10 Reasons to Retire in North Carolina

Jun 11, Alissa Sauer

North Carolina is making headlines as an up and coming place to retire, even earning some retirees moving there the nickname, “halfbacks” as retirees from Florida move halfway back home to the mid-Atlantic and mid-South states. Drawing people from all over the country with its beauty, stunning coastline, and southern hospitality, there’s a lot to love about retiring in North Carolina.

Benefits of Retiring in North Carolina

1. Great tax breaks for seniors

In North Carolina, there is no tax on Social Security Income, income taxes have been lowered a flat rate (and that rate has been decreasing), there is no State Estate Tax, and a low corporate income tax. Retiring in North Carolina brings tax benefits, which means that the state considered pro-business, with a great outlook on jobs for seniors looking to start their own business or begin a second career.

2. 301 miles of barrier coastline

With over 300 miles of beaches, you are sure to find one you love. Each beach has a distinct vibe and feeling and many are surrounded by quaint coastal towns – great for family reunions or a quick weekend getaway. The beaches are stunning and bring many families back year after year – a great way to start a new family tradition.

3. The Queen City

Charlotte, North Carolina is the most populous city in the state and offers residents a big city feel with small-town charm. The city mixes the old with the new in an innovative way, bringing history to life with Civil War landmarks, the Discovery Place, the NASCAR Hall of Fame, and even Carowinds, a sprawling theme park all within the Queen City.

4. Mountain Getaways

North Carolina is home to the Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Best known for the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Appalachian Trail, the mountains of North Carolina also boast stunning waterfalls, one of the oldest rivers in North America, farm-fresh foods, and even some of America’s best craft beer. Resorts are spread throughout the mountains and many are open for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. There’s something for everyone in the mountains of North Carolina.

5. Four distinct seasons

When it comes to weather, North Carolina has the best of both worlds. The state has a moderate climate while still offering four distinct seasons. Summers on the beaches, winters in the mountains, breathtaking views in the fall, and beautiful blooms in the spring – North Carolina has it all. The moderate temperatures mean that the outdoors can be enjoyed year-round, keeping retirees active and engaged.

6. The Outer Banks

The Outer Banks (OBX) are barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina and include Hatteras Island, Ocracoke, Roanoke Island, and Bodie Island. A popular getaway for beachcombers, the Outer Banks is ideal for climbing sand dunes, cruising the ocean, learn more about history, exploring nature, and more.

7. Lower than Average Cost of Living

It may seem like all of this comes at a cost, but North Carolina actually has a lower cost of living than the national average. Housing, utilities, and transportation costs all fall below the national average while groceries and health care fall slightly above the national average. Overall, the cost of living in North Carolina comes in 5 points below the national average.

8. The Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway starts in Cherokee, North Carolina through Asheville, and Blowing Rock into Virginia. The parkway is a total of 469 miles and is world-renowned for its biodiversity featuring extremely rare habitats.

9. Endless Historical Sites

North Carolina is home to several historical sites, including battlefields from the Civil War, the Thomas Wolfe Memorial, the first documented gold find in the U.S., and the Battleship USS North Carolina. History buffs will be drawn to the state’s colonial heritage and its strong heritage that comes to life with interactive and time-honored memorials.

10. An Abundance of Professional Sports

No matter which sport you love, North Carolina has it. Home to a combination of 21 professional and minor league teams, North Carolina has a football team, minor league baseball teams, basketball, and hockey teams. The state also has major league lacrosse games – and all of that is before getting into college sports where there is a fierce following for several college teams.

Experience Leisure Care Independent Living in North Carolina

Raleigh Independent Living

Independent Living in Raleigh

MAKING THE MOVE

Although the cost of senior living may seem daunting at first, a second glance may reveal something different. When evaluating the cost of senior living first think through your current expenses because so much of senior living is all-inclusive. Consider how much of your income is spent monthly on food, utilities, healthcare, house maintenance, and homeownership costs. Once you have a good understanding of how much it costs to live on your own, you will have a more comprehensive understanding of the cost of senior living.

You will also want to think through what is included at the community you are considering. Many of our communities include a wide range of amenities including,

• Regular housekeeping and linen services
• True restaurant dining, with made to order meals
• Engaging activities and social events
• Home maintenance and yard work
• Gym memberships and fitness classes through PrimeFit
• Language lessons
• Travel opportunities
• Assisted living and memory care services, if needed
• Exactly how much your monthly rate is will depend on the care being received, amenities being used, and apartment style chosen.

The cost of senior living in North Carolina is fairly consistent across the state, coming in at $3250 per month for assisted living care, below than the national average.

YOUR DREAM RETIREMENT ON YOUR BUDGET

From traveling the world to exploring your own backyard, Leisure Care living is fun and easy. We offer independent living services at Treeo Raleigh in North Carolina. We will work closely with you and your family to create a lifestyle that meets care and budget needs while making the most of every day of retirement. Five-star fun. Five-star service. That’s our promise.

It’s your time to build your future. Contact us today to get started.