10 Towns in North Carolina that Are Ideal for Seniors
Finding a place to settle down when one retires can be a challenge. With various factors to consider such as housing, safety, entertainment, and healthcare, however, numerous places cater well to the needs of seniors. Fortunately, the beautiful state of North Carolina is home to many amazing small towns that are perfect for retirees. These towns take advantage of the state's natural beauty, with access to natural attractions like the Great Smoky Mountains and the Atlantic Coast. They also offer a glimpse into North Carolina's vibrant culture and rich aviation history, offering educational and recreational opportunities for retirees. The best part is that these towns are away from urban crowds, providing a relaxing retreat to enjoy one's golden years.
Duck
If you are looking to retire in a coastal town, Duck is a scenic option in the Outer Banks. Admired by seniors and tourists alike for its beauty and tranquility, Duck provides a picturesque setting by the Atlantic’s glistening waters. There are a range of activities suitable for all energy levels. For a gentle start to the day, enjoy a walk along the waters in the morning. Those seeking adventure can enjoy activities like river rafting or tubing, while others might prefer leisurely strolls along the beach. As the sun sets, the NC Coast Grill & Bar offers a delicious meal accompanied by a beautiful view. With plenty of eateries, festivals, and shopping options on the Duck Town Boardwalk, each day presents a new way to enjoy the coast.
Beyond the activities, various aspects make Duck an ideal destination for seniors. The town is well-planned, featuring peaceful, clear residential areas suitable for retirees. Housing is reasonably priced, with a median rent of $1,150, slightly higher than the state average of $1,100. Given that most residences boast views of the coast, this price is reasonable for the beauty on offer. Moreover, Duck enjoys a moderate climate year-round, with temperatures rarely crossing 88°F in summer and 33.5°F in winter, complemented by seasonal variations that are comfortable for seniors. While the town may lack some services, the proximity to Norfolk, just 1.5 hours away, ensures that residents have easy access to larger city amenities.
Hickory
Hickory is a bustling town in Catawba County that combines the charm of a small town with the vibrancy of urban life. Home to 44,000 residents, the town buzzes with life, offering new conversations around every corner. Retirees have no trouble making friends here, making every activity in the town a blast. Union Square is a tapestry of streets lined with stunning architecture, bustling entertainment venues, and lively cafes. Whether you want to grab a drink at the Olde Hickory Tap Room or buy fresh veggies from the farmers market, the options are endless. Speaking of options, Hickory is full of heritage, with plenty of ways to experience it. Most seniors are drawn to cultural attractions such as the Hickory Museum of Art and the Hickory History Center. Exploring stunning local artwork and learning about the town’s artisan furniture past, these spots are vibrant and engaging.
From a retirement perspective, Hickory has various advantages that make it perfect for seniors. Transportation is one of these advantages, as the town boasts an efficient public transport system under Greenway Public Transportation. With six fixed bus routes between cities, senior residents can travel with ease. Moreover, the Appalachian Mountains are just 30 minutes away, putting majestic peaks within easy reach. Tons of hiking routes, rivers, and sightseeing areas make it a perfect place for outdoor activity. While this should keep you healthy, the Catawba Valley Medical Center, with its state-of-the-art facilities, ensures excellent medical care.
Beaufort
Beaufort is more than just a town; it's a haven of coastal charm and exuberance. Home to less than 5,000 people, the town was ranked as “America’s Coolest Small Town” for its immaculate aura. Retirees in Beaufort particularly enjoy the town's cultural attractions, such as the Beaufort Historic District, the North Carolina Maritime Museum, and the Beaufort Visitor Center. These sights showcase the town's 200-year sailing history and offer informative bus tours about this rich heritage. In the present day, Beaufort frequently hosts events such as The Beaufort Music Festival and Beaufort Wine and Food Weekend. Featuring good food, live music, and lovely wine, these events are sure to add a spark to your retired life. Even when no events are happening, the Atlantic coastline offers a multitude of tranquil activities like boating, fishing, and swimming in pristine waters – few places can match the allure of Beaufort.
Apart from the activities, Beaufort is a quaint place where retirees can spend their golden years in peace. With no major cities within 100 miles, the town's primary visitors are tourists, adding to its serene atmosphere. Combined with waterside views, Beaufort is a dream retreat from the urban hustle and bustle. However, this does mean that some services are harder to reach. For instance, the nearest major hospital is in the neighboring town, and the closest international airport is in Wilmington. Thus, Beaufort is ideal for seniors seeking a serene escape from city life.
