by Robert Borges on July 14, 2025
Thinking about retirement in North Carolina? Whether you're looking for a coastal retreat, a peaceful mountain escape, or vibrant city living, 55 and over communities in NC offer an ideal blend of lifestyle, amenities, and affordability for retirees and active adults.
Why Retire in North Carolina?
North Carolina is a retirement hotspot—and for good reason. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic shoreline, the Tar Heel State offers mild year-round weather, stunning natural beauty, and no tax on Social Security income.
Other benefits of retiring in North Carolina include:
- A lower-than-average cost of living
- Access to top-rated healthcare systems
- Outdoor recreation galore: hiking, boating, golfing, and beachcombing
- Culturally rich cities like Asheville, Raleigh, and Charlotte
- A wide variety of retirement communities in North Carolina tailored to different lifestyles and budgets
For those seeking life on the water, North Carolina’s coastal regions offer charming seaside towns and relaxed living, while urban hubs provide world-class dining, entertainment, and shopping.
What to Expect from 55+ Communities in North Carolina
55 communities in North Carolina are built to support the interests and lifestyles of active adults. Here’s what residents typically enjoy:
Resort-Style Amenities
- Clubhouses with social gathering spaces
- State-of-the-art fitness centers and wellness studios
- Indoor/outdoor pools, spas, and walking trails
- Tennis, pickleball, bocce, and golf courses
- Onsite dining
Social Opportunities
- Dozens of clubs and organized interest groups
- Wine tastings, day trips, music nights, and wellness workshops
- Community events that encourage friendships and connectivity
Real Estate Options
- Low-maintenance single-family homes
- Townhomes and attached villas
- New construction homes with energy-efficient features
- Gated neighborhoods with professional landscaping and security
Whether you're seeking mountain views, water access, or a neighborhood close to family, there’s a 55 plus North Carolina community to match your retirement vision.
Best 55+ Communities in North Carolina
Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular and well-rounded 55 and over communities in NC—each offering something unique for retirees and active adults:
Carolina Gardens by Del Webb- Fuquay-Varina, NC
Located just outside Raleigh in the Triangle region, this Del Webb community spans 400 acres with nearly 900 single-family homes. Carolina Gardens is age-restricted for 55+ residents and boasts a 20,500 sq. ft. clubhouse. Enjoy a full suite of amenities, including a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, craft studios, tennis, pickleball, bocce, and walking trails. Residents benefit from easy access to city conveniences while living in a peaceful, resort-style setting.
Cresswind Charlotte- Charlotte, NC
This thoughtfully designed 55+ community in Charlotte, NC offers all the advantages of being near Uptown without the congestion. Miles of scenic walking trails wind through the neighborhood, which centers around an 18,000 sq. ft. clubhouse. From fitness classes to indoor/outdoor pools, tennis, and hobby clubs, the community emphasizes wellness and connection. Whether you love nature, arts, or fitness, there’s always something happening at Cresswind.
Flowers Plantation- Clayton, NC
A top-tier option among retirement communities North Carolina has to offer, Flowers Plantation features multiple distinct neighborhoods across 3,000 gated acres. Residents enjoy a luxurious spa and wellness center, fitness facilities, pools, and hot tubs. Outside, discover walking/biking trails, a playground, sports field, and tennis courts—all just minutes from top-rated golf courses. Flowers Plantation is ideal for retirees looking for community and comfort near Raleigh.
Riverlights- Wilmington, NC
For those drawn to waterfront retirement communities, Riverlights in Wilmington blends coastal charm with modern living. This wellness-focused community offers a mix of luxury townhomes, custom single-family homes, and 55+ neighborhoods. Residents enjoy walking paths along the Cape Fear River, social events, and quick access to the vibrant city of Wilmington. Riverlights celebrates Southern hospitality, nature, and active living all in one.
Trilogy Lake Norman®- Denver, NC
Just 30 minutes from Charlotte, this master-planned 55 plus North Carolina community offers a resort-like experience with a small-town feel. The 30,000 sq. ft. Twin Mills Club is a hub for dining, entertainment, and fitness. Highlights include a demonstration kitchen, full-service restaurant, amphitheater, and event spaces. Outdoors, enjoy pickleball, scenic trails, and a sense of camaraderie that makes Trilogy Lake Norman a favorite among those seeking dynamic retirement living.
Final Thoughts: Find Your Ideal 55+ Community in North Carolina
With its mix of mild seasons, natural beauty, and thriving towns, North Carolina continues to attract retirees seeking both relaxation and recreation. The state is home to some of the nation’s best 55 communities, whether you're drawn to the coast, mountains, or vibrant metro areas.
For nearly 30 years, Private Communities Registry (PCR) has helped thousands of retirees find the best 55+ communities in North Carolina. Our comprehensive database features hundreds of lifestyle communities searchable by location, home price, amenities, and more.
Ready to find your perfect fit? Search 55 and over communities in NC by region, lifestyle, home type, or amenity—and connect directly with community representatives through PCR to take the guesswork out of your next chapter.
Related Resources for Retirees and Active Adults
When planning your move to a 55+ community, you may also be wondering:
- How much does it cost to join a country club?
- What to look for when buying a golf cart?
- Are beachfront retirement communities right for you?
At PCR, you can find answers to all these questions and more as you navigate your retirement journey.
About the Author
With over 20 years of experience as a seasoned content creator, Robert Borges is the senior writer for Private Communities Registry (PCR), specializing in real estate trends and master-planned communities. He works closely with builders, developers, and real estate pros to create helpful content that guides homebuyers in finding the perfect community, ensuring they have the information needed to make confident, informed decisions.
