North Carolina, with its wide-ranging landscapes from stunning coastlines to scenic mountains and enchanting cities, offers retirees an alluring mix of beauty, community, and affordability. This guide delves into the top 10 budget-friendly retirement havens in North Carolina, ensuring a fulfilling retirement without compromising on the joy of exploration and comfort.
10 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina on a Budget
- Why North Carolina for Retirement?
- Criteria for Our Selection
- Top 10 Affordable Places to Retire in North Carolina
- Making the Most of Your Retirement in North Carolina
- Final Thoughts
Why North Carolina for Retirement?
Choosing North Carolina as your retirement destination means embracing a lifestyle that combines an affordable cost of living, significant tax benefits for retirees, top-notch healthcare access, and a myriad of lifestyle options. Whether it’s coastal serenity, mountainous adventures, or the lively urban scene you’re after, North Carolina caters to every preference, all while being gentle on your retirement savings.
Not sure if North Carolina is right for you? Check out our comprehensive guide to the pros and cons of retiring in North Carolina.
Criteria for Our Selection
Our carefully curated list of the top 10 places to retire in North Carolina is based on several key factors: affordability, healthcare accessibility, opportunities for community engagement, cultural and recreational amenities, and the overall quality of life. These destinations offer a harmonious balance of a rich, fulfilling retirement experience and financial sensibility.
While affordability is a major consideration in our recommendations, it’s balanced against other important criteria. Some locations may have a higher than average cost of living, but their extensive offerings and benefits can still make them an excellent value and a viable option for many retirees.
Additionally, several of our selections are designated by the North Carolina General Assembly as “Certified Retirement Communities” (Marion, Roanoke Rapids, Elizabeth City, and New Bern).
Top 10 Affordable Places to Retire in North Carolina
10. Asheville
- Population (2024): 93,162
- Cost of Living Score: 105.8 (5.8% above the national average)
- Median Listing Prices: $520,131 – $749,000 (depending on zip code)
- Top choice for: a mountain city with an artsy vibe
Asheville, with its enviable vantage point in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers retirees a unique blend of artistic flair and natural beauty. Known for its thriving arts scene, the city is filled with galleries, live music venues, and a renowned craft brewery scene. Asheville’s historical architecture, notably the iconic Biltmore Estate, adds a touch of elegance and a deep sense of history to the area.
The city’s culinary scene is rich with farm-to-table restaurants and cozy cafes, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and local produce. For those who love the outdoors, the surrounding mountains provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the scenic beauty of western North Carolina.
Asheville also fosters a strong sense of community with its numerous festivals and cultural events, including the Asheville Film Festival and the Moogfest, celebrating music, art, and innovation. This combination of cultural richness, natural beauty, and a welcoming community makes Asheville an appealing destination for retirees seeking both relaxation and stimulation in their golden years.
9. Calabash
- Population (2024): 2,607
- Cost of Living Score: 101.4 (1.4% higher than the national average)
- Median Listing Prices: $359,000
- Top choice for: a quiet coastal spot with world-class seafood
Calabash, affectionately known as the “Seafood Capital of the World,” offers retirees a quaint coastal lifestyle with exceptional value. Located close to both Myrtle Beach and Wilmington, residents can enjoy the serenity of a small town while having easy access to the amenities of larger cities. Calabash is renowned for its waterfront restaurants (preparing delicious seafood feasts in the distinctive Calabash style) and proximity to top-tier golf courses and pristine beaches.
Despite a cost of living that’s 1.4% above the national average, Calabash remains one of the best values on North Carolina’s southern coast, thanks to its scenic views, leisure activities, and a close-knit community atmosphere. Events like the Calabash Seafood Festival highlight the town’s local spirit, making it a desirable location for retirees seeking a peaceful yet engaging coastal retirement.
8. Marion
- Population (2024): 7,273
- Cost of Living Score: 80.8 (19.2% below the national average)
- Median Listing Price: $361,750
- Top choice for: an affordable mountain retreat
Marion, located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers retirees a peaceful, scenic environment. This charming town boasts a lively downtown filled with historic architecture, local shops, and cafes, providing a quaint Appalachian atmosphere.
