• Menu
  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

NewHomeSource

  • Learning Center
  • Just For You
    • First Time Home Buyers
    • 55 Plus
    • International Buyers
    • For The Military
    • Single Women
  • Home Types
    • Custom Homes
    • Condos & Townhomes
    • Luxury Homes
    • Tiny Houses
    • Manufactured Homes
  • Resources
    • Home Buying Tools
    • Mortgage Calculator
    • Home Affordability Calculator
    • Trustbuilder Ratings & Reviews
  • Learning Center
  • Just For You
    • First Time Home Buyers
    • 55 Plus
    • International Buyers
    • For The Military
    • Single Women
  • Home Types
    • Custom Homes
    • Condos & Townhomes
    • Luxury Homes
    • Tiny Houses
    • Manufactured Homes
  • Resources
    • Home Buying Tools
    • Mortgage Calculator
    • Home Affordability Calculator
    • Trustbuilder Ratings & Reviews
Home ยป 55+ ยป The 10 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina in 2021

The 10 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina in 2021

Raleigh, North Carolina street

North Carolina is an attractive state for retirees and its low taxes allow you to stretch  your savings. Undiscovered beaches let you enjoy a leisurely coastal retirement without a massive Florida or California price tag. Plus, vibrant cities give you an exciting place to spend your time.

NewHomeSource found the top 10 cities to retire in North Carolina. Finding the perfect place for this amazing chapter in your life means investing in your quality of life and your future.

Top 10 Cities to Retire in North Carolina

Skip Ahead
1. Eden
2. Spring Lake
3. Hendersonville
4. Henderson
5. Kinston
6. Laurinburg
7. Reidville
8. Lexington
9. Newton
10. Lumberton
Common Questions About Retiring in North Carolina

1. Eden

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 20.0%

Median Home Value: $87,500

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 88

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 513

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 3

Eden is a charming small town outside Greensboro. If youโ€™re looking to enjoy peace and quiet during your retirement, Eden will be the perfect paradise for you. Retirees love Edenโ€™s low cost of living, affordable median home prices, and its low crime rate.

2. Spring Lake

Spring Lake, North Carolina

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 5.4%

Median Home Value: $94,300

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 73

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 444

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 7

Spring Lake is a delightful town on the outskirts of Fayetteville and Fort Bragg. This delightful community lets retirees looking to live a life they love on a fixed income make the most of their newfound freedom โ€“ without blowing their budget. Start your search for the perfect retirement home in Spring Lake today.

3. Hendersonville

view from hiking trail in hendersonville, north carolina

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 16.5%

Median Home Value: $100,100

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 61

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 680

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 10

Hendersonville is a great place for anyone who loves to support local businesses and communities. The cityโ€™s historic downtown offers a bustling business hub of shops, restaurants, museums, farmers markets, and entertainment centers.

4. Henderson

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 16.5%

Median Home Value: $100,100

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 242

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 828

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 4

This town, right outside of Raleigh, is perfect for retirees looking for a small-town feel. Henderson has plenty of activities to keep you busy, including bowling, taking in a movie at an outdoor theater, some fun rides at an amusement park. Outdoor enthusiasts will be delighted to spend time at  Kerr Lake, where they can camp, go boating, and fishing. Itโ€™s an idyllic spot for  family or community gatherings.

5. Kinston

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 22.9%

Median Home Value: $101,800

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 242

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 1,229

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 2

Retirees looking for a laid-back retirement will love life in Kinston, NC. This beautiful riverside community gives active adults the chance to relax in an unbelievably affordable city. If youโ€™re ready to live life on your terms, start your search for your new home in Kinston today.

6. Laurinburg

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 18.2%

Median Home Value: $103,200

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 160

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 762

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 2

Laurinburg truly has something for every type of retiree โ€“ and a low cost of living to boot! The cityโ€™s charming history and architecture will appeal to art and history buffs who want to step back in time. Spend a day with friends and connect with their community while you savor the simple life. Retirees looking for high-octane fun can head over to the ATV park. No matter how you spend your retirement, youโ€™ll love life in Laurinburg.

7. Reidville

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 21.0%

Median Home Value: $103,500

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 105

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 890

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 5

Active adults love living in Reidsville, NC. Miles of walking trails wind through this historic town on the bank of the Haw River. Retirees who want to maintain a high level of activity during their golden years can hike while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Both Lake Reidsville and Haw River State Park are prime locations where you can enjoy riverside entertainment and Mother Nature at her finest.

8. Lexington

Lexington, North Carolina

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 16.4%

Median Home Value: $104,200

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 121

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 812

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 10

If you like the idea of living in a historic and peaceful community, while still having easy access to metropolitan hubs, you will love life in Lexington, NC. This charming suburb of Greensboro offers retirees a comfortable community and a low cost of living, without forcing them to sacrifice their lifestyle.

