Skip to content
If sunny days at the beach inspire you, consider that North Carolina has an estimated 200 days of sunshine with average temperatures around 70 degrees. Affordable communities and a wealth of activities make the coast a perfect place to live the good life.
For many retirees, the dream of coastal living comes with one big question: can I actually afford it? In North Carolina, the answer is yes. With property taxes that fall below the state average, no tax on Social Security benefits, and communities designed to support active, engaged living, the coast offers more than beauty—it offers peace of mind.
Explore the Coast’s Certified Retirement Communities
With 322 miles of coastal shoreline, North Carolina provides a myriad of living options for retirees. There are seven areas in the Coastal region that have achieved the designation of Certified Retirement Communities. This means that these areas provide the amenities, services, and opportunities to enable retirees to lead active and productive lives.
Morehead City & Carteret County.
Known as the Crystal Coast, this area lives up to its enchanting name with warm, high-visibility waters perfect for scuba diving. Morehead City, the largest town in the area, provides retirees with the right blend of health care, foodie delights, and retail stores. Carteret County is consistently ranked as the county with the lowest property tax rates in the state.
Edenton.
There are water-based excursions a-plenty here in this small town, which has been named the “prettiest small town in the South” located at the intersection of Albemarle Sound, the Chowan River, and Queen Anne Creek. Whether paddling, exploring lighthouses, walking, playing golf, or admiring nature, retirees have many options for staying active.
Elizabeth City.
One of the things that makes Elizabeth City unique is that it’s an official Coast Guard City and its base is the largest on the East Coast. It also has a rich history with sites designated as part of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.
New Bern.
Named one of the “Top 10 Coastal Towns Where You Can Afford to Retire,” New Bern offers an exhilarating blend of history, modern conveniences, and natural treasures. It was North Carolina’s first state capital, the birthplace of Pepsi Cola, and home to Tryon Palace. Housing options here cater to any budget and lifestyle.
Roanoke Rapids.
Roanoke Rapids offers homespun friendliness. Activities here include walking, jogging, or biking along the Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Lake Gaston beckons for swimming, boating, and fishing. Indoor classes such as tai chi, yoga, and workouts are offered at T.J. Davis Recreation Center, the aquatic center, and Jo Story Senior Center.
Washington & Beaufort County.
Located on the Pamlico Sound, Washington has always been a “seafood-to-table” kind of town. The Washington Seafood Trail points the way whether you want to catch your own dinner or find an award-winning chef to prepare it for you. Food is just one part of a coastal lifestyle for retirees—there’s plenty more to explore from arts and crafts to outdoor excursions.
Winterville. Fewer than 11,000 people reside here, making it an easy choice for retirees who want a slower pace and a feeling of connectedness in the community. Yet it’s close enough to get to the big city or the ocean quickly. This town is just an hour and a half east of Raleigh and an hour from the water.
