North Carolina's 9 Best Retirement Towns Ranked
Nestled in the southeastern region of the United States, North Carolina is a captivating destination for seniors seeking a balanced and laid-back southern lifestyle. It provides retirees with great opportunities for outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, a mild climate, a thriving arts scene, and many top-rated 55+ communities. From cozy small towns to lively cities, North Carolina welcomes retirees with open arms and a lifestyle that makes the most of every moment. Here are North Carolina's 9 best retirement towns.
New Bern
New Bern is one of North Carolina’s cutest towns, where comfort meets history. As the ex-colonial capital of North Carolina, this coastal town blends a rich history, fascinating architecture, and scenic views along the Neuse and Trent Rivers. Retirees explore its downtown, filled with galleries, boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and community events. Considering its coastal status, New Bern is relatively affordable compared to other North Carolina towns, with a median listing home price of $316,470. It also boasts low crime rates, 4% lower than the North Carolina average. Carolina East Medical Center leads a healthcare network, with CarolinaEast Medical Center offering comprehensive services and senior care. Croatan Village provides assisted living for those looking to settle into a retirement community.
Beaufort County
Beaufort County, located in eastern North Carolina, is home to the charming town of Washington, often called “Little Washington.” Beaufort County offers a slower pace of life that appeals to retirees seeking tranquility. It’s also relatively affordable compared to other coastal areas in the U.S., with a median listing home price of $375,000. It boasts a lovely downtown with a growing arts scene, waterfront boardwalk, and cozy local restaurants. Healthcare needs are well-covered with ECU Health Beaufort Hospital, providing reliable access to primary and specialty care. For retirement living, River Trace Nursing and Rehabilitation Center stands out for its attentive care and supportive environment.
Laurinburg
Laurinburg offers convenient access to Charlotte, Raleigh, and the coast in the south-central part of North Carolina. With a population of 15,000, it is one of the more affordable retirement destinations with a median home price of $148,900 according to realtor.com. It offers top-tier healthcare, such as Scotia Village, a nationally accredited Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), and the Scotland Health Care System, ensuring residents have access to comprehensive medical services. Outdoor activities abound, and the nearby Lumber River provides opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and fishing. Seniors who have a variety of interests can access golf courses, wineries, historical sites, and museums.
Wilson
Wilson is a hidden gem in eastern North Carolina that’s becoming a popular spot for retirees. Known for its Southern hospitality, this quiet countryside boasts a population of less than 50,000 who prefer a relaxed pace and affordable living. Its vibrant downtown area is home to local shops, restaurants, and public art. Its cost of living is lower than the national average, and the median listing home price of $254,500 adds to its appeal. Healthcare is solid here, anchored by Wilson Medical Center, which provides a full range of services for seniors. Spring Arbor of Wilson is a well-regarded community for those seeking long-term living options.
Kinston
Located in Lenoir County, Kinston offers suburban life with a riverside community. The historic district takes people back in time, with historical buildings housing shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Retirees stroll downtown, visit the CSS Neuse Civil War Museum, and try the local food scene. Healthcare is anchored by UNC Health Lenoir, a reputable regional hospital offering quality care in everything from cardiology to orthopedics. Retirement options like Spring Arbor of Kinston provide assisted living and memory care in a warm, comfortable setting.
Reidsville
Reidsville is a peaceful, affordable town in Rockingham County that offers retirees the best of both worlds, quiet suburban living with access to larger cities like Greensboro. The cost of living in Reidsville is 10% lower than the North Carolina average, and housing is affordable, with a median home price of $210,000. Healthcare is supported by Annie Penn Hospital, just a short drive away, offering a solid range of services, including senior care. Reidsville is also home to several assisted living and senior communities like Brookdale Reidsville, which is known for its personalized care and welcoming environment. It’s a great option for retirees seeking a budget-friendly town in North Carolina, space, and a friendly, laid-back pace.
Winterville
Located south of Greenville in Pitt County, Winterville is a small family-oriented community that's big on local flavor. Named one of the best places to live in North Carolina by niche.com, Winterville is one of the safest NC cities, with crime rates lower than the North Carolina average. According to Realtor.com, the median home price is $315,000, which is lower than the national average. Winterville is known for its walkable streets and annual events like the Winterville Watermelon Festival, which brings the whole community together. Healthcare is reliable, thanks to the proximity of ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, one of the region’s top hospitals offering comprehensive care.
Brevard
In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the "Land of Waterfalls" offers breathtaking scenery, mild seasons, and access to outdoor activities like hiking, fly fishing, and scenic drives through nearby Pisgah National Forest. Brevard's crime rates are 31% lower than the North Carolina average, making it appealing to retirees, in addition to the housing market presenting good value for a desirable mountain location. The renowned Brevard Music Center and numerous festivals keep residents culturally engaged, while the small-town atmosphere helps maintain impressive safety records. Healthcare is close to home, with Transylvania Regional Hospital, a part of the Mission Health system, providing quality care in family medicine, rehabilitation, cardiology, and more.
Pinehurst
Famous for its world-class golf courses, Pinehurst is more than just a golfer’s paradise; it’s also one of the most attractive retirement destinations in North Carolina. Named by SmartAsset.com as one of the best places to retire in North Carolina for its healthcare access and large population of retirees, Pinehurst has an excellent livability Score of 73/100, as per Areavibes, and low crime rates, 82% lower than the North Carolina average. Retirees find walking trails, boutique shopping, cultural events, and a strong sense of community. Healthcare is top tier, anchored by FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital, a nationally recognized facility offering comprehensive services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and senior wellness programs.
Whether you're drawn to the mountains, the coast, or somewhere in between, North Carolina has a retirement town to match your pace and lifestyle. From the scenic charm of Brevard to the vibrant culture of Durham and the peaceful coastal vibe of Beaufort County, each town offers something special for retirees, be it top-notch healthcare, affordable living, or a strong sense of community. With so many welcoming options, North Carolina is one of the best places to enjoy your golden years with comfort, connection, and quality of life.