9. Newton

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 17.3%

Median Home Value: $110,200

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 46

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 458

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 9

Newton is a beautiful suburb of Charlotte, that gives active adults the chance to relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature during their golden years. If youโ€™re looking to invest in a comfortable life that still provides you with easy access to urban areas, youโ€™ll love Newton.

10. Lumberton

Lumberton, North Carolina

Percentage of the Population Over 65: 16.0%

Median Home Value: $109,800

Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 366

Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 2,438

Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 3

Lumberton is a beautiful community nestled in the heart of North Carolinaโ€™s beautiful natural setting. Retirees looking to stay active and explore the outdoors during their golden years can live a life they love in Lumberton. Rounding out this wonderful neighborhood is a safe environment and a low cost of living.

Common Questions About Retiring in North Carolina

Is North Carolina tax-friendly for retirees?

In North Carolina, your Social Security benefits are not taxable; however, the state taxes most other retirement income at the flat rate of 5.25%.

How much do you need to retire in North Carolina?

To retire comfortably in the state of North Carolina starting today, you will need to have saved at least $65,000.

Here is the complete listโ€ฆ

city name people over 65 violent crimes property crimes access to doctors median home price
Charlotte 10.20% 5,988.00 30,866.00 13 $220,300
Raleigh 10.60% 1,232.00 8,695.00 13 $248,300
Greensboro 13.70% 2,440.00 10,994.00 4 $156,300
Durham 11.60% 2,051.00 11,089.00 14 $224,100
Winston-Salem 14.10% 2,133.00 12,302.00 9 $147,900
Fayetteville 11.60% 1,839.00 7,428.00 6 $131,000
Cary 12.20% 114.00 1,560.00 15 $356,400
Wilmington 16.50% 759.00 3,593.00 7 $246,400
High Point 14.70% 828.00 3,725.00 9 $151,900
Concord 12.00% 117.00 1,586.00 12 $206,600
Greenville 10.20% 437.00 2,837.00 5 $161,200
Asheville 18.10% 695.00 5,923.00 9 $270,400
Gastonia 15.60% 556.00 3,672.00 11 $155,200
Jacksonville 6.20% 225.00 1,664.00 3 $154,900
Chapel Hill 11.20% 67.00 1,077.00 12 $399,700
Huntersville 10.20% 79.00 948.00 12 $301,500
Rocky Mount 17.30% 424.00 1,627.00 3 $113,100
Apex 7.90% 53.00 527.00 3 $327,800
Burlington 17.20% 460.00 2,490.00 2 $134,100
Kannapolis 13.40% 132.00 1,154.00 10 $144,400
Wilson 18.70% 220.00 1,545.00 5 $123,600
Wake Forest 11.40% 24.00 393.00 15 $297,300
Hickory 16.90% 165.00 1,792.00 7 $168,600
Indian Trail 9.40% 60.00 550.00 12 $216,100
Mooresville 12.10% 65.00 1,050.00 9 $232,700
Holly Springs 7.50% 25.00 256.00 11 $320,900
Monroe 12.80% 332.00 1,881.00 12 $164,000
Goldsboro 16.40% 267.00 1,985.00 5 $127,300
Salisbury 18.30% 249.00 1,413.00 9 $129,100
Matthews 17.10% 58.00 1,112.00 13 $249,200
Garner 14.60% 79.00 1,076.00 8 $190,000
New Bern 21.80% 125.00 999.00 1 $155,900
Sanford 11.30% 63.00 745.00 3 $142,200
Cornelius 15.00% 42.00 363.00 13 $322,400
Fuquay-Varina 13.10% 26.00 295.00 10 $255,900
Morrisville 6.40% 12.00 379.00 15 $331,800
Mint Hill 19.10% 59.00 383.00 12 $268,300
Statesville 15.90% 201.00 1,017.00 7 $151,800
Thomasville 16.80% 86.00 953.00 9 $116,800
Asheboro 16.80% 695.00 5,923.00 9 $120,900
Kernersville 17.40% 65.00 1,141.00 9 $181,300
Clayton 10.40% 29.00 497.00 7 $192,900
Leland 25.80% 36.00 323.00 7 $243,200
Carrboro 9.50% 31.00 403.00 12 $368,800
Lumberton 16.00% 366.00 2,438.00 3 $109,800
Clemmons 19.10% 35.00 263.00 10 $226,600
Havelock 5.30% 52.00 536.00 2 $138,500
Kinston 22.90% 242.00 1,229.00 2 $101,800
Shelby 20.10% 124.00 620.00 3 $119,300
Boone 6.80% 26.00 261.00 5 $268,100
Lexington 16.40% 121.00 812.00 10 $104,200
Lenoir 20.60% 78.00 799.00 7 $111,300
Elizabeth City 15.10% 91.00 810.00 1 $137,800
Knightdale 8.90% 42.00 326.00 8 $183,000
Morganton 19.90% 82.00 613.00 8 $160,100
Pinehurst 40.90% 11.00 113.00 3 $293,100
Waxhaw 8.80% 25.00 156.00 12 $329,400
Mount Holly 12.20% 26.00 288.00 13 $172,300
Harrisburg 9.40% 7.00 125.00 10 $288,900
Stallings 14.20% 14.00 199.00 13 $250,300
Hope Mills 9.50% 111.00 773.00 5 $134,900
Mebane 10.60% 45.00 691.00 7 $189,600
Graham 17.30% 85.00 434.00 4 $133,800
Laurinburg 18.20% 160.00 762.00 2 $103,200
Henderson 16.50% 242.00 828.00 4 $100,100
Eden 20.00% 88.00 513.00 3 $87,500
Roanoke Rapids 16.60% 128.00 706.00 2 $112,400
Southern Pines 27.20% 46.00 366.00 4 $289,700
Hendersonville 16.50% 61.00 680.00 10 $100,100
Reidsville 21.00% 105.00 890.00 5 $103,500
Lewisville 19.70% 28.00 221.00 9 $195,400
Newton 17.30% 46.00 458.00 9 $110,200
Davidson 14.10% 8.00 121.00 14 $448,300
Smithfield 21.80% 71.00 461.00 8 $142,200
Belmont 12.40% 43.00 531.00 13 $210,600
Spring Lake 5.40% 73.00 444.00 7 $94,300
Elon 19.70% 378.00 2,494.00 2 $253,500
Archdale 17.40% 28.00 223.00 9 $138,000
Summerfield 14.10% 12.00 66.00 8 $361,100
Weddington 13.70% 5.00 75.00 12 $457,900
Lincolnton 18.90% 54.00 360.00 7 $153,800
Kings Mountain 18.10% 15.00 343.00 4 $123,600
Tarboro 23.00% 42.00 328.00 4 $112,100
Mount Airy 26.80% 34.00 424.00 4 $153,700
city name people over 65 violent crimes property crimes access to doctors median home price