Brevard
Brevard is a small town in western North Carolina, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Seemingly out of a fantasy novel, it is an ideal destination for seniors who want to escape the trappings of urban cities. From any direction out of town, one finds themselves amidst a haven of the outdoors, offering tons of opportunities. Follow the sound of rushing water west to reach Looking Glass Falls, one of the state’s most beloved sights. Watching the 60-foot cascade of water provides a serene opportunity to de-stress and relax in one’s golden years. A short distance further along the trail lies Sliding Rock, another famous waterfall with its own plunge pool. Here, visitors can enjoy watching the water gently slide over the rocks through thick foliage and jagged rocks. While these activities cater to a range of interests, adventurous seniors might also enjoy heading east to the DuPont State Forest for hiking, biking, swimming, or kayaking.
Back in town, Brevard is a treat for those who want a relaxing life, especially for seniors. This may be attributed to the fact that more than 30% of the town’s 7,800 residents are above the age of 65. Brevard provides a great social environment, ensuring you never feel alone. Places like the Oskar Blues Brewery and Brevard Brewing Company are always bustling with great drinks and lively conversations. Additionally, amenities are plentiful in Brevard, with sites like the Transylvania Farmers Market and Whistlestop Market making it easy to find fresh goods.
Although the town has a high median housing cost of $310,700, which is 32% more than the state average, there are multiple housing alternatives. Retirement homes like College Walk Senior Living Community and The Oaks offer excellent options for independent and assisted living, with services ranging from medication management to full-service dining, making these communities well-suited for seniors.
Belmont
Similar to Brevard, Belmont is another laid-back small town in North Carolina. Located a few miles west of Charlotte, it offers a mix of urban and rural vibes. Seniors who want peace and quiet while remaining connected to modern amenities find this town appealing. Belmont is within 30 minutes of various medical establishments, such as Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center, CaroMont Imaging Services, and CaroMont Regional Medical Center, all providing professional medical staff and advanced equipment to ensure residents' health and safety.
Belmont offers excellent transportation options. The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) operates buses, numerous major highways provide road connectivity, and the Charlotte/Douglas International Airport is nearby for air travel. Whether planning a trip or inviting family over, Belmont is easily accessible. The only drawback is the town's costliness, with an average income of about $53,000 a year. However, for those who can afford it, the range of amenities justifies the cost.
After settling in Belmont, seniors find various avenues of entertainment. Belmont’s parks, such as Stowe Park, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, and Goat Island Park, are ideal for spending the day. They boast picnic spots, live music venues, and walking trails amidst acres of lush flora, providing a relaxing environment. In addition, Belmont is a cultural hub with a historic district many adore. Over 250 contributing buildings, including the 1907 Belmont Hotel, 1925 Bank of Belmont, and 1910 James Stowe House, offer a glimpse into the town's past. Thanks to this rich history, there is always a new tour or exhibit to explore. The town also retains a youthful charm, housing Belmont Abbey College and Gaston College.
Aberdeen
This charming town in Moore County is a cultural hub, offering a relaxing pace of life. Wandering through Aberdeen, one immediately notices the leisurely pace of life, complemented by an abundance of relaxing activities. Many townspeople enjoy spending their days immersed in history within the Aberdeen Historic District. Adorned with dozens of historic sites showcasing iconic Queen Anne and Classic Revival architecture, it harks back to America in the 1900s. When not exploring history, seniors are often found enjoying Aberdeen’s outdoor areas like Legacy Golf Links, where one can play golf amidst the beautiful Sandhills, or delving into nature at the Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve, where tall trees and calm creeks create a tranquil atmosphere.
With approximately 18% of its 6,300 residents above the age of 65, Aberdeen fosters a vibrant senior community. This makes everything in town much more comfortable, as there are like-minded people to share experiences with. Among the town’s housing options is the highly-rated Providence Place Senior, a senior living community offering independent living in a well-connected area for easy accessibility. Additionally, the town’s low poverty rate of 8% contributes to a secure and confident environment for seniors.
Roanoke Rapids
Roanoke Rapids, with its sparse suburban feel and tight-knit community, is complemented by stunning natural landscapes. Living here is a breath of fresh air, with tons of activities to keep residents busy. As its central feature, the Roanoke River is a hub of both natural beauty and historical significance. Seniors have a variety of activities to enjoy in this beautiful setting, including rafting, camping, hiking, and fishing. Back in town, the 15,750 locals are always out and about enjoying the town’s attractions. This includes catching shows at the historic Roanoke Rapids Theater, touring the Roanoke Canal Museum, or golfing at the Chockoyotte Country Club. Even when night falls, eateries like The Great American Grill and Ralph’s Barbeque are buzzing with seniors enjoying lively conversations.
