cross country moving companies North Carolina in order to get a taste of the beautiful Tar Heel State.

Analyzing the Best Places to Retire in North Carolina

North Carolina is home to so many amazing cities that are perfect for people of all age groups. Each city has a unique charm, and picking the best ones is certainly not an easy decision. In the end, we’ve settled on 5 cities, and these are:

  • Wilmington
  • Asheville
  • Chapel Hill
  • Charlotte
  • Boone

Now that we named our top picks, it’s time to analyze them in more detail, so let’s have a look.

Coastal charm and relaxed living in Wilmington

For those drawn to coastal living, Wilmington’s charm is hard to resist. This historic city offers a mild climate and easy access to beautiful beaches, making it a paradise for retirees seeking a laid-back lifestyle. Cultural attractions, including museums and theaters, cater to the artistic spirit. Golf courses, fishing spots, and a plethora of recreational opportunities keep retirees active and engaged. With a variety of retirement communities and neighborhoods, Wilmington presents an idyllic retirement destination. Wilmington is also not expensive since its cost of living is only 1% higher than the state’s average. And, if you’re planning on buying a home once cross country moving companies Wilmington help you settle in here, know that the median home price in this city stands at $370,000.

A beach in Wilmington, one of the best places to retire in North Carolina
For many reasons, from lovely coast to low living costs, Wilmington is among the best places to retire in North Carolina

The tranquil beauty and cultural richness of Asheville

Nestled amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville enthralls retirees with its tranquil beauty and vibrant arts scene. The city has a thriving community of artists, musicians, and writers, creating an atmosphere that stimulates creativity and intellectual curiosity. Outdoor enthusiasts can revel in hiking, biking, and exploring beautiful mountain landscapes. Asheville’s world-class healthcare facilities and numerous retirement communities make it a sought-after destination for retirees looking for a blend of serenity and cultural richness.

One of the rare downsides of moving here with cross country moving companies Asheville is the cost of living. Daily expenses in Asheville are 5% higher than the nation’s average and, therefore, significantly higher than the NC average. We still think that this city is very much worth moving to, but be prepared for slightly higher prices.

Strong sense of community in Chapel Hill

Home to the prestigious University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, this city offers a vibrant intellectual and cultural scene. Retirees in Chapel Hill can enjoy a stimulating community with access to lectures, art exhibits, and concerts. The city’s healthcare options are among the best in the state, ensuring top-notch medical care for residents. That comes at a certain price, though, because the cost of living here beats the North Carolina average by 7%. Housing is especially expensive in Chapel Hill since the median home price recently exceeded $400,000. However, such opportunities that Chapel Hill is offering, especially top-notch healthcare, are hard to ignore. Serene outdoor spaces, such as parks and gardens, provide the perfect setting for leisurely strolls. Chapel Hill’s retirement-friendly neighborhoods and active adult communities make it an ideal choice for those who crave an intellectually stimulating retirement.

The appeal of Charlotte: Urban sophistication and quality of life

As North Carolina’s largest city, Charlotte is a hub of urban sophistication and economic growth. Retirees seeking a blend of city living and tranquility will find Charlotte to be a perfect fit. The city’s vibrant arts scene, diverse entertainment options, and abundance of dining establishments cater to retirees with varied interests. Excellent healthcare facilities ensure access to top medical care. Retirees can choose from a wide range of retirement communities and neighborhoods, each offering a unique blend of city convenience and quality of life.

Buildings in Charlotte
Charlotte offers a perfect mix of urban and peaceful living.

It’s worth saying that people from all over our country are calling cross country moving companies Charlotte and are flocking to this city. Due to its low living costs for a city of that size and that many opportunities (2% lower than the USA average), Charlotte has become one of the nation’s most moved-in cities. Even though it can sometimes get noisy, Charlotte remains one of the best places to retire in North Carolina.

Boone: Serenity in the Mountains

Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Boone offers retirees a serene and picturesque setting. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in hiking, skiing, and exploring the natural wonders of the Blue Ridge. The city’s cost of living is reasonable, around the United States average. That makes it an attractive option for retirees seeking financial stability. Even though it’s a town rather than a city, there are simply so many fun ways to explore Boone, and we’re sure you’ll love exploring it. Also, know that, with several retirement-friendly neighborhoods and active adult communities, Boone provides a peaceful escape for those seeking mountain tranquility.

It’s Impossible to Make a Wrong Choice

As you were able to see, North Carolina is a state that offers retirees an unparalleled combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and affordability. Whether you prefer the serenity of mountain landscapes or the coastal charms of the Atlantic, North Carolina’s diverse cities provide something for everyone. With that in mind, explore the best places to retire in North Carolina based on your preferences and lifestyle, and embark on a retirement journey that fulfills all your dreams and desires. North Carolina awaits with open arms to offer you the retirement you’ve always imagined.