NewHomeSource pulled data from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Services, Medicareโ€™s Hospital Compare and the U.S. Census Bureau. In the event exact crime data was unavailable, estimates were used. These factors were entered into an algorithm to calculate a score for each city.

Access to Doctors is calculated by finding the number of hospitals, discounting childrenโ€™s hospitals and VA hospitals within one mile of the city.

Other North Carolina Resources

Best Tiny Home Builders in North Carolina
10 Best State Parks in North Carolina
The 10 Best and Worst U.S. Cities for Allergies
How to Build a House in North Carolina
The Top 13 Best Places to Live in North Carolina
The Top 10 Most Affordable Cities in North Carolina
Your Guide to Closing Costs in North Carolina
Top Master Planned Communities Near Raleigh, NC
Top Master Planned Communities near Charlotte, NC
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in North Carolina
Best Modular Home Builders in Asheville
The Best Suburbs of Raleigh, North Carolina
Moving To Raleigh? This Relocation Guide Will Help
Top 10 Safest Cities in North Carolina
Moving To Charlotte? This Relocation Guide Will Help
Why Charlotte Is the Third Fastest-Growing City in The Country
Jessi Gonzalez author picture
Jessi Gonzalez

Jessi Gonzalez writes on the topics of home-buying, home decor, and home-ownership for New Home Source. She has a degree from Coastal Bend College and is currently enrolled in the English degree program at Texas A&M Corpus Christi.

Get our FREE guide on how the home construction process works

By downloading our guide, you can also look forward to receiving our New Home 101 short email series. You may opt out of this subscription any time you wish.

Previous Post: «View of the ocean in Coos Bay, Oregon The 10 Best Places to Retire in Oregon in 2021
Next Post: The 10 Best Places to Retire in Nevada in 2021 Welcome to Nevada»

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Search new homes

New Home 101

  • The Basics of Newly Built Homes
  • Why Buy a Newly Built Home
  • Shopping for Your New Home
  • Building Your New Home
  • Designing Your Dream Home
  • Buying Your New Home
  • Moving Into Your New Home
  • New Home Glossary

Footer

Quick Links

  • 55+ Communities
  • Condos & Townhomes
  • Custom Home Buyers
  • First-Time Buyers
  • Luxury Homes
  • Manufactured Homes

Related Sites & Resources

  • Learning Center
  • CasasNuevasAqui.com
  • HomLuv.com
  • Real Estate Professionals
  • NewHomeSource App
  • Trust Builder Ratings & Reviews

Helpful Links

  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Builders: List your homes!
  • Unsubscribe
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy & Cookies
  • Do Not Sell My Personal Information

Copyright © 2023 ยท Builders Digital Experience, LLC. All rights reserved. NewHomeSource.com is a trademark of Builders Digital Experience, LLC and all other marks are either trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Dynamic title for modals

Are you sure?

Please confirm deletion. There is no undo!