While Marion enjoys the tranquility of small-town life, it’s conveniently close to Asheville, allowing easy access to a broader range of amenities. The town’s cost of living is close to the national average, making it an affordable option for those seeking an active lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities like hiking and fishing nearby.
With its community-focused events such as the Marion BBQ Festival and the Mountain Glory Festival, Marion is an attractive destination for retirees who value natural beauty and a slower pace of life.
7. Reidsville
- Population (2024): 14,542
- Cost of Living Score: 78 (22% below the national average)
- Median Listing Price: $213,660
- Top choice for: a tight-knit community full of Southern charm
Reidsville is an ideal retreat for retirees who value a peaceful, small-town environment. The town’s motto, “live simply, think big,” reflects its easy-going yet ambitious spirit. Reidsville is celebrated for its historic downtown, which is lined with charming shops and local diners that exude Southern hospitality. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, the town offers numerous outdoor activities, including picnicking, fishing, and leisurely strolls around Lake Reidsville, making it a perfect place for retirees seeking both relaxation and community engagement.
Reidsville is also celebrated for its community spirit, hosting numerous events throughout the year that bring residents together, such as the annual Reidsville Fall Festival. These gatherings enhance the close-knit feel of the town, making it an appealing place for those looking to enjoy a peaceful retirement with a strong sense of community.
6. Roanoke Rapids
- Population (2024): 14,527
- Cost of Living Score: 73.2 (26.8% below the national average)
- Median Listing Price: $181,000
- Top choice for: a sportsman’s paradise away from the hustle and bustle
Roanoke Rapids offers retirees a unique blend of cultural activities and natural beauty. Situated along the scenic Roanoke River, the town provides abundant opportunities for fishing, boating, and leisurely riverside strolls, complemented by several parks and recreational areas.
If you like hunting and fishing, you can’t ask for a much better place to retire than Roanoke Rapids. The town’s proximity to the Roanoke River and surrounding natural areas provides ample opportunities for these activities, ensuring a retiree’s life can be as active and outdoors-focused as desired.
The town’s strategic location, triangulated between Richmond, Norfolk, and Raleigh, allows residents easy access to urban amenities while enjoying the tranquility of a small-town setting. Roanoke Rapids is perfect for those who appreciate outdoor activities, with its rich natural resources and community events enhancing the local lifestyle.
5. Elizabeth City
- Population (2024): 18,899
- Cost of Living Score: 84.4 (15.6% below the national average)
- Median Listing Price: $319,900
- Top choice for: a “Harbor of Hospitality” close to the Outer Banks
Elizabeth City, known as the “Harbor of Hospitality,” offers retirees a delightful coastal lifestyle enriched by its maritime heritage. Situated on the Pasquotank River near the Albemarle Sound, the city is ideal for those who enjoy boating and fishing.
The charming downtown area features historic architecture, art galleries, and cozy cafes, creating a welcoming community vibe. Elizabeth City is active year-round with events like the North Carolina Potato Festival, adding to its local charm.
A unique advantage for Elizabeth City residents is its proximity to the Outer Banks, with Kitty Hawk just an hour’s drive away, making day trips to the beautiful barrier islands easily accessible. This proximity, combined with the city’s rich cultural offerings and scenic waterfront, makes Elizabeth City a prime retirement destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
4. New Bern
- Population (2024): 31,792
- Cost of Living Score: 83.6 (16.4% below the national average)
- Median Listing Prices: $365,000 – $349,000 (depending on zip code)
- Top choice for: waterfront living in a historic small town
New Bern, North Carolina, at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent rivers, combines historic charm with relaxing waterfront living. As the birthplace of Pepsi and North Carolina’s former colonial capital, New Bern boasts a rich history reflected in its well-preserved architecture and historic sites.
