Those who are interested in retiring in North Carolina should consider Raleigh, NC. Benefits for retirees in this city include affordable cost of living and tax benefits, mild climate with four distinct seasons, excellent healthcare, vibrant culture and recreational opportunities, strong sense of community and accessibility, and top senior living communities, such as TerraBella Northridge.
According to Axios, the population of people 65 and older in North Carolina grew by 15.1% between 2020 and 2024, which is higher than the nation’s increase of 13%. There’s a growing senior population in this state, and that’s not an accident.
We want to make the best of our golden years, and a lot of that has to do with where you live. And for many, retiring in North Carolina is the answer.
If you want to follow in their footsteps, then we’d highly recommend Raleigh, NC.
Is NC Friendly to Retirees?
Yes, North Carolina is friendly to retirees since there are affordable living costs. In addition, the state has a mild four-season climate and a variety of scenic settings, so the North Carolina retirement lifestyle is pretty pleasant.
If you want peaceful mountain towns, opt for Asheville or Boone. But for vibrant city life, cities like Charlotte or Raleigh are nice. Look to New Bern or Wilmington if you’re into relaxed coastal living.
What Is the Best City in North Carolina for Seniors?
One of the best places to retire in NC is Raleigh. Here are all the ways you can benefit from Raleigh senior living.
Affordable Cost of Living and Tax Benefits
Payscale shows that Raleigh, NC, has a cost of living that’s 3% lower than the national average. In addition, housing is 9% lower, utilities are 10% lower, and groceries are on par with the national average.
This makes Raleigh very attractive to seniors who want comfort without overspending.
One of the biggest financial advantages you can get here is no tax on Social Security benefits. Plus, income tax rates are flat and relatively low.
Those who own property (or plan to in the future) will also enjoy modest property taxes.
Mild Climate With Four Distinct Seasons
As we’ve said earlier, NC has a mild climate with four distinct seasons, and Raleigh is no exception.
The winters are generally mild, with occasional snow. Summers are warm, but they’re not as humid as they would be in coastal regions. You’ll get pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery in the spring and fall.
This makes it easy to stay active and engaged all year long.
Excellent Healthcare
One of Raleigh’s strongest advantages is access to high-quality healthcare. The city is part of North Carolina’s Research Triangle region, so it’s home to world-class hospitals like:
- Duke University Hospital
- UNC Health
- WakeMed Health & Hospitals
You’ll have access to advanced medical care and specialized senior health programs. There are top-rated physicians across various fields, too.
Vibrant Culture and Recreational Opportunities
You won’t have to slow down when you retire in Raleigh. There’s an impressive range of cultural and recreational amenities, such as museums and performing arts centers.
Nature lovers will enjoy:
- Neuse River Greenway Trail
- Pullen Park
- Umstead State Park
As you can see, there’s something for seniors of all personalities and preferences in Raleigh.
Strong Sense of Community and Accessibility
There’s a welcoming atmosphere and strong community spirit in Raleigh. So even if you’re moving somewhere completely new, you won’t find it hard to build new friendships and feel at home in no time.
The neighborhoods are safe and walkable, so there are ample opportunities for social engagement. The city also often hosts:
- Festivals
- Farmers markets
- Community events
You’re also in close proximity to other major cities in the Triangle, such as Durham and Chapel Hill. This makes it easy to access additional amenities and cultural experiences.
Top Senior Living Communities
Whether you need assisted living in Raleigh or you’re looking for memory care in North Carolina, Raleigh is the city you need to be in if you’re retiring in this state. This is because TerraBella Northridge is nestled in this city, and we have three senior living options: assisted living, transitional memory care, and memory care.
We have exclusive programs offered at our community, enabling our residents to live their retirements to the fullest. Also, you’ll benefit from private apartments that you can decorate as your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Money Do You Need to Retire Comfortably in North Carolina?
The amount of money you need to retire comfortably in NC will depend on several personal factors, such as your lifestyle and healthcare needs. The city you’re in matters a lot, too.
However, most retirees should be able to live comfortably with $55,000 to $70,000 a year ($4,583.33 to $5,833.33 a month). This is thanks to the state’s relatively low cost of living.
Where to Live in NC to Avoid Hurricanes?
To avoid hurricanes in NC, it’s best to live inland and away from the Atlantic coast. For example, you can consider the mountains and Piedmont regions, which experience far fewer storm impacts.
Raleigh, NC, does get hurricanes, but do note that the city rarely experiences the full force of tropical systems. It also has a higher elevation, making it a safe and stable choice.
Is North Carolina a Democratic or Republican State?
North Carolina has historically been a swing state, which means it’s pretty politically mixed. In general, the state’s mostly voted Republican in presidential elections, but urban areas have strong Democratic support, such as Raleigh. On the other hand, much of eastern and western NC is more conservative and tends to vote Republican.
Retiring in North Carolina Can Be Wonderful
Retiring in North Carolina can be a wonderful choice, especially if you pick Raleigh. This city has an affordable cost of living, nice weather, and lots to do that’s senior-friendly.
And the most important part is that TerraBella Northridge is here, which gives you fantastic access to quality senior living. So if you retire here, you’ll be set for the rest of your golden years!
At TerraBella Northridge, we offer our residents a maintenance-free lifestyle with 24/7 access to our staff members so they receive prompt care whenever needed. Get in touch with us today if you’re interested in senior living in Raleigh, NC.