The best part about living in Roanoke Rapids is its affordability. The median housing value is $126,000, far below the state average of $235,000. This makes it possible for retirees to buy their dream home without straining their finances. Hosting family for vacations is delightful, with ample opportunities for entertainment and relaxation. Despite its distance from urban centers, Roanoke Rapids offers essential services like healthcare, auto repair, and educational facilities.
Holly Springs
With the allure of an urban metropolis within its small-town charm, Holly Springs is a gem for retirees. Home to more than 41,000 residents, the town bustles with life, evident in its array of entertaining activities. Culturally inclined seniors will enjoy the Holly Springs Cultural Center, where theater, dance, and music are plentiful. Whether you want to appreciate local art or learn how to paint, this place has much to offer. The Holly Springs Community Library, located in the same building, offers seniors a peaceful haven for reading and relaxation. At Bass Lake Park, visitors can enjoy walking trails and picnic pavilions, complemented by the soothing sounds of flowing water and rustling leaves. To cap off a day, seniors might enjoy visiting Bombshell Beer Company for some food and drinks.
One consideration in Holly Springs is the relatively small senior population, with only 8% over the age of 65. However, with several major cities nearby, seniors have ample opportunities to socialize and make friends. The town's proximity to Raleigh is a key attraction, bringing top-rated facilities like the WakeMed Raleigh Campus within driving distance. Additionally, establishments in Raleigh such as Walmart, Lowe’s, and Target make running errands convenient for seniors in Holly Springs.
Hamlet
For those finding Holly Springs too bustling, Hamlet offers a more tranquil environment suitable for all retirees. The town radiates southern hospitality, and each of its 6,000 residents welcomes people with open arms. Settling down here feels like coming home, and newcomers quickly become part of the community. Hamlet's rich history, dating back to its founding in 1869, includes being an economic hub due to its railroad and experiencing significant transformations. Today, seniors can explore this history at the Hamlet Depot and Museum, a beautifully restored iconic building, or delve deeper at the National Railroad Museum, where railroad enthusiasts can marvel at hundreds of artifacts. With 17.5% of its population aged 65 and above, seniors will find plenty of company.
The town's housing rates are very attractive. As of 2022, the median housing value was $97,600, making it one of the most affordable towns in the state. This affordability makes it easy for retirees to buy their dream home and enjoy a financially comfortable retirement. Weekends at spots like the Seaboard Station Restaurant, offering southern classics like fried chicken and cornbread, are a particular delight for retirees.
Wilson
Wilson appeals to seniors with its rich heritage and a big-city atmosphere. Formerly celebrated as 'The World’s Greatest Tobacco Market' due to its tobacco cultivation, Wilson is now the vibrant county seat of Wilson County. This rich history fosters a great environment, and most locals love to spend their day indulging in the town’s allure. The vibrant downtown area is popular, thanks to its array of eateries, stores, and cultural attractions. Cultural enthusiasts are drawn to sites like the Freeman Round House and the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park and Museum. Restaurants such as Parker’s Barbeque are popular among seniors for their delicious offerings. Additionally, the town boasts natural hotspots that provide a tranquil escape from the energetic streets. The Wilson Rose Garden, known for its hundreds of majestic flowers, and Lake Wilson, offering activities like kayaking, hiking, and boating, are ideal for seniors seeking fresh air.
As the county seat, Wilson provides seniors with all the necessary amenities and services for a comfortable life. The Wilson Medical Center is one of many medical facilities in the region, offering comprehensive support for various health conditions. The town also has several retirement communities, such as Parkwood Village and The Landing, providing medical assistance, great environments, and affordable pricing. With 8,800 of its 49,000 residents above the age of 65, these residences have a strong sense of community among seniors. Furthermore, Wilson’s low median housing value of $167,000 makes it an attractive option for those looking to buy their own home.
North Carolina, with its stunning scenery and vibrant culture, is a haven for retirees. Each town, whether it’s Beaufort with its sunbathing along the Atlantic coast or Wilson with its rich tobacco history, offers unique benefits for seniors. These include affordable housing, lively social environments, and world-class healthcare, creating an ideal setting for retirement.