The downtown area is lively, featuring art galleries, boutique shops, and gourmet restaurants, all enhancing the city’s relaxed atmosphere. Residents enjoy boating, fishing, and riverside walks, contributing to a tranquil yet engaging lifestyle.
Known for its friendly community and events like the popular Mumfest, New Bern offers retirees a picturesque setting that is both culturally rich and welcoming, making it an ideal choice for a fulfilling retirement.
3. Mint Hill
- Population (2024): 27,143
- Cost of Living Score: 102.5 (2.5% higher than the national average)
- Median Listing Price: $545,000
- Top choice for: affordability in the Charlotte metro area
Mint Hill, North Carolina, offers retirees a peaceful suburban retreat with the charm of wooded neighborhoods filled with tall trees, just on the outskirts of Charlotte. This town provides a perfect balance of tranquility and accessibility to urban amenities.
Mint Hill fosters a warm, community-focused atmosphere with local shops, casual dining, and engaging community events like the Mint Hill Madness festival. The town also features scenic walking trails and parks, ideal for those who enjoy the outdoors. The Mint Hill Historical Society adds a cultural touch with its educational programs and preserved historical sites.
Ideal for retirees seeking a quiet, yet connected lifestyle, Mint Hill combines natural beauty and suburban convenience, making it an appealing choice for a relaxed retirement in the Charlotte area.
2. Hickory
- Population (2024): 44,612
- Cost of Living Score: 89 (11% below the national average)
- Median Listing Prices: $295,000 – $369,450 (depending on zip code)
- Top choice for: North Carolina’s “Goldie Locks” city (where everything is “just right”)
Suburban comfort meets natural beauty in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Hickory offers a perfect balance for those seeking a moderate climate and lifestyle. Its location shields it from the extremes of summer heat and winter cold, providing a comfortable setting year-round.
The city boasts a lively yet manageable downtown with a rich array of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues like the Hickory Museum of Art and Hickory Community Theatre. Not too built-up yet far from isolated, Hickory provides just the right mix of activity and tranquility. With easy access to outdoor adventures on Lake Hickory and surrounding parks, Hickory represents the ideal middle ground for a fulfilling, balanced life.
1. Durham
- Population (2024): 299,494
- Cost of Living Score: 98.8 (1.2% below the national average)
- Median Listing Prices: $350,000 – $750,000
- Top choice for: Research Triangle amenities at a discount
Durham, known as the City of Medicine, combines its rich historical legacy with a vibrant, refreshed spirit, making it an appealing destination for retirees. With top-tier healthcare facilities, including Duke University Hospital, retirees have access to some of the best medical services in the country, ensuring peace of mind for healthcare needs.
The city is also a cultural powerhouse with an active arts scene, evident in its live music venues, contemporary art galleries, and performance spaces like the Durham Performing Arts Center. Durham’s revitalized downtown area is bustling with eclectic shops, gourmet restaurants, and craft breweries, providing endless entertainment and dining options.
For those who appreciate the outdoors, Durham offers numerous parks and gardens, such as the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, which provide beautiful spaces for walking and relaxation. The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the renowned Durham Bulls baseball games, which bring the community together.
Making the Most of Your Retirement in North Carolina
To truly embrace retirement in North Carolina, immerse yourself in local communities, explore the state’s vast natural and cultural resources, and seize the many opportunities for lifelong learning and recreation. North Carolina offers not just a picturesque backdrop for your retirement years but also a rich tapestry of experiences to enhance your quality of life
Final Thoughts
Retiring in North Carolina offers the best of both worlds: affordability and a high-quality lifestyle. With its diverse landscapes, welcoming communities, and wide range of activities, North Carolina stands out as a top destination for retirees seeking a fulfilling, budget-friendly retirement.
While North Carolina provides a variety of ideal retirement options for every lifestyle and budget, you might also want to explore our lists of budget-friendly retirement destinations in South Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee.
Median listing price data provided courtesy of realtor.com
All population data is courtesy of World Population Review
Cost of living score provided courtesy of BestPlaces.net
