10 Best Places To Retire In North Carolina
North Carolina has long been a popular destination for retirees, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, a mild climate, and affordability. From coastal towns to mountain communities, the state offers a wide range of settings for a comfortable next chapter. Low property taxes and an exemption on Social Security income add to its financial appeal.
According to the American Community Survey, about 44,000 people aged 60 and older moved to North Carolina in 2022. That number is expected to grow as more residents choose to stay and enjoy retirement close to home. The ten towns listed below stand out for their combination of accessible healthcare, affordable housing costs, and amenities that make day-to-day living both easy and enjoyable.
New Bern
With its scenic location at the meeting of the Neuse and Trent Rivers, New Bern has long been one of North Carolina’s favorite destinations. The historic downtown is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cafés that overlook the water. Tryon Palace highlights the city’s colonial heritage and hosts a steady schedule of events, including guided holiday tours.
The North Carolina History Center provides engaging exhibits for those interested in the state’s past. Union Point Park offers waterfront paths and views of downtown, ideal for daily walks. The CarolinaEast Medical Center ensures quality healthcare close to home. With an active arts scene and a lively community calendar, New Bern features the best of coastal culture, cuisine, and comfort.
Mount Airy
Mount Airy is famous for being the inspiration for Mayberry on “The Andy Griffith Show.” The town charms visitors with its nostalgic downtown, vintage diners, and friendly disposition. Retirees enjoy a slower pace of life paired with low housing costs and stunning foothills views.
Walk down Main Street to blissfully pass the time window shopping at antique stores and going down memory lane at the Andy Griffith Museum. Hike the scenic trails at Pilot Mountain State Park to stay connected to nature year-round, or sample local wines along the Yadkin Valley Wine Trail. Mount Airy also boasts the well-regarded Northern Regional Hospital, ensuring convenient access to healthcare. While a sleepy small town on the surface, Mount Airy has a great balance of outdoor recreation, cinematic history, and a relaxed Southern take on daily life.
Eden
Eden sits at the junction of the Dan and Smith Rivers, providing retirees with ample access to serene river walks, kayaking, and fishing. The town’s affordability, with homes averaging around $150,000, makes it one of the state’s most budget-friendly choices.Mayo River State Park supports hiking and camping, Freedom Park hosts community events, and Historic Uptown Eden features local shops and eateries. Healthcare is readily available through UNC Health Rockingham, and the low cost of living allows residents to enjoy the outdoors without financial strain.
Salisbury
Salisbury combines Southern charm with easy access to modern conveniences for those who want to be close to metros like Charlotte but not live in them. Its walkable downtown is packed with art galleries, local theaters, and museums, making it ideal for retirees who enjoy staying active and social.
Visit the nearby North Carolina Transportation Museum, catch a show at Lee Street theatre, or take a sunny stroll around Salisbury City Park. Home prices here hover around $215,000, offering good value in the Piedmont region. With a strong healthcare system and numerous community programs for seniors, Salisbury feels both welcoming and well-connected.
Smithfield
Smithfield offers retirees a quiet lifestyle just a short drive from Raleigh and other major Triangle-area amenities. The town’s cost of living remains moderate, and its proximity to major highways makes travel and access to healthcare easy. Smithfield Community Park offers open green space for morning walks, and the Ava Gardner Museum highlights the life of the beloved local actress. The Carolina Premium Outlets provide convenient shopping and dining options for residents and visitors alike. Smithfield’s combination of small-town friendliness and urban accessibility has made it increasingly popular among retirees seeking a place that offers the best of both small-town and big-city living.
Reidsville
Reidsville’s beautiful natural setting and affordable homes (around $190,000) make it a solid retirement choice in north-central North Carolina. Lake Reidsville Park supports boating and fishing, while the Chinqua-Penn Walking Trail offers a scenic local hike. Restock and shop in the historic Downtown District while admiring the late 18th- and early 19th-century architecture. The town is also home to local clinics and hospitals, offering easy access to care. Its mix of affordability, friendliness, and manageable pace provides retirees with the chance to live comfortably without compromising on amenities.
Thomasville
Known as the “Chair Town,” Thomasville’s proud history in furniture making is still visible in its downtown district. The star attraction in the town is “The Big Chair”, a 30-foot-tall Duncan Phyfe chair that honors the craft of the town’s earlier residents.
Beyond that legacy, the town offers a lively community that is ideal for retirees who enjoy staying busy. The Thomasville Emporium features a wide range of antiques, Lake Thom-A-Lex Park provides quiet recreation, and the Thomasville Farmers Market showcases local produce and crafts.Housing prices remain well below the state average, and the town’s central location provides residents with easy access to healthcare centers in larger cities, such as Greensboro. It’s a comfortable balance between affordability and activity.
Lexington
Lexington is the undisputed “Barbecue Capital of North Carolina,” giving it an eccentric flair. However, it’s also an affordable place to retire, boasting a strong sense of community. High Rock Lake supports fishing and sailing, while annual festivals like the Lexington Barbecue Festival celebrate local culture.
The Davidson County Historical Museum presents more than two centuries of regional history. The cost of living is lower in Lexington than in most metropolitan areas, and residents have access to good healthcare and recreational opportunities nearby. A low cost of living, reliable healthcare access, and an active events calendar make Lexington a strong choice for retirees seeking comfort and connection.
Shelby
Shelby sits by the foothills near the North/South Carolina border and is often overlooked as a good place to live. The town sets itself apart with its vibrant performing arts scene. The Earl Scruggs Center honors Shelby’s musical heritage and explores the life of the banjo legend and the roots of Bluegrass music in the region. Moss Lake Recreation Park provides opportunities for fishing and boating in a calm, scenic setting. Historic Uptown Shelby is an inviting space that is walkable and features the Don Gibson Theatre, which hosts regular live acts from various entertainment genres. With home prices around $200,000 and access to regional hospitals, retirees find Shelby both affordable and enriching.
Lenoir
Lenoir is one of the most affordable towns in the North Carolina mountain region, with a median home value of approximately $165,000. Retirees can enjoy the nearby Caldwell Heritage Museum, which hosts regular exhibits that explore the town's history, dating back to its Native American inhabitants. The city’s Greenway Trails encourage outdoor activity, and short drives lead to scenic spots such as Blowing Rock. Lenoir also offers access to picturesque drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a popular destination among scenic road travelers. The town gives residents breathtaking mountain views without high costs or heavy tourist crowds. It’s an excellent fit for retirees who value independence, tranquility, and easy access to nature over big-city amenities.
Retirement the Tar Heel Way
North Carolina offers far more than beautiful scenery; it provides a practical and fulfilling place to spend retirement. The towns highlighted here combine affordability, access to care, and opportunities for recreation and community connection. Whether it’s the riverside views of New Bern, the nostalgic feel of Mount Airy, or the mountain backdrop of Lenoir, each destination has its own appeal.
Choosing where to retire is a personal decision, but North Carolina’s range of options makes it easy to find a setting that fits both lifestyle and budget. For many, the state’s mix of charm, convenience, and quality of life turns retirement into a rewarding new chapter